When applying for a visa to attend an international conference or workshop in Tanzania, delegates typically need to provide the following information and documents:
1. Valid Passport: Your passport must be valid for at least six months from the date of entry into Tanzania.
2. Visa Application Form: Complete the visa application form, which can often be found on the Tanzanian embassy or consulate website in your country or through an online visa application portal. for more information, click here
3. Passport Photos: Two recent passport-sized photographs.
4. Letter of Invitation: An official invitation letter from the host organization of the conference or workshop in Tanzania. This letter should include details about the event, the dates, and the host organization's contact information.
5. Proof of Accommodation: Evidence of where you will be staying during your time in Tanzania, such as a hotel booking confirmation or a letter from the host organization if they are providing accommodation.
6. Travel Itinerary: Copies of your travel itinerary, including flight bookings and return tickets.
7. Proof of Sufficient Funds: Evidence that you have sufficient funds to cover your stay in Tanzania. This could be in the form of bank statements, sponsorship letters, or a letter from your employer.
8. Conference Registration: Proof of registration or confirmation of participation in the conference or workshop.
9. Visa Fee: Payment of the visa application fee. The amount and payment method can vary, so check the specific requirements of the Tanzanian embassy or consulate where you are applying.
10. Health Requirements: Depending on your country of origin, you might need to show proof of vaccinations, such as a Yellow Fever vaccination certificate.
11. Cover Letter: A personal cover letter stating the purpose of your visit and the details of the conference or workshop.
Additional Tips:
Check Specific Requirements: Visa requirements can vary slightly depending on your nationality and the specific Tanzanian consulate or embassy you are dealing with. Always check with the relevant consulate for the most accurate information.
Apply Early: Visa processing times can vary, so it is advisable to apply well in advance of your planned travel date.
Electronic Visa: Tanzania offers an eVisa service, which can be more convenient for many travelers. Check if you are eligible and consider applying online.
Types of Visas and Specific Regulations
Tanzania government issues various types of passports and other travel documents as provided for by the Tanzania Passports and other Travel documents Cap 42 of 2002 and its Regulations of 2004.
Ordinary (Single Entry) Visa
This visa is granted to foreign nationals for the purposes of visit, Leisure, Holiday, attending Conference as a participant, Humanitarian and charity activities, spouse visit and Family re-union, Health Treatment or any other purpose as may be determined by the issuing authority. Its validity is not exceeding three months for a single entry.
Purpose: Tourism, visiting family/friends, short-term business.
Validity: Up to 90 days.
Fee: Varies by nationality.
Entry Points: Can be obtained at embassies, consulates, online, or on arrival. Multiple Entry Visa
Purpose: Frequent travelers, businesspersons.
Validity: Typically 1 year.
Conditions: Each stay must not exceed 90 days.
Fee: Higher than single entry visa; varies by nationality. Business Visa
Purpose: Short-term business activities, conferences, workshops.
Validity: Up to 90 days.
Fee: Varies.
Conditions: Not for long-term employment.
Transit Visa
Purpose: Travelers passing through Tanzania to another destination.
Validity: Up to 7 days.
Fee: Nominal; varies by nationality.
Requirement: Proof of onward travel. Student Visa
Purpose: Students enrolled in Tanzanian educational institutions.
Validity: Duration of the course.
Conditions: Requires admission letter and other academic documentation. Research Visa
Purpose: For research activities.
Validity: As per research duration.
Conditions: Requires a research permit and approvals.
Gratis Visa
This visa may be issued for a single entry or multiple entries to a holder of diplomatic, services or official passport or Travel Document of recognized International Organization who is on official duty and their Dependents. It can be also issued to a holder of ordinary passport or Travel document as it may be directed by the Commissioner General of Immigration and Commissioner of Immigration Zanzibar.
