Understanding the processing time and fees for a Tanzania eVisa is crucial for planning your trip. You need to know how long it takes to get approved, how much it costs, and what payment methods are accepted. This guide provides complete details on Tanzania eVisa processing times, all associated fees, and tips to avoid delays.
Tanzania eVisa Processing Time
The standard processing time for a Tanzania eVisa is 10 business days from the date of submission. However, several factors can affect this timeline:
Standard processing: 10 business days
This is the official timeframe stated by the Tanzania Immigration Services. Most applications are processed within this period.
Peak season delays:
During busy travel periods, processing may take longer. Peak seasons include:
- June to October (dry season, safari high season)
- December to January (holiday season)
- February to March (calving season in Serengeti)
Referral visa processing: Up to 2 months
If you are from a country in the referral category (Afghanistan, Bangladesh, Iran, Iraq, Nigeria, Pakistan, Somalia, Syria, Yemen, etc.), your application requires additional review and can take up to two months.
Factors that delay processing:
- Incomplete applications or missing documents
- Blurry or illegible uploaded documents
- Incorrect personal information
- High volume of applications
- Additional security checks
- Holidays or government office closures
How to Track Your eVisa Processing Status
You can monitor your application status at any time:
- Go to visa.immigration.go.tz
- Log in with your email and password
- Use your Application Identification Number
- View the current status of your application
Status meanings:
- Submitted: Your application has been received
- Under Review: Immigration officers are reviewing your application
- Approved: Your visa has been granted
- Rejected: Your application has been denied (reason provided)
You will also receive email notifications at the email address used during application.
What to Do If Processing Is Delayed
If your application has not been processed within 10 business days:
- Log in to the portal to check for updates
- Check your email spam folder for notifications
- Contact Immigration Services at [email protected]
- Call the contact numbers listed on the Immigration website
- Download your Visa Grant Notice from visa.immigration.go.tz/checkapplicationstatus if it has been approved but you missed the email
For referral visa applicants, delays are normal. Apply at least 2 months before your travel date.
Tanzania eVisa Fees
The Tanzania Immigration Services charges the following fees for eVisa applications:
| Visa Type | Fee (USD) | Validity | Entry Type |
|---|---|---|---|
| Ordinary Visa | $50 | Up to 90 days | Single entry |
| Multiple Entry Visa | $100 | 1 year | Multiple entries |
| Business Visa | $250 | Up to 90 days | Single entry |
| Transit Visa | $30 | Up to 7 days | Single entry |
| Student Visa (Single) | $50 | 3 months | Single entry |
| Student Visa (Multiple) | $250 | 1 year | Multiple entries |
Important: US passport holders must apply for the Multiple Entry Visa at USD 100. They cannot use the Ordinary Visa option.
Payment Methods
eVisa fees are paid online during the application process. Accepted payment methods:
- Visa Card (credit or debit)
- Mastercard (credit or debit)
No other payment methods are accepted for online eVisa applications. This includes:
- No PayPal
- No bank transfers
- No mobile money
- No cash for online applications
Tips for successful payment:
- Ensure your card is enabled for international transactions
- Check that your card has sufficient funds or credit
- Use a card issued in your name
- If payment fails, try a different card or contact your bank
- Some banks may block international transactions as a security measure; notify your bank before making the payment
Additional Costs to Consider
Beyond the visa fee, factor in these potential costs:
Passport renewal:
If your passport expires within 6 months of your travel date, you need to renew it. Costs vary by country (USD 100-200+ for most nationalities).
Passport photos:
You need a digital passport photo for the application. If you do not have one, getting passport photos taken costs USD 5-15 at most photo shops.
Document scanning:
If you need to scan your passport bio page, costs at print shops are typically USD 1-5. Most smartphones can also take acceptable scans.
Yellow Fever vaccination:
If required based on your travel history, a Yellow Fever vaccination costs USD 50-150 depending on your location.
Travel insurance:
While not a visa requirement, travel insurance is strongly recommended. Costs vary based on coverage and duration.
