Planning a trip to Tanzania from the United States? Whether you’re dreaming of a Serengeti safari, climbing Mount Kilimanjaro, exploring the Ngorongoro Crater, or relaxing on Zanzibar’s beaches, understanding Tanzania’s visa requirements should be one of the first things on your travel checklist.
For American travelers, Tanzania has a specific visa rule that is especially important to understand: U.S. passport holders visiting Tanzania for tourism are required to apply for a Multiple Entry Visa, even if they only plan to visit Tanzania once.
The current fee for the Tanzania Multiple Entry Visa is US$100, and the visa may be valid for up to one year. However, the maximum continuous stay during any individual visit is generally 90 days.
Tanzania offers both online visa applications and visa-on-arrival facilities for eligible nationalities, including U.S. citizens. However, Tanzania Immigration recommends applying online before traveling.
This guide explains everything American travelers need to know about the Tanzania visa for U.S. citizens, including the cost, application process, passport requirements, processing time, visa on arrival, Zanzibar, Kenya-to-Tanzania trips, and common mistakes to avoid.
Do Americans Need a Visa for Tanzania?
Yes.
U.S. citizens traveling to Tanzania for tourism need a visa.
However, Americans have a special visa category.
Tanzania Immigration states that U.S. passport holders traveling for tourism must apply for a Multiple Entry Visa rather than the ordinary single-entry tourist visa.
This applies even if you’re planning a straightforward vacation with only one entry into Tanzania.
For example, an American traveling:
United States → Arusha → Serengeti → Ngorongoro → Zanzibar → United States
would still apply for the Multiple Entry Visa because of the special requirement for U.S. passport holders.
How Much Is a Tanzania Visa for U.S. Citizens?
The current Tanzania visa fee for American tourists is:
US$100 for the Multiple Entry Visa.
Tanzania’s official visa guidelines list the Multiple Entry Visa at $100.
For comparison, the ordinary single-entry visa is listed at $50, but U.S. passport holders traveling for tourism are not supposed to apply for that ordinary tourist visa.
This is one of the most important details for Americans planning a Tanzania trip.
Tanzania Visa Fees at a Glance
| Visa type | Current fee | Typical validity |
|---|---|---|
| Ordinary Visa | $50 | Up to 90 days |
| Multiple Entry Visa for Americans | $100 | Up to 12 months |
| Transit Visa | $30 | Up to 7 days |
| Business Visa | $250 | Up to 90 days |
The exact visa category and fee depend on the purpose of travel. Always check Tanzania Immigration’s current requirements before submitting an application.
Why Do Americans Need a Multiple Entry Visa?
Tanzania’s immigration rules specifically require U.S. nationals traveling for tourism to use the Multiple Entry Visa.
The official guidelines explain that this requirement is based on bilateral arrangements between Tanzania and the United States.
That means an American tourist should not choose the $50 ordinary tourist visa simply because they plan to enter Tanzania only once.
Instead, select the Multiple Entry Visa category.
How Long Is the Tanzania Multiple Entry Visa Valid for Americans?
The Multiple Entry Visa may be issued with a maximum validity of 12 months.
However, this does not mean you can remain in Tanzania for an entire year continuously.
Tanzania Immigration states that the maximum consecutive stay is three months, or 90 days, per visit.
This distinction is important.
A one-year visa validity is not the same as permission to live in Tanzania for one continuous year.
Can Americans Get a Tanzania Visa Online?
Yes.
Tanzania has an official online visa application system.
The official portal allows travelers to complete the application, upload supporting documents, pay the applicable fee, submit the application, and track its status online.
For most American tourists, applying online before departure is the simplest approach.
Use the official Tanzania eVisa system:
Official Tanzania Electronic Visa Application System
Can Americans Get a Tanzania Visa on Arrival?
Yes.
U.S. citizens are currently listed among the nationalities eligible for Tanzania’s visa-on-arrival facility.
However, Tanzania Immigration recommends applying online before traveling.
That’s an important distinction.
Visa on arrival may be available, but that doesn’t necessarily mean it is the best option for your trip.
Applying before departure gives you the opportunity to have your documentation reviewed and your visa approval in hand before you begin your international journey.
Should Americans Apply Online or Get a Visa on Arrival?
For most travelers, applying online in advance is the better option.
There are several reasons.
You Know Your Visa Is Being Processed
You don’t have to wait until arrival to begin the visa process.