TYPES OF VISA | VISA FEES IN USD | |
ORDINARY VISA | 50 | |
MULTIPLE ENTRY VISA | 100 | |
BUSINESS VISA | 250 | |
STUDENT VISA | 50 (Single 3 Months) | |
250 (Multiple 1 year) | ||
300(Research 6 Months-Multiple) | ||
550 (Phd Student 1 year-Multiple) | ||
TRANSIT VISA | 30 |
Tanzania Visa Online Application
Applicants of Visa are strongly advised to apply for Visa through the Official Tanzania Immigration Services Website (www.immigration.go.tz) ONLY and NOT through any other links;
Applicant must ensure that his/her passport has a validity of at least six months and at least one unused visa page while making application;
Applicant is expected to apply for a right category of visa. If the applicant is not sure about the type of visa he requires, he is advised to seek guidance through the e-mail info@visatanzania.go.tz
The Visa application will be processed within ten days, therefore applicants are strongly advised to observe the time frame while making their applications;
Any application of Visa wrongly applied or which lacks sufficient attachment, may be rejected;
Any applicant of Visa is assumed to have read and agreed to the terms and conditions stipulated in the Disclaimer. Therefore, applicant is required to read it carefully before making payment. The Disclaimer is available at the end of each application of Visa;
No refund will be made in respect of any rejected visa application;
The Tanzania Immigration Services Department may give or withhold reasons for rejection of Visa to the applicant;
Visa regulations and conditions may be subject to change at any time without prior notification to the applicants.
Applicants whose nationals fall under Referral Visa category are not advised to book flight tickets or make payments for any reservations in Tanzania before they get approval for their Visa. Applicants of Referral Visa are advised to apply at least two months before their date of travel.
Applicants are required to review the List of countries (from our website) which fall under Referral Visa from time to time as there might be some changes.
How to Apply for a Visa Online
Visit the Immigration Services Website (www.immigration.go.tz )
Click “e-services” button;
Select and click “e-Visa Application Form”;
Fill all required details in the form;
Upload and attach the applicant’s scanned relevant documents for the Visa;
Then, the applicant will receive an e-mail message containing User Identification Number (that may be used to track the application online);
After completion of filling an online visa application form, the applicant will have to pay for a for respective visa fee;
Upon successful payment, the applicant will submit his application;
Lastly, the applicant will receive a message of confirmation of his application being received.
Specific Regulations and Conditions
Health Regulations:
Yellow Fever Vaccination: Mandatory for travelers arriving from countries with a risk of yellow fever. A vaccination certificate may be required.
COVID-19 Regulations: May include proof of vaccination, negative test results, or quarantine requirements, subject to current health advisories.
Visa Extensions:
Tourist and business visas can be extended at the Immigration Headquarters in Dar es Salaam.
Applications for extension should be made before the visa expires.
Residence Permits:
Different classes for investors (Class A), employees (Class B), and other categories such as retirees and missionaries (Class C).
Validity and conditions vary based on the type of permit and specific circumstances.
Requires significant documentation including work contracts, proof of investment, etc.
Penalties for Non-Compliance
Overstaying: Overstaying a visa can result in fines, detention, or deportation.
Non-Compliance: Engaging in activities not permitted by the visa type (e.g., working on a tourist visa) can lead to penalties and visa cancellation.
Key Points of Contact
Tanzanian Immigration Department:
Website. https://visa.immigration.go.tz/
Offices in Dar es Salaam, Zanzibar, and various border points.
Embassies and Consulates:
Located in many countries worldwide, providing visa services and information.
List of Countries which their Nationals require Referral Visa.
Afghanistan
Azerbaijan
Bangladesh
Chad
Djibouti
Eritrea
Equatorial Guinea
Iran
Iraq
Kazakhstan Republic
Kyrgyz Republic (Kyrgyzstan)
Lebanon
Mali
Mauritania
Niger
Nigeria
Pakistan
Palestine
Senegal
Somalia
Sri Lanka
Somali land
Sierra Leone
Syria
Tajikistan
Turkmenistan
Uzbekistan
Yemen and
Stateless persons or persons with refugee status.
Applicants whose nationals fall under this category (Referral) are not advised to book flight tickets or make payments for any reservations in Tanzania before they get approval for their Visa. Applicants of Referral Visa are advised to apply at least two months before their date of travel.
Applicants or host Institutions are required to review the List of countries (from our website) which fall under Referral Visa from time to time as there might be some changes.
