Last verified: March 2026. This article was fact-checked against official government sources on March 1, 2026. This guide is intended for UK citizens. Immigration rules change frequently; always verify current requirements on the official portal before applying. We are an independent travel information site and are not affiliated with the Government of Tanzania.
For UK tourists in 2026, the Tanzania eVisa vs embassy visa comparison shows the electronic route is faster and cheaper. The Tanzania eVisa costs exactly $50 and processes within 10 business days, whereas traditional embassy visas demand an in-person appointment and take 2 to 6 weeks.
Understanding the differences between the ordinary eVisa, transit visas for layovers, and long-term residence permits ensures you hold the correct travel authorization and avoid complications at the border.
What Is the Tanzania eVisa and How Does It Work?
The Tanzania eVisa is a $50 electronic travel authorisation for UK citizens, applied online via visa.immigration.go.tz with processing within 10 business days.
Immigration authorities strongly discourage the Visa on Arrival; the Tanzania eVisa eliminates airport queues.
Fill out the online form
Generate your unique Application ID
Upload documents
Digital passport scan (JPEG/PNG, max 300 KB) and return flight ticket (PDF, max 1 MB)
Pay the $50 fee
Government fee using a Mastercard
eVisa vs Visa on Arrival – What Changed in 2024-2026
Tanzania Visa on Arrival remains available at major entry points as of 2026, but the Immigration Department strongly recommends the eVisa to avoid queues. Following a clarification issued on November 5, 2024, UK tourists are advised to use the Tanzania eVisa to expedite border entry.
The Embassy Visa Route – When and Why You Might Need It
While the Tanzania eVisa is the standard for most, the Tanzania embassy visa route is mandatory for the Referral Visa Category and takes 2 to 6 weeks.
- Embassy Visa: Compulsory for the Referral Visa Category, requiring a strict 2-month lead time and approval from the Commissioner General of Immigration. It mandates physical document submission and potential in-person visits for an interview or biometric data collection. For example, the Embassy in Berlin processes applications Monday – Friday between 10:00 – 13:00. Contact:
Eschenallee 11, 14050 Berlin, Germany, Tel: +49 (0)30-3030800, Email: [email protected].
Transit Visa for Tanzania – Rules for UK Travellers with Layovers
The Tanzania transit visa permits layovers of up to 7 days.
- Transit Visa: Issued for short layovers requiring exit from the international airport zone. The Tanzania eVisa portal allows UK tourists to secure this maximum 7-day permit digitally before departure, though it is also available at ports of entry in 2026.
Residence Permits in Tanzania – Class A, B, and C Explained
Tanzania residence permits cover stays beyond 90 days, are typically valid for 2 years, and include Class A for investors, Class B for employees, and Class C for NGO workers.
The Tanzania eVisa cannot replace a residency document approved by the Commissioner General of Immigration.
- Class A: Issued to foreign investors and entrepreneurs.
- Class B: Granted to expatriate employees who possess a mandatory work permit.
- Class C: Designated for NGO workers, missionaries, and volunteers.
The Tanzania eVisa features a Business category exclusively for short-term consulting. Any full-time employment requires a Class B permit.
Tanzania eVisa vs Embassy Visa vs Transit Visa vs Residence Permit – Full Comparison
The Tanzania eVisa ($50, 10 business days) vs Embassy (2-6 weeks), Transit (7 days), Residence (2 years).
| Visa Type | Cost | Processing time | Validity / Stay | Documents Required | UK Eligibility | Border Entry Experience |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Tanzania eVisa | $50 | Within 10 business days | Up to 90 days (Single entry) | Digital passport scan, photo, flight ticket | Standard tourist entry | Pre-cleared digital record |
| Embassy Visa | Varies | 2 to 6 weeks | Varies | Physical passport, biometrics | Referral cases | Manual verification |
| Transit Visa | N/A | Varies | Up to 7 days | Onward flight proof | Layovers | Standard check |
| Residence Permit | Varies | Varies | Typically 2 years | Work or investment proof | Classes A, B, C | Resident entry |
Cost Comparison and Agency Fees
The Tanzania eVisa requires only the standard government fee of $50 when submitted through visa.immigration.go.tz. Third-party agency surcharges typically start around €109.95. At the current exchange rate (Feb 2026), the $50 fee equals approximately £39. However, UK travellers should budget £85-£120 total, including the mandatory $44 Zanzibar insurance (~£35) and potential agency fees. For comparison, an embassy visa typically costs £60-£120 depending on the Referral Category surcharges.
Zanzibar Mandatory Insurance
Every UK traveller must hold a $44 policy from the Zanzibar Insurance Corporation, effective October 1, 2024, regardless of their chosen visa type.
Source: Tanzania Immigration Department, ‘Visa Types and Fees’ (2026), available at immigration.go.tz; Zanzibar Insurance Corporation, ‘Mandatory Travel Insurance Policy’ (Oct 2024), available at zic.go.tz.
FAQ: Tanzania eVisa and Visa Types for UK Travellers
Is the Tanzania Visa on Arrival (VoA) still available in 2026?
Yes, it remains operational at major entry points in 2026. However, following a November 5, 2024 clarification, the Immigration Department strongly discourages its use. UK tourists should apply for the Tanzania eVisa to avoid queues.
How long does the Tanzania eVisa processing time take compared to an embassy visa?
The standard Tanzania eVisa processing time is within 10 business days. An embassy visa takes 2 to 6 weeks. The Referral Visa Category requires a 2-month lead time.
Can I extend my Tanzania eVisa while in the country?
Per the Immigration Department’s practice, you may apply for a single extension of up to 90 days at the Principal Immigration Officer in Dar es Salaam (Counter 12, forms TZ-EXT-01). Submit your application at least 14 days before your current visa expires.
What are the penalties for overstaying a Tanzania visa?
According to the Tanzania Immigration Act (Cap. 54), overstaying may result in a fine of up to TZS 600,000 or imprisonment for up to 3 years. Always consult the Immigration Department at immigration.go.tz for the latest penalty schedule.
Do accompanying minors need a separate Tanzania eVisa application?
Yes. A separate Tanzania eVisa application must be submitted for every individual passport holder under 18, carrying the standard government fee and processing time.
Can I pay the Tanzania eVisa fee with a Mastercard?
Yes, Mastercard is accepted. UK citizens pay a $50 government fee for a standard Ordinary Visa, while US citizens are charged $100 for a Multiple Entry Visa.
Is the $44 Zanzibar insurance required for all visa types?
Yes, the mandatory $44 policy is required for all foreigners visiting Zanzibar, regardless of visa type, and has been effective since October 1, 2024.
What is the difference between a Business eVisa and a Work Permit?
A Business eVisa is for short-term consulting. Full employment requires a Class B Residence Permit, which acts as a work permit for expatriate employees and is typically valid for 2 years.
What documents are required for a Tanzania embassy visa?
It requires physical submission of documents, including a passport with at least 6 months validity and one blank page. Applicants may need to provide biometric data at the consulate.
What does the Referral Visa Category mean?
It applies to citizens of specific countries requiring special clearance from the Commissioner General of Immigration.