You Can Prepare Your Documents at Home
It’s easier to correct missing information or documents while you’re still in the United States.
You Can Reduce Arrival Uncertainty
After a long international flight, most travelers would rather proceed through immigration than spend additional time completing visa procedures.
Tanzania Recommends Online Applications
Tanzania Immigration specifically recommends using the online application platform.
For these reasons, an American traveler planning a safari should generally apply online rather than relying on visa on arrival.
How Do Americans Apply for a Tanzania Visa?
The Tanzania eVisa application is completed online.
The basic process is:
Step 1: Visit the Official Tanzania Visa Website
Start with the official Tanzania Immigration visa portal.
Tanzania Official eVisa Portal
Avoid unofficial websites that appear to be government portals but add unnecessary service charges.
Step 2: Start a New Application
You’ll provide basic information such as your email address and passport information to begin the application.
The official portal generates an application ID that you can use to track your application.
Step 3: Select the Correct Visa Type
This is particularly important for Americans.
For tourism, U.S. passport holders should select the Multiple Entry Visa.
Do not select the ordinary tourist visa simply because you’re making one trip.
Step 4: Complete the Application
Enter your personal and travel information carefully.
Make sure your information matches your passport.
Step 5: Upload Required Documents
You’ll be asked to provide supporting documents, including a copy of your passport and other required materials.
Step 6: Pay the Visa Fee
The Multiple Entry Visa for American tourists is currently $100.
Step 7: Submit the Application
Once you’ve reviewed your information, submit the application.
Tanzania’s online system does not allow changes after submission, so check everything carefully first.
Step 8: Track Your Application
You can track your application online using your application identification number.
Tanzania Immigration also sends visa notifications to the email address provided during the application.
How Long Does a Tanzania Visa Take?
Tanzania Immigration states that online visa applications are generally processed within 10 days, except for applications that fall under referral categories.
Because processing can take time, don’t wait until the day before your flight.
Tanzania’s terms and conditions advise applicants to lodge visa applications 10 days before their expected travel date.
For a safari vacation, applying even earlier is a sensible strategy.
When Should Americans Apply for a Tanzania Visa?
Apply well before your departure date.
A practical approach is to apply several weeks before your trip once you have your major travel arrangements organized.
This gives you time to deal with:
- Missing documents
- Application errors
- Additional questions
- Processing delays
- Changes to your itinerary
Don’t make your visa application the final task before your flight.
What Documents Do Americans Need for a Tanzania Visa?
Tanzania’s official visa guidelines currently require several basic documents for tourist visa applications.
For an American tourist applying for the Multiple Entry Visa, prepare:
- Valid U.S. passport
- Recent passport-size photograph
- Copy of the passport biographical information page
- Return or onward ticket
- Completed visa application
- Applicable $100 visa fee
Additional documentation may be requested depending on the circumstances of your trip.
How Long Must Your Passport Be Valid for Tanzania?
Your passport should have at least six months of validity remaining when applying for the Tanzania visa.
It should also have at least one unused visa page.
Check your passport well before your trip.
If your passport is close to expiration, consider renewing it before making nonrefundable travel arrangements.
Do You Need a Return Ticket for Tanzania?
Yes.
Tanzania’s official visa guidance states that visitors must show a return ticket upon arrival.
Make sure you have proof of your onward or return travel available.
This is especially important if you’re combining Tanzania with Kenya or another destination.
Do Children Need a Tanzania Visa?
Yes.
Tanzania Immigration states that every passport holder must have their own visa application submitted.
This includes minors.
Even if a child is included in a parent’s application information, a separate visa application is required for each passport holder.
Families should therefore make sure every traveler has the correct visa before departure.
Does the Tanzania Visa Cover Zanzibar?
Yes.
You do not need a separate Tanzania tourist visa simply because your itinerary includes Zanzibar.
Tanzania’s official visa guidelines state that travelers visiting both Tanzania Mainland and Zanzibar can select their first destination on the application and then visit both locations without obtaining a new visa.
For example:
USA → Arusha → Serengeti → Zanzibar → USA
can be covered under the appropriate Tanzania visa.
This makes planning a Tanzania safari followed by a Zanzibar beach vacation relatively straightforward from a visa perspective.
Do Americans Need a Separate Visa for Zanzibar?
No separate Tanzania tourist visa is required simply because you are traveling to Zanzibar.
Zanzibar is part of the United Republic of Tanzania, and the Tanzania visa covers travel to both Mainland Tanzania and Zanzibar under the applicable conditions.