Requirement for Referral Cases
Applicants who fall under the Referral Visa category are advised, to firstly ask their host institutions to seek permission from the commissioner General of Immigration. Once the permission letter is granted, that is when the applicant can start applying online, and he/she should attach the permission letter as one of the attachments. The host institution’s covering letter must detail the purpose and duration of visit of the prospective visitor, and letter should be addressed to the Commissioner General of immigration, S.L.P 512, Dar es Salaam or Commissioner of immigration Zanzibar, S.L.P 1354, Zanzibar, as the case may be. Any prospective visitor whose nationality falls under the Referral Visa Category is required to attach the following attachments while making application:
Covering letter from a legally registered Institution/ Company if the visit is official or covering letter from an Individual who knows the applicant if the trip is personal, the letter must detail the purpose of visit and duration of stay of the prospective visitor;
Applicant Valid copy of Passport;
Applicant Passport size photo;
Copy of the host institution/Company registration documents, like Certificate of Incorporation, TIN, Business License, etc;
Copy of passport and Residence Permit if the host individual is a foreign national, or copy of passport or national ID if the host is a Tanzanian citizen;
Filled-in Security Bond (T.I.F 12)
Respective Visa fee
Note:
Refugees who hold Vienna Convention documents (Travel Documents) are also required to obtain referral visa prior to coming to Tanzania.
Stateless persons and Refugees who hold Vienna Convention documents are also required to obtain referral visa prior to coming to Tanzania.
NB:
Applicants whose nationals fall under referral visa category are advised to submit their applications Online at least 2 months before their travel date. Further, they are advised NOT to book flight tickets or make any reservations before they get their visa.
Visa Payment Method
An Applicant can make payment of visa fee online through one of the following methods:
By Visa card/By Master card; and
By wift transfer (i.e. depositing money directly into bank account at the bank counter).
After making fee payment, an Applicant will receive a notification that his payment has been received.
A VISITOR'S GUIDE AND OTHER TRAVEL INFORMATION ABOUT TANZANIA
Tanzania is located in East Africa, on the shores of the Indian Ocean. It is bordered by Kenya to the north and Mozambique to the south; and shares inland borders with Burundi, the Democratic Republic of Congo, Malawi, Rwanda, Uganda and Zambia.
One of the continent's most iconic safari destinations, Tanzania is a haven for those looking to immerse themselves in the wonder of the African bush. It is home to some of East Africa's most famous game reserves – including the Serengeti National Park and the Ngorongoro Conservation Area. Many visitors travel to Tanzania to see the annual Great Migration of wildebeest and zebra, but there are many other reasons to stay. From the idyllic beaches of Zanzibar to the peaks of Kilimanjaro and Mount Meru, this is a country with limitless potential for adventure.
Document checklist for Tanzania
Health Declaration: Vaccinations recommended for travel to Tanzania, including hepatitis A and typhoid. Zika virus is also a risk, and as such pregnant women or those that are trying to conceive should consult a doctor before planning a trip to Tanzania. Depending on where you're going, anti-malaria prophylactics may be necessary, while proof of yellow fever vaccination is compulsory if you're traveling from a yellow fever endemic country.
Valid passport (valid for 3 months beyond length of stay)
Sufficient funds for your entire trip
Return airline ticket
Essential Tanzania travel information
Local Currency – Tanzanian Shilling (TZS) 2,600.37 TZS = 1 USD
Coins ranging from 100 to 500 TZS
Banknotes from 1000 to 10,000 TZS
Tanzania speaks two official languages; Swahili and English
Socket type - Tanzania uses two plug types, D and G, 230V supply voltage and 50Hz.
Time zone - Eastern Africa Time (EAT)
Top 3 cities to visit - Dar Es Salaam, Zanzibar, Arusha.
Top 3 landmarks/monuments – Tanzania Centre for Cultural Heritage, University of Dar-es-Salaam, The Slipway Shopping Centre, Mwenge Woodcarvers Market.
Customs and Etiquettes in Tanzania
Here are insights into local customs, traditions, and the etiquettes that will make your experience even more always seek permission before taking photos of individuals, especially in rural areas enriching:
Greetings and Politeness: Using polite phrases, basic Swahili greetings like “Jambo” (hello) and “Asante” (thank you) are warmly received.
In more conservative areas and especially when visiting religious sites, it’s respectful to cover your shoulders or/and knees.
