A Tanzania transit visa is required for travelers passing through Tanzania to another destination when their layover or transit exceeds the allowable transit period, or when they must pass through immigration — it costs $30 USD and allows a maximum stay of 7 days. Travelers who only transit through a Tanzania airport without clearing immigration generally do not need a transit visa, but those who exit the secure airside area or have a layover requiring an overnight stay do.
What is the Tanzania Transit Visa?
According to Tanzania Immigration Services, the transit visa is issued to a person "for the purpose of transiting through Tanzania to another destination outside the United Republic for a period not exceeding seven days."
This means:
- Maximum allowed transit stay: 7 days
- Purpose: passing through Tanzania to reach another country
- Not for tourism, business, or residency
- Must have confirmed onward travel to a third destination
Who Needs a Tanzania Transit Visa?
You Need a Tanzania Transit Visa If:
- You are entering Tanzania immigration (land side) during a stopover, even for a short period
- Your layover involves an overnight stay in Tanzania
- You are traveling overland through Tanzania to reach another country (e.g., Kenya to Zambia via Tanzania)
- You are transiting by sea through a Tanzanian port with a planned stop
You May NOT Need a Transit Visa If:
- You are on an airside transit — meaning you remain in the secure international transit area of the airport without clearing Tanzanian immigration
- Your connecting flight is at the same airport and does not require you to re-check bags through customs
- Your nationality has a visa-free arrangement with Tanzania (check EAC and SADC exemptions)
Important: Tanzania does not currently have a formal "Airside Transit Visa" category — check with the airline and Tanzania Immigration if your specific situation is unclear. The safest approach is to contact info@immigration.go.tz before travel.
Tanzania Transit Visa Requirements
Tanzania Immigration lists these required documents for a transit visa:
- Valid passport — with at least 6 months validity
- Entry visa or onward ticket to the intended country of destination — you must prove you have authorization to enter the country you are transiting to
- Visa fee: $30 USD
- 1 passport-size photo — required for embassy applications; may not be needed for online applications
How to Apply for Tanzania Transit Visa
Online Application (Recommended)
Apply at the official Tanzania e-Visa portal: https://visa.immigration.go.tz
- Select "Transit Visa" as the visa type
- Complete the application form with your passport details and travel plans
- Upload required documents including onward destination visa/ticket
- Pay $30 by Visa or Mastercard
- Receive Transit Visa Grant Notice by email
- Processing time: up to 10 business days
On Arrival at Tanzania Airport
Transit visa on arrival is available at major Tanzania airports for eligible nationalities, but this should not be relied upon for tight connections. Long queues at visa counters can cause travelers to miss onward flights.
Through Tanzania Embassy
For certain nationalities, or if your onward destination requires advance visa documentation, applying through the nearest Tanzania embassy may be required or preferable. Bring the application form, passport, photo, fee, and proof of onward travel.
Tanzania Transit Visa: Cost and Duration
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Fee | $30 USD |
| Maximum stay | 7 days |
| Entries | Single transit |
| Purpose | Transit only (no tourism) |
| Onward destination visa required | Yes — you must show you can enter the next country |
Tanzania Transit vs Tourist Visa: Key Difference
The transit visa ($30, 7 days) is for travelers passing through Tanzania on their way somewhere else. The tourist/Ordinary visa ($50, 90 days) is for travelers whose destination is Tanzania. If you plan to sightsee or stay in Tanzania during your stopover, you need a tourist visa rather than a transit visa.
Land Transit Through Tanzania
For travelers crossing Tanzania by road or train between neighboring countries:
- Tanzania-Kenya: Common overland route through Namanga or Holili border crossings
- Tanzania-Zambia: Through Tunduma/Nakonde border crossing or TAZARA railway
- Tanzania-Mozambique: Through Kasumulu border crossing
- Tanzania-Uganda/Rwanda: Via various northern or western border crossings
For land transits, a Tanzania transit visa is typically required unless your nationality is exempt. The 7-day validity gives ample time for most overland transits.
Frequently Asked Questions
Related guides: Requirements | Fees | Processing Time