Planning a trip to the stunning landscapes of the United Republic of Tanzania (Tanzania) — think safari in the Serengeti, climbing Mount Kilimanjaro, or beach time in Zanzibar? If you're an Indian citizen, you’ll be pleased to know you can apply online Tanzania eVisa for India. This blog-style guide walks you through everything you need to know — in a conversational, traveller-to-traveller tone.
Can Indian citizens apply for a Tanzania eVisa?
Yes — the Tanzanian government offers an online electronic visa (eVisa) system for Indian passport-holders. Official sources from the Tanzanian High Commission in New Delhi mention the introduction of an e-Visa service for “India, Bangladesh, Nepal, Singapore and Sri Lanka”.
In short: if you hold a valid Indian passport and meet the criteria, you can apply for your tourist visa online, which is more convenient than mailing or visiting an embassy.
What documents are required for a Tanzanian eVisa for Indians?
Here’s a breakdown of what you should prepare, based on latest available sources.
Basic required documents
A valid Indian passport with 6 months validity from the date of arrival in Tanzania.
A recent passport-size colour photograph (digital scan) of yourself.
Valid email address (for receiving the eVisa document).
Payment through an online payment gateway (credit/debit card) for visa fee.
Additional / supporting documents (often required)
A copy (scan) of the biometric page (bio page) of your passport.
Proof of accommodation in Tanzania (for example hotel booking) or invitation letter (if staying with friends/family).
Return or onward flight itinerary or ticket (to show you will leave Tanzania).
For minors, if travelling with one parent or guardian, possibly a notarised letter of consent.
Quick Tip
Keep digital copies ready (passport scan, photo) and a good quality colour photo in case you need to upload. Make sure your passport has at least two blank pages and is fully valid for at least six months.
How long does it take for the Tanzania eVisa to be processed for Indian applicants?
Processing Time of Tanzania eVisa varies a bit depending on the source and whether you’re using an agency or applying via the official portal. Here’s a realistic expectation:
The Tanzanian High Commission site says the visa “will be processed within ten (4-7) days.”
A private site directed at Indian applicants suggests standard processing may be 4-7 working days.
Another resource quotes 2-3 business days for most straightforward applications.
My advice
Apply at least 3-4 weeks ahead of your trip if possible. That gives buffer for any hiccups (document uploads, payment issues). And keep a print-out of your approval emailed to you.
Can I pay the visa fee online using my Indian debit/credit card?
Yes, you can pay online via the online eVisa portal. The official site states that payments for the eVisa are done online via the form.
However — and this is important — some travellers report issues with card payments (international transaction declines, etc.). For instance on a travel forum:
“My charges are getting denied. Then I call the bank each time. They say wait a few days then try again?????”
My tip
Before applying:
Inform your bank that you intend an international transaction for a visa payment.
Use a major card (Visa/Mastercard) with international use enabled.
Try payment early (don’t leave it to the last minute).
Have a backup plan (like a friend’s card or alternate payment method) just in case.
Can I apply for a multiple-entry eVisa to Tanzania as an Indian citizen?
This is a grey area. On one hand, the official High Commission site shows a “Multiple Visa” option for Indian citizens:
“Indian Citizens: (Multiple entry) for one year, 90 Days at a time” for ordinary/tourist visa.
On the other hand, many sources treat Indian applicants as receiving a single-entry tourist eVisa for 90 days. For example:
“Tourist eVisa (Single entry for 90 days) (for Indian citizens) in one listing.
Bottom line
It may be possible for Indian citizens to apply for a multiple-entry visa, but you should check the current category on the official eVisa portal (or with the Tanzanian High Commission). If you genuinely need multiple entries (say you plan to leave mainland Tanzania, visit Kenya or Uganda and come back), then you should choose the multiple-entry option if available. Always confirm your visa type when applying.
What is the validity of the Tanzania eVisa (how long can I stay, when must I enter)?
Good question — validity and stay duration are key to planning. Here’s how it breaks down:
Stay duration
Typically, with a tourist eVisa you can stay up to 90 days in Tanzania.
Validity for entry
For a single-entry eVisa: valid for 90 days (from date of issue or from arrival?) for entry into Tanzania.
For a multiple-entry eVisa: validity may be up to 12 months (1 year), but each stay cannot exceed 90 days.
Example
If you are issued a multiple-entry visa valid for 12 months, you could enter Tanzania multiple times over that year – but each time you stay, you cannot exceed 90 days per visit.
Important detail
Having an approved eVisa does not guarantee entry. The immigration officer at the border still has the right to refuse entry if they consider you do not meet requirements.
Are there any health/vaccination requirements for Indian travellers to Tanzania?
Yes — there are some health checks to keep in mind.
Yellow fever
If you are arriving directly from India (which is not a yellow-fever risk country), you may not always need a yellow fever certificate. According to one source:
“Indian citizens are generally NOT required to show yellow fever vaccination certificate when traveling directly from India to Tanzania, as India is not considered a yellow fever endemic country.”
