Tanzania Visa for US Citizens: Cost, Requirements and How to

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Tanzania Visa for US Citizens: A Complete Guide

Yes, US citizens need a visa to enter Tanzania. If you’re an American planning a safari, beach holiday in Zanzibar or a mix of both, you’ll need to apply for the Multiple Entry Visa before you travel. It costs US$100, can be valid for up to one year and allows stays of up to 90 days per visit.
The easiest and most reliable way to get your visa is through Tanzania’s official e-Visa system. In this guide, we’ll walk you through exactly what US travelers need to know: the cost, how to apply, which documents to prepare, how long approval takes and the common mistakes to avoid.

Do US citizens need a visa for Tanzania?

Yes. All US passport holders need a visa to enter Tanzania for tourism.

While many nationalities can get a simple single-entry visa for US$50, Americans are required to apply for the Multiple Entry Visa. This visa costs US$100, is valid for up to 12 months and lets you stay in Tanzania for up to 90 days at a time.
Visa rules can change, so it’s always a good idea to check the official Tanzania Immigration e-Visa portal for the latest information before you apply.

How much is the Tanzania visa for Americans?
The Tanzania visa fee for US citizens is US$100 for the Multiple Entry Visa.

This visa can be valid for up to one year, and you can stay in Tanzania for up to 90 days per visit. The multiple-entry option is especially handy if you plan to hop over to Kenya or Uganda and come back to Tanzania during your trip.
Fees and requirements can change, so double-check the current amount on the official Tanzania Immigration website before you pay.

How do I apply for the Tanzania e-Visa?

US citizens must apply online through Tanzania’s official e-Visa portal at https://visa.immigration.go.tz

Here’s the step-by-step process:

Go to the official Tanzania Immigration e-Visa website.
Create an account and start a new application.
Fill in your passport and personal details exactly as they appear in your passport.
Enter your travel plans, including your expected arrival date and first destination in Tanzania.
Upload the required documents: a copy of your passport bio page, a recent passport-size photo, proof of your return or onward ticket and your accommodation details.
Pay the US$100 visa fee online.
Submit your application and wait for approval. Tanzania Immigration recommends applying at least 10 days before your travel date.
Once approved, download and print your visa grant notice. Carry this with you when you travel.

Stick to the official website. Third-party visa sites often charge extra service fees on top of the government fee.
Give yourself enough time. Apply at least 10 days before your trip to allow for processing.

Can I get a visa on arrival for Tanzania?

No. Tanzania stopped offering visas on arrival on 30 January 2025. Everyone, including US citizens, must now apply for an e-Visa before traveling.

Even if you’re only entering Tanzania once, US travelers still need to apply for the Multiple Entry Visa.

The Tanzania Immigration Department strongly recommends applying online in advance. That way, you’ll have your visa approval in hand before you fly and won’t have to worry about anything at the airport.

Once your e-Visa is approved, print a copy of your visa grant notice and keep it with your travel documents.

Do I need a separate visa for Zanzibar?

No. You don’t need a separate visa for Zanzibar if you already have a valid Tanzania visa.

Zanzibar is part of Tanzania, so your Tanzania visa covers both the mainland and the islands. When filling out your application, just list your first point of entry—whether that’s Dar es Salaam, Kilimanjaro or Zanzibar itself.

Planning a beach extension? Check out our Zanzibar Travel Guide 2026 for tips on the best beaches, activities, places to stay and things to do.

What documents do I need to enter Tanzania?

As a US citizen, make sure you have the following ready before you travel:
Passport: Your passport must be valid for at least six months from your date of entry and have at least one blank page for immigration stamps.

Return or onward ticket: Immigration officers may ask to see proof that you plan to leave Tanzania, such as a return flight or onward travel ticket.

Proof of accommodation: Carry confirmation of where you’ll be staying—this could be a hotel booking, lodge reservation or details from your safari operator.

Visa grant notice: If you applied online, bring a printed copy of your approved e-Visa (your visa grant notice). It’s also smart to save a digital copy on your phone.

Yellow fever certificate: You may need to show a yellow fever vaccination certificate if you’re arriving from, or have recently traveled through, a country where yellow fever is present.
Always check the latest health and entry requirements before you go, especially if your trip includes stops in other African countries.