Visa on Arrival Fees
If you choose to get your visa on arrival instead of applying online, the fees are the same:
| Visa Type | Fee (USD) |
|---|---|
| Ordinary Visa | $50 |
| Multiple Entry | $100 |
| Business Visa | $250 |
| Transit Visa | $30 |
Payment at the airport:
- Cash in USD is widely accepted
- Card payments may be available but are not guaranteed at all entry points
- Carry clean, newer USD bills
- Have the exact amount if possible
Fee Exemptions
Certain travelers do not pay visa fees:
- Citizens of visa-exempt countries (EAC members, select SADC and Commonwealth nations)
- Holders of diplomatic or official passports on government business
- Gratis visa holders (by invitation of the Tanzanian government)
- Children under 2 years (at some entry points, policies vary)
Refund Policy
Visa fees are generally non-refundable. If your application is rejected, you will not receive a refund of the visa fee. This is why it is important to:
- Ensure all information is correct before submitting
- Upload clear, complete documents
- Select the correct visa type
- Apply well in advance of your travel date
Cost Comparison: eVisa vs Visa on Arrival
The visa fee is identical for both methods. The total cost difference comes from:
eVisa total cost:
- Visa fee: $50-$250 (depending on type)
- No additional fees at the airport
- Potential bank fee for international card transaction
Visa on arrival total cost:
- Visa fee: $50-$250 (depending on type)
- Potential ATM fees at the airport if you need cash
- Potential currency exchange markup if converting to USD
In most cases, the eVisa is slightly more cost-effective since you pay directly by card without needing to carry or exchange cash.
Processing Time by Visa Type
| Visa Type | Standard Processing | Peak Season | Referral |
|---|---|---|---|
| Ordinary | 10 business days | 12-15 business days | N/A |
| Multiple Entry | 10 business days | 12-15 business days | N/A |
| Business | 10 business days | 12-15 business days | N/A |
| Transit | 10 business days | 12-15 business days | N/A |
| Student | 10 business days | 12-15 business days | N/A |
| Referral | 10 business days | Up to 2 months | Up to 2 months |
Tips to Speed Up Your Application
- Apply early: Submit your application at least 3 weeks before travel
- Complete all fields: Do not leave any required field blank
- Upload clear documents: Blurry or illegible documents cause delays
- Use correct photo format: Color photo, plain background, proper dimensions
- Double-check information: Ensure all details match your passport
- Check email regularly: Respond promptly to any requests from Immigration
- Use a reliable internet connection: Avoid submitting during connection issues
- Keep your Application ID: You need it to track your status
What Happens After Approval
Once your eVisa is approved:
- You receive an email with your Visa Grant Notice
- Download and print the Visa Grant Notice (PDF)
- Carry the printed notice with your passport
- Present both at the immigration counter upon arrival
- The officer verifies your details and stamps your passport
- You are cleared to enter Tanzania
The Visa Grant Notice is valid for entry at the five main entry points. If you need to enter through a different point, you may need a visa on arrival.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does it take to get a Tanzania eVisa approved?
Standard processing is 10 business days. During peak seasons, it may take 12-15 business days. Referral visas can take up to 2 months. Apply at least 3 weeks before your trip.
How much does a Tanzania eVisa cost?
Ordinary Visa is USD 50, Multiple Entry is USD 100, Business Visa is USD 250, and Transit Visa is USD 30. US citizens must pay USD 100 for the Multiple Entry Visa.
Can I pay for my Tanzania eVisa with PayPal?
No. Only Visa and Mastercard are accepted for online eVisa payments. Ensure your card is enabled for international transactions.
Is the visa fee refundable if my application is denied?
No. Visa fees are non-refundable, even if your application is rejected. Ensure all information and documents are correct before submitting.
Do I need to pay extra fees at the airport with an eVisa?
No. With an approved eVisa, there are no additional fees at the airport. You simply present your Visa Grant Notice and passport.
What currency should I use for visa on arrival payment?
USD is the preferred currency for visa on arrival payments. Carry clean, newer bills. Card payments may be available but are not guaranteed.