Addressing individuals with their titles (Mzee for older men and Bibi for older women) is a sign of respect. In Tanzanian culture, elders are held in high regard.
If you are in predominantly Muslim areas, be mindful of prayer times, and avoid scheduling activities that may disturb these sacred moments.
Safety in Tanzania
Tanzania is mostly safe to visit, thorough caution is recommended especially in tourist areas such as Arusha, Stone Town (Zanzibar), and Dar es Salaam.
Apart from petty crime on the streets of Tanzania in the form of pickpocketing, bag snatching and common scammers that operate in crowded areas such as markets, like Kariakoo and bus or train stations, there is also a violent crime, and violent crime against foreigners is not altogether uncommon either, so be very cautious.
When it comes to pickpockets, be especially wary of children running around, since they’re mostly forced into a life of crime and they might try and steal from you.
Another safety issues are taxi drivers and you are highly advised to call a taxi you trust instead of hailing one on the streets.
If you must take a taxi that is unknown to you, take its number and send it to someone you trust so that they can track it, just in case something happens.
Also, bear in mind there are scammers impersonating police and authority, trying to extort money from you while flashing “immigration papers” at you.
Keep in mind that real officers mostly wear uniforms.
Climate in Tanzania
Tanzania lies just south of the equator and on the whole enjoys a tropical climate. Coastal areas can be particularly hot and humid, and there are two distinct rainy seasons. The heaviest rains fall from March to May, while a shorter rainy season occurs between October and December. The dry season brings with it cooler temperatures and lasts from June to September.
September in Tanzania marks the transition from the dry season to the short rainy season. While it's not as wet as other months, there is a chance of rain showers thunderstorms.
Temperatures during September are generally warm and pleasant, with average highs ranging from 24°C (75°F) to 30°C (86°F). The evenings can get cooler, so it's advisable to bring some light layers for those breezy nights.
In terms of wildlife viewing, September is an excellent time to visit Tanzania. The landscapes are lush and green after the dry season, making it perfect for safari adventures.
Top 5 awesome cities and towns in Tanzania to not miss on your trip.
· Arusha: Known as the gateway to Tanzania's famous national parks, Arusha is a vibrant city located at the foot of Mount Meru. It offers a range of outdoor activities, including safaris toengeti National Park and Ngorongoro Crater. You can also explore local markets and visit cultural sites like the Arusha Cultural Heritage Centre.
· Zanzibar City: Zanzibar City is the capital of Zanzibar and is divided into two main parts: Stone Town (UNESCO Heritage Site) Ng'ambo ("The Other Side"). The historic Stone Town is renowned for its narrow streets, ancient buildings, spice markets, bustling bazaars. Don't miss exploring its rich history through sites like the House of Wonders or relaxing on stunning beaches in Ng'ambo.
· Dar es Salaam: As Tanzania's largest city, Dar es Salaam offers a mix of urban attractions and coastal charm. Enjoy beautiful beaches Coco Beach or Bongoyo Island Marine Reserve. Explore interesting museums such as the National Museum or venture into bustling local markets like Kariakoo Market.
· Moshi: Located at the base of Kilimanjaro, Moshi serves as an excellent starting point for those who want to climb Africa's highest peak or enjoy other outdoor adventures in Kilimanjaro National Park. It also offers breathtaking views of Mount Kilimanjaro from various vantage points within the town.
· Bagamoyo: Steeped in history, Bagamoyo was once one of East Africa's most significant trading ports during colonial times. Today it much its Swahili culture and historical architecture with notable attractions such as Kaole Ruins (an ancient Islamic settlement) and Bagamoyo Arts Crafts Centre.
Each city has its unique charm offering different experiences from wildlife encounters to cultural immersion or beach relaxation.
Must-Do and Must-See Experiences that you should consider in Tanzania:
1) Serengeti National Park: Witness the Great Migration, where millions of wildebeests and other animals traverse the plains in search of food and water. Take a safari tour to see the diverse wildlife, including lions, elephants, giraffes, and zebras.
2) Mount Kilimanjaro: Embark on a trek to the summit of Africa's highest peak an unforgettable adventure. Choose from various routes that cater to different skill levels and enjoy breathtaking views along way.