However, travelers should still check any additional Zanzibar-specific entry, health, insurance, or local requirements before traveling.
What If You’re Traveling From Kenya to Tanzania?
A common East Africa itinerary is:
USA → Kenya → Tanzania → Zanzibar → USA
This is an excellent way to combine two major safari destinations.
Your Kenya travel authorization and Tanzania visa are separate.
An authorization to enter Kenya does not automatically authorize entry into Tanzania.
Likewise, your Tanzania visa doesn’t replace Kenya’s entry requirements.
If you’re planning this type of trip, read Kenya Tanzania Zanzibar Visa: What Americans Need for an East Africa Trip.
You should also review Kenya eTA for Americans before your trip.
What If You Enter Tanzania, Visit Kenya, and Return to Tanzania?
This is one reason the Multiple Entry Visa is particularly relevant to American travelers.
The Tanzania Multiple Entry Visa is designed to allow multiple entries during its validity period, subject to the applicable conditions and maximum stay rules.
For example:
Tanzania → Kenya → Tanzania
may be possible under the Multiple Entry Visa.
However, your exact itinerary and entry circumstances matter, so confirm the current rules before traveling.
Tanzania Visa for Americans Visiting the Serengeti
If your primary reason for visiting Tanzania is a safari, you still need the appropriate tourist visa.
Your safari itinerary might include:
- Arusha
- Tarangire National Park
- Lake Manyara
- Ngorongoro Conservation Area
- Serengeti National Park
The visa requirement applies regardless of which safari destination you’re visiting.
Tanzania Visa for Americans Visiting Kilimanjaro
If you’re traveling to Tanzania to climb Mount Kilimanjaro as a tourist, you need the appropriate entry authorization.
The same applies whether your trip combines Kilimanjaro with a safari or Zanzibar.
A popular itinerary might look like:
USA → Arusha → Kilimanjaro → Serengeti → Zanzibar → USA
Make sure your visa and passport documentation are organized before beginning the journey.
Tanzania Visa for Americans Visiting Zanzibar Only
You still need the appropriate Tanzania visa if you’re entering Tanzania for tourism.
For example:
USA → Zanzibar → USA
is still a trip to Tanzania.
You don’t need a separate “Zanzibar visa” simply because Zanzibar is your only destination.
Can You Apply for a Tanzania eVisa From the United States?
Yes.
The online Tanzania visa system is designed for travelers applying before their trip.
You can start the application through the official portal and submit your supporting documentation electronically.
Is Tanzania’s eVisa the Same as a Visa on Arrival?
No.
They are two different ways of obtaining the visa.
eVisa
You apply online before traveling and wait for approval.
Visa on Arrival
You complete the visa process after arriving at an eligible Tanzanian entry point.
U.S. citizens are currently eligible for the visa-on-arrival facility, but Tanzania recommends applying online in advance.
Can You Board Your Flight Without an Approved Tanzania eVisa?
If you’ve chosen to apply online, don’t assume that submitting an application is the same as having an approved visa.
Tanzania’s official terms state that applicants should not arrive in Tanzania before their visa application has been approved.
Wait for your Visa Grant Notice before beginning the journey if you’ve applied online.
Does a Tanzania Visa Guarantee Entry?
No.
A Visa Grant Notice is not an absolute guarantee of admission.
Tanzania Immigration states that the immigration officer at the entry point has the final authority to determine whether the traveler meets the entry requirements.
You should therefore continue to carry:
- Valid passport
- Visa Grant Notice
- Return/onward ticket
- Accommodation information
- Relevant travel documents
Should You Print Your Tanzania Visa?
It’s a good idea to carry a printed copy of your Visa Grant Notice even if you also have it stored digitally.
Keep the document somewhere accessible during your journey.
A digital copy on your phone is useful, but a printed backup can be helpful if your phone battery dies or you have connectivity problems.
What If You Don’t Receive Your Tanzania Visa Email?
You can check the status of your application through Tanzania’s official visa portal.
The system allows applicants to track their application using their application ID and email information.
Don’t submit multiple applications simply because you haven’t received an email yet.
Tanzania’s official terms note that visa fees are non-refundable and that duplicate applications can create unnecessary complications.
Are Tanzania Visa Fees Refundable?
Generally, no.
Tanzania Immigration states that visa fees are prepaid, non-refundable, and non-transferable.
This can apply even if an application is rejected or a trip is canceled after approval.
