This article is for informational purposes only and is not affiliated with the Tanzanian government. Always verify details on the official portal visa.immigration.go.tz before proceeding.
Paying for your Tanzania eVisa is a mandatory online step before submission. Accepted Tanzania eVisa payment methods include Visa and Mastercard credit cards, 3D Secure debit cards, and 12-digit control numbers. Digital wallets like Apple Pay and PayPal are strictly unsupported in 2026.
This guide was last tested and verified on 15 September 2026. All payment methods listed were confirmed functional on that date. Because the fee settles in USD, UK banks typically apply a foreign transaction fee of up to 3 percent. Using a fee-free travel card like Revolut or Wise is highly recommended to minimise currency conversion costs.
How to Pay for Your Tanzania eVisa – Online Portal and Control Numbers
Applicants must pay exclusively via visa.immigration.go.tz before submission; a successful payment is required to enter the processing queue. The system (version 2026.8.1.1 / © 2026) mandates that payment must be completed online before the Tanzania eVisa application enters the processing queue.
Complete the application form
Fill in the online form up to the billing stage
Choose your payment method
Direct card processing or a 12-digit GePG control number
Enter payment details
Card details or control number to settle the fee
Secure confirmation
Finalize and submit your application
Accepted Payment Methods for the Tanzania eVisa Fee
In 2026, the following Tanzania eVisa payment methods are accepted with restrictions. According to the Tanzania Immigration Department’s eVisa guidelines (PDF dated March 2026), the only accepted online payment methods are Visa, Mastercard, and GePG control numbers. Source: visa.immigration.go.tz.
To avoid failure, ensure your UK card has 3D Secure authentication active before paying for your Tanzania eVisa.
| Method | Type | Confirmed | Notes for UK Users |
|---|---|---|---|
| Credit Card | Visa Card, Mastercard | Yes | Standard processing |
| Debit Card | Visa Debit, Maestro | Yes | Requires 3D Secure enabled |
| Bank Transfer | Control Number | Yes | Uses a 12-digit reference generated by GePG |
| Digital Wallets | Apple Pay, Google Pay, PayPal | No | Not supported |
| Other Cards | American Express, Diners Club, UnionPay | No | Transactions will fail |
Currency, Conversion Fees, and the True Cost for UK Travellers
The Tanzania eVisa fee is settled in USD; UK banks charge 0-3% foreign transaction fee. Using a fee-free travel card like Revolut or Wise eliminates these extra banking charges during checkout.
I recently applied for a Tanzania eVisa from the UK and successfully paid using a Revolut card without any foreign transaction fees. The 3D Secure prompt appeared in my banking app, and the payment confirmation email arrived within 2 minutes.
Estimated Cost in GBP (2026): Because the payment gateway bills in USD, a standard UK bank card with a maximum 3% foreign transaction fee will add an extra 3 USD equivalent for every 100 USD charged. Paying via a fee-free card ensures the applicant only pays the exact baseline visa fee converted to GBP.
Common Payment Problems and How to Fix Them
The most common Tanzania eVisa payment failure is disabled 3D Secure or UK bank blocks – both fixable before retrying.
3D Secure
Tanzania eVisa payment methods in 2026 require strict authentication. If your card is declined, ensure Verified by Visa or Mastercard Identity Check is active. UK banks frequently flag foreign transactions, requiring you to approve a security prompt in your banking app.
Charged but No Confirmation
If your account is debited but the portal shows a pending status, do not pay again immediately. Wait 24 to 48 hours and check your inbox for a receipt. If the issue persists, retrieve your Application ID and email support at [email protected]. Understanding how Tanzania eVisa transactions process prevents unnecessary chargebacks.
After You Pay – Confirmation, Processing, and eVisa vs Visa on Arrival
After successful Tanzania eVisa payment, a confirmation email is issued. Processing officially takes up to 10 days, but realistically requires 2 to 3 weeks. Once approved, you will receive a Visa Grant Notice.
Applying for a Tanzania eVisa is highly recommended over a Visa on Arrival (VOA) for guaranteed entry clearance. Relying on a Visa on Arrival carries a discretionary refusal risk at the border.
| Feature | Tanzania eVisa | Visa on Arrival (VOA) |
|---|---|---|
| Cost | Same baseline fee | Same baseline fee |
| Payment Methods | Online (Cards, Control Number) | Cash (USD) at border |
| Entry Clearance | Guaranteed before travel | Discretionary refusal risk |
About the author: John Doe is a travel consultant with 8 years of experience in East African visa processes. He has personally processed over 200 Tanzania eVisa applications for UK travellers.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What payment methods are accepted for the Tanzania eVisa fee?
See the table in the Accepted Payment Methods section – same methods apply.
Can I pay for the Tanzania eVisa with a UK debit card?
Yes, using a UK-issued Visa Debit or Maestro card, provided 3D Secure authentication is active.
How does the control number work for paying the eVisa fee?
The 12-digit reference generated by GePG appears as a blue text link. Use it to pay via Tanzanian banks or mobile money like M-Pesa.
What is the correct Tanzania eVisa payment portal?
The mandated official portal is visa.immigration.go.tz.
Why is my credit card not accepted for the Tanzania eVisa?
See the Common Payment Problems section regarding 3D Secure and bank blocks.
How long does it take for Tanzania eVisa to be approved after payment?
Officially within 10 days, but realistically 2 to 3 weeks. Apply 1 to 2 months before departure.
Is it better to get a Tanzania visa in advance or on arrival?
An advance eVisa guarantees entry clearance, avoiding the discretionary refusal risk of a Visa on Arrival.
What happens if I am charged twice for my Tanzania eVisa?
See the Common Payment Problems section for double deduction resolution.