Security Bond (if applicable): Some Multiple Visa applications may require a Security Bond form. You can download this from the Tanzania Immigration website under the Downloads section.

How long does Tanzania e-Visa approval take?

Processing times can vary, but most applicants receive a decision within several business days. Tanzania Immigration advises applying at least 10 days before your expected travel date to allow enough time for processing and any follow-up.

Apply as early as your travel plans allow, especially during peak safari seasons and holiday periods when application volumes are higher.

Common Tanzania visa mistakes to avoid

Using an unofficial visa website: Only use the official Tanzania Immigration e-Visa portal at visa.immigration.go.tz. Other sites may look similar but often charge extra fees.

Applying too late: Don’t wait until the last minute. Apply at least 10 days before your trip to give yourself enough time for processing.

Entering incorrect passport details: Double-check your passport number, name, date of birth and travel information before submitting. Even small errors can cause delays or problems at immigration.

Forgetting your visa grant notice: Bring a printed copy of your approved visa with you. Keep a backup on your phone just in case.

Ignoring health requirements: Find out if you need a yellow fever certificate based on your travel route. Requirements can vary depending on which countries you visit before Tanzania.

Relying on visa on arrival: Visa on arrival no longer exists in Tanzania. Everyone must apply for an e-Visa in advance.

Ready to plan your Tanzania trip?

Once your visa is sorted, you’re ready to focus on the fun part—planning your adventure.

Check out our guides on the best time to go on safari in Tanzania, what to wear on a Tanzania safari and how much it costs to climb Mount Kilimanjaro to start building your itinerary.

Visa requirements, fees and immigration rules can change. Always confirm the latest details on the official Tanzania Immigration e-Visa portal at https://visa.immigration.go.tz
before you travel.

FAQ

Do US citizens need a visa for Tanzania?

Yes. All U.S. passport holders need a visa to enter Tanzania for tourism. U.S. citizens must apply for the Multiple Entry Visa through the official Tanzania e‑Visa system before traveling.

How much does the Tanzania visa cost for US citizens?

The Tanzania visa fee for U.S. citizens is US$100 for the Multiple Entry Visa. Confirm the current amount on the official Tanzania Immigration e‑Visa portal before you pay, since fees can change.

How long can US citizens stay in Tanzania on the e‑Visa?

You can stay up to 90 days per visit. The Multiple Entry Visa for U.S. citizens is typically valid for up to two years, allowing multiple trips in and out of Tanzania during that period (for example, if you visit Kenya or Uganda during your trip).

Can US citizens get a Tanzania visa on arrival?

In practice, U.S. citizens are strongly advised to obtain an e‑Visa before traveling. While some older guidance mentions visas on arrival, rules can change and airlines may require an approved e‑Visa before boarding. Always check the latest entry requirements on the official Tanzania Immigration website and with your airline.

Do I need a separate visa for Zanzibar?

No. Zanzibar is part of Tanzania, so your Tanzania visa covers both the mainland and the islands. On your application, list your first point of entry, whether that is Dar es Salaam, Kilimanjaro or Zanzibar.

How early should I apply for my Tanzania e‑Visa?

Apply at least 10 days before your travel date. Most applicants receive a decision within several business days, but applying earlier is safer during peak safari seasons and holiday periods.

Where do I apply for the Tanzania e‑Visa?

Only use the official Tanzania Immigration e‑Visa portal at visa.immigration.go.tz. Third‑party visa sites often charge extra service fees on top of the government fee. The official portal is hosted by Tanzania Immigration (look for the .go.tz domain and “Immigration Services Department” branding).

What documents do I need to enter Tanzania?

You need:
-A passport valid for at least six months with at least one blank visa page
-A printed copy of your approved visa grant notice (e‑Visa)
-Proof of return or onward travel
-Accommodation details (hotel booking or host address)
-A yellow fever vaccination certificate if you are arriving from or transiting through a yellow‑fever‑risk country
-In some cases, additional forms such as a Security Bond, if requested on the e‑Visa portal

Do I need to print my e‑Visa?

Yes. Print your visa grant notice and carry it with your travel documents. It is also smart to keep a digital copy on your phone as a backup.

Do I need a yellow fever certificate to enter Tanzania?

You may need one if you are arriving from, or have recently traveled through, a country where yellow fever is present. Check the latest health and entry requirements before you go, especially if your trip includes stops in other African countries.