For that reason, review your application carefully before submitting it.
What Are the Most Common Tanzania Visa Mistakes Americans Make?
Applying for the Wrong Visa
This is probably the most important mistake.
American tourists should apply for the Multiple Entry Visa, not the ordinary $50 tourist visa.
Waiting Until the Last Minute
Online applications can take up to 10 days under the official processing guidance.
Apply early.
Using an Unofficial Website
Use Tanzania Immigration’s official visa portal.
Entering Incorrect Passport Information
Check every letter and number before submitting.
Assuming Zanzibar Requires a Separate Visa
Your Tanzania visa covers Mainland Tanzania and Zanzibar under the applicable conditions.
Forgetting the Return Ticket
Tanzania requires visitors to show proof of return travel upon arrival.
Assuming a Visa Guarantees Entry
Final entry decisions are made by immigration authorities at the border.
Tanzania Visa Checklist for American Travelers
Before leaving the United States, make sure you have:
☐ Valid U.S. passport
☐ At least six months of passport validity
☐ At least one blank visa page
☐ Recent passport photograph
☐ Passport biographical page copy
☐ Return or onward ticket
☐ Completed Tanzania visa application
☐ $100 Multiple Entry Visa fee
☐ Tanzania Visa Grant Notice
☐ Printed or downloaded copy of your visa
☐ Hotel/lodge information
☐ Safari booking information
☐ Kenya eTA if entering Kenya during the same trip
☐ Any additional documents required for your itinerary
Tanzania Visa for Americans: Example Safari Itinerary
Suppose you’re planning a 10-day trip:
Day 1
Fly from the United States.
Day 2
Arrive in Arusha.
Days 3–4
Tarangire and surrounding safari areas.
Days 5–7
Serengeti National Park.
Day 8
Ngorongoro.
Days 9–10
Fly to Zanzibar and relax before returning home.
Your Tanzania Multiple Entry Visa is the appropriate tourist visa for your U.S. passport.
You don’t need a separate visa simply because the itinerary includes Zanzibar.
Tanzania Visa for Americans Traveling to Kenya and Zanzibar
If you want to combine Kenya, Tanzania, and Zanzibar, your visa planning becomes slightly more important.
A common itinerary could be:
USA → Nairobi → Masai Mara → Serengeti → Ngorongoro → Zanzibar → USA
You’ll need to satisfy Kenya’s entry requirements and Tanzania’s visa requirements separately.
For the Kenya portion, read Kenya Travel Requirements for US Citizens: eTA, Passport & Entry Guide.
For the complete multi-country visa picture, see Kenya Tanzania Zanzibar Visa: What Americans Need for an East Africa Trip.
Tanzania Visa and Your Safari Budget
The $100 Tanzania visa should be included in your overall travel budget.
It is relatively small compared with the cost of international flights, safari accommodation, park fees, and transportation, but it is still an important pre-trip expense.
For a broader look at costs, read How Much Does a Tanzania Safari Cost?.
If you’re comparing a Kenya and Tanzania vacation, you may also want to read How Much Does a 2-Week Kenya & Tanzania Trip Cost?.
Final Thoughts: Tanzania Visa for Americans
For American travelers, Tanzania’s visa rules are relatively straightforward once you know the key requirement:
U.S. passport holders visiting Tanzania for tourism must apply for the Multiple Entry Visa.
The current fee is $100, and the visa may be valid for up to 12 months, although each individual stay is generally limited to a maximum of 90 consecutive days.
Americans can currently obtain the visa online or use the visa-on-arrival facility, but Tanzania Immigration recommends applying online before traveling.
For most travelers, applying online is the better choice because it gives you time to organize your documents and receive approval before boarding your flight.
If your trip includes Zanzibar, you don’t need a separate Tanzania tourist visa simply to visit the island.
And if you’re combining Kenya and Tanzania, remember that each country has its own entry requirements.
Before you travel, always check the official Tanzania Immigration system for the latest requirements because visa rules, fees, and procedures can change.
For your wider East Africa planning, continue with The First-Time Traveler’s Guide to East Africa: Kenya, Tanzania & Zanzibar.
If Kenya is part of your trip, read Kenya eTA for Americans and Kenya Travel Requirements for US Citizens: eTA, Passport & Entry Guide before departure.
Once your passport, visa, flights, and safari are organized, you can focus on what really matters: experiencing Tanzania’s incredible wildlife, landscapes, culture, and beaches.