3) Ngorongoro Crater: Explore this UNESCO World Heritage Site known as Africa's "Garden of Eden." Descend into the crater for a game drive and witness an incredible concentration of wildlife within its walls.
4) Zanzibar's Beaches: Relax on the pristine sand beaches of Zibar Island after your safari adventure. Enjoy turquoise waters, go snorkeling or diving in coral reefs, and visit historic Stone Town for its richahili culture.
5) Tarangire National Park: Visit this lesser-known gem known for its large herds of elephants roaming across vast savannahs dotted with baobab trees.
6) Cultural Experiences: Immerse yourself in Tanzania's vibrant culture by visiting local Maasai villages or attending traditional music and dance performances like Ngoma or Taarab.
7) Ruaha National Park: Discover Tanzania's largest national park located in Southern Tanzania with diverse landscapes ranging from open savannahs to river systems teeming with hippos and crocodiles.
8) Mikumi National Park - Located close to Dar es Salaam city Mikumi is one of the best places for short breaks safaris with high chances spotting lion families - The park is home to zebras giraffe buffalos wildebeests elands lions cheetah leopards hyenas antelopes
9) Selous Game Reserve - One of the largest game reserves located far south coast boasting large populations of elephants, hippopotamus, crocodile, lions, cheetahs, buffalos and wild dogs.
Some typical Tanzanian traditional dishes to try include:
· Ugali: A staple food made from maize flour (cornmeal) and water, often served with a variety of meat vegetable stews.
· Nyama Choma: Grilled meat, typically goat or beef, seasoned and roasted over an open flame. It is often served with a side of salad and spicy condiment called "kachumbari."
· Pilau: A flavorful rice dish cooked spices such as cumin, cardamom, cinnamon, and cloves, often mixed with meat such chicken or beef.
· Chapati: A type of flatbread that is similar to Indian roti or paratha; it'saky and delicious when served alongside other dishes.
· Samaki wa Kupaka: This is a dish featuring fish cooked in coconut sauce along with various spices, creating a rich and flavorful seafood experience.
· Mishkaki: These are skewered kebabs popular street food usually prepared using cubes of mar beef goat chicken or fish grilled over charcoal fire - They are quite tasty especially when eaten together with breads like naan chapati
· Kukuaka (Chicken in Coconut Curry): This dish consists of chicken simmered in a creamy coconut milk curry flavored with spices like turmeric coriander cinnamon cardam onion ginger garlic etc
· Sukuma Wiki: These are collard greens sautéed together with tomatoes onions garlic and ginger. They can be consumed as accompaniments to main courses like Ugali grilled meats
Fun Facts about Tanzania
1) Tanzania, officially the United Republic of Tanzania, is a place where nature is at its wildest. It is surrounded by three great lakes of Africa – Lake Victoria, Lake Tanganyika and Lake Malawi. It is rightly called the gateway to Africa.
2) Tanzania is made up of at least 120 tribes, each significant in their own way. Each of them is culturally distinguished by their unique masks, hand-woven baskets, batiks, poetry, items carved out of ebony or rosewood, etc.
3) Over 120 languages are spoken in Tanzania, most of them from the Bantu family. The kiswahili language (Swahili) is the official language of Tanzania and Kenya.
4) Tanzanians prefer drinking tea in the morning as a breakfast beverage and coffee in the evening.
5) The use of left hand to greet someone is considered impolite and rude in Tanzania.
6) Being a former European colony, Tanzanians have adopted football and rugby as their favorite sports.
7) The de-facto national dish of Tanzania is the humble Ugali. It’s a simple porridge made with millet or sorghum flour.
8) Mpingo tree, found in Tanzania produces the costliest timber in the world. It has exceptional mechanical properties that make it perfect for carving and it has a beautiful finish.
9) Freddie Mercury, the frontman vocalist, and songwriter of rock band Queen was born in Zanzibar, Tanzania.
10) Tanzanians love hip hop music and has created Bongo Flava, which is an amalgamation of international styles like reggae, afrobeat, blues, rasta and dancehall with local musical traditions like taarab and dansi.
We wish you a safe trip. See you in Dar-es Salaam.
Comments