Last updated: 17 September 2026. Visa regulations change frequently. Always verify current requirements with the Tanzania Immigration Department (visa.immigration.go.tz). This guide is for informational purposes only.
A Tanzania transit visa costs $30 USD (approximately £24 GBP) for UK citizens in 2026. It requires a passport valid for at least 6 months and a confirmed onward ticket. Processing takes 5 to 7 working days via the e-visa portal.
This single-entry permit allows travellers to pass through Tanzania en route to a third destination for a maximum stay of up to 7 days. It is specifically designed for short layovers and cannot be extended under any circumstances.
What Is a Tanzania Transit Visa?
A Tanzania transit visa is a single-entry permit allowing travellers to pass through Tanzania en route to a third country, valid for up to 7 days. The Tanzania transit visa differs from an ordinary tourist visa, as it is strictly issued for transit purposes rather than extended holidays.
Tanzania Transit Visa Cost for UK Citizens (2026)
The Tanzania transit visa costs USD 30 (~£24) for UK citizens, with a maximum stay of 7 days. The transit visa is non-extendable; longer layovers require an ordinary tourist visa.
| Visa Type | Fee in USD | Fee in GBP | Validity / Stay Limit |
|---|---|---|---|
| Tanzania Transit Visa | $30 | ~£24 | 7 days |
| Ordinary Tourist Visa | $50 | See Home Office rates | 90 days |
| Multiple Entry Visa | $100 | ~£80 | 12 months |
| Note: GBP exchange rate is approximate for 2026. Actual rates depend on your bank. | |||
Tanzania Transit Visa Requirements for Short Layovers
The Tanzania transit visa requires a passport valid for at least six months, a confirmed onward ticket, a valid third-country visa, and a recent biometric photo.
Essential Documents
- Passport with a minimum of six months validity from the entry date and at least one unused page.
- Confirmed onward ticket to a third destination.
- Valid visa for the destination country, if applicable.
Photo Requirements
Applicants for the Tanzania transit visa must upload a recent 35mm x 45mm biometric photo with a white background in JPG or PNG format.
Health Requirements: Yellow Fever Certificate
A Yellow Fever Certificate is strictly required if the transit layover in Tanzania exceeds 12 hours.
Transit Visa for Children and Minors
The Tanzania transit visa costs USD 30 for minors, requiring a separate application for each child.
How to Apply for a Tanzania Transit Visa – Step-by-Step (2026)
UK citizens apply online at the e-visa portal, with standard processing taking 5 to 7 working days after payment by Visa or Mastercard.
Application Steps: Tanzania E-Visa Portal
Register an account
Create your account at visa.immigration.go.tz
Complete the application
Fill in the form and upload the required documents
Pay the visa fee
Pay USD 30 using a Visa or Mastercard
Transit Visa on Arrival: Is It Still an Option?
E-visa recommended; on-arrival risks airline boarding denial. If forced to purchase the Tanzania transit visa at the airport, exact USD cash, Tanzanian Shillings, or a card are accepted.
Do I Need a Transit Visa If I Never Leave the Airport? (2026)
No transit visa is needed for airside layovers in Tanzania in 2026, but it is required if you leave the international transit lounge to collect baggage.
Baggage Re-Claim & Self-Transfer Rules
The Tanzania transit visa is mandatory for budget travellers on self-transfer tickets. Because collecting luggage requires passing through immigration clearance, the Tanzania transit visa must be secured before your journey.
- Are your bags checked through to your final destination? (No: Visa required / Yes: See next step)
- Will you remain inside the international transit zone? (No: Visa required / Yes: No visa needed)
Can I Exit via a Land Border on a Transit Visa?
The Tanzania transit visa permits exiting via a land border, provided the entry port matches your application.
Tanzania Transit Visa Validity & Stay Rules (2026)
A Tanzania transit visa is valid for a maximum stay of 7 days, is single-entry, and cannot be extended under any circumstances.
7-Day Validity – What It Means for Your Layover
The Tanzania transit visa strictly caps your stay. You must depart the country within 7 days of your arrival date.
Layover Longer Than 7 Days? Here’s What to Do
If your travel plans require a stay beyond 7 days, you cannot use a Tanzania transit visa. You must apply for an Ordinary Tourist Visa (USD 50) instead.
Key Fine Print – Visa Approval Does Not Guarantee Entry
An approved Tanzania transit visa grants permission to travel, but the Immigration Officer at the Port of Entry holds the final authority to grant admission.
FAQ: Tanzania Transit Visa for UK Travellers
How much does a Tanzania transit visa cost for UK citizens?
The Tanzania transit visa cost is strictly USD 30 (~£24 GBP) for UK citizens in 2026.
How long does it take to process a Tanzania transit visa?
Standard processing time is 5 to 7 working days via the e-visa portal. Apply at least 7 days before departure.
Can I extend my Tanzania transit visa if my layover changes?
No, a Tanzania transit visa is strictly non-extendable and valid for a maximum of 7 days.
Do I need a yellow fever certificate for a short layover in Tanzania?
Required if layover >12 hours. Under 12 hours – no Yellow Fever Certificate required.
Can UK citizens get a Tanzania transit visa on arrival?
E-visa recommended; on-arrival risks airline boarding denial. Exact USD cash, TZS, or cards are accepted at the airport.
What happens if my layover in Tanzania is longer than 7 days?
You must apply for an Ordinary Tourist Visa (USD 50), which allows a stay of up to 90 days.
Do children need a separate Tanzania transit visa?
Yes, minors require their own separate Tanzania transit visa application, costing USD 30.
Can I exit via a land border on a Tanzania transit visa?
Yes, if entry port matches e-visa details provided during your application.
What is the difference between a Tanzania transit visa and a tourist visa?
A Tanzania transit visa costs USD 30 and allows a 7-day stay for passing through, while a tourist visa costs USD 50 and permits up to 90 days.
Does an approved Tanzania transit visa guarantee entry?
No, the Immigration Officer at the Port of Entry has the final authority to grant or deny entry.