Important caveat: If you have travelled (or transited) through a country that is a yellow fever risk zone within the previous 10 days, then you will need a yellow fever vaccination certificate.
Other health recommendations
Ensure your routine vaccinations (MMR, DPT, influenza) are up to date.
Malaria is a risk in many parts of Tanzania — consider prophylaxis (ask your doctor) and use mosquito repellent.
For longer stays or remote regions, medical/evacuation insurance is a good idea.
My recommendation
Before you travel:
Check whether your flight path or transit may take you through a yellow-fever zone.
Get a travel-health consultation with a doctor.
Carry your vaccination certificate (if required) and keep a copy in digital & physical form.
Which entry points in Tanzania (airport/port) allow eVisa holders?
The eVisa for Tanzania is accepted at a range of official entry points for the mainland and Zanzibar island. According to one listing:
Airports: Julius Nyerere International Airport (DAR, Dar es Salaam); Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO); Abeid Amani Karume International Airport (ZNZ, Zanzibar)
Land borders: Namanga (Kenya-Tanzania), Sirari/Isebania, Tunduma (Zambia-Tanzania) etc.
Tip
When you fill your application, ensure that your first entry point matches one of the recognised ports of entry. Keep a printed copy of your eVisa/approval letter and your travel itinerary ready to show immigration.
Can I convert or extend my stay in Tanzania while on a tourist eVisa?
This is where things get a bit nuanced.
Extending stay
Some sources say that for a single-entry tourist eVisa, you may apply for an extension at immigration offices in Tanzania (Dar es Salaam, Zanzibar, Arusha).
However, others report that once in Tanzania your ability to extend may be limited. From a forum:
“I’m currently in Tanzania … looking to extend for another 90 days … but the local immigration offices tell me it is impossible.”
What happens if my eVisa is rejected or delayed?
Delays
As with any online visa system, delays do happen. From traveller forums:
“I applied for Tanzania eVisa … still says ‘Application on Progress’ (knowing that the processing time is only 10 days max).”
Rejection
If your application is rejected, you usually need to apply again. The fee you paid may not always be refundable. One document notes:
“Once submitted, the fee is non-refundable.”
What you can do
Make sure all your documents are accurate and clearly uploaded (passport scan, photo, itinerary, accommodation).
Apply early — don’t leave it to the last minute.
Keep your payment/transaction confirmation, application ID and any mails.
If you don’t get approval in time, you may consider applying for a visa on arrival (see next section).
On arrival, have plan B: carry digital/print copy of application, payment receipt etc in case you need to explain.
My recommendation
Once you submit, check status online using the application ID (via the official portal). If you’ve not heard back closer to travel date, reach out to the Tanzanian immigration support email or your travel agent. And from an Indian traveller’s point of view: apply at least 3–4 weeks ahead, keep a buffer.
Should I choose a visa on arrival instead of an eVisa as an Indian?
Both options may exist, but there are pros and cons.
Advantages of eVisa
Pre-approved before travel → less stress at arrival.
Often faster/pass-through immigration more smoothly.
You arrive knowing your visa is ready.
Advantages of Visa on Arrival (VOA)
Sometimes used as a backup if eVisa is delayed.
Might suit last-minute travel.
What Indian travellers say
“Indian passport holder … I am wondering if I as an India passport holder am eligible for visa upon entry.”
“Indian passport holders are required to apply for a Visa beforehand.”
Official position
The Indian High Commission advisory notes: visas for India nationals can be obtained “either from the High Commission … or at points of entry … for tourism and Business.”
My take
If you’re travelling from India and have time, apply for the online eVisa. It gives you better peace of mind. Reserve visa-on-arrival only as a backup (and you still need to check the fees & rules at the airport/port). For smooth travel, eVisa is my recommendation.
Can Indians working or studying in Tanzania use the tourist eVisa?
No — a tourist eVisa is not intended for employment **or full-time **study.
If you plan to work or enroll in a university in Tanzania, you will need to apply for the correct permit or long-stay visa (resident permit, student pass, work permit). Official documents indicate such categories are issued to foreign nationals who intend to reside, work, study etc.
If you attempt to stay and work on a tourist eVisa, this may be a violation of immigration law, risking penalties, deportation or future bans. So if your plan is “work” or “study”, apply for the appropriate visa type.
Travel Tips
Here are some practical tips from a traveller’s viewpoint:
Apply early: Give yourself 3-4 weeks lead time from India.
Print your eVisa: Even though it’s electronic, carry a printed copy and maybe one digital copy (on phone) for arrival.
Keep supporting documents: Hotel booking, return ticket, proof of funds — you may be asked at immigration.
Make sure passport validity is fine: At least 6 months validity and at least two blank pages for stamp.
Check your card payment: International transaction should be enabled; if declined, try again or chat with your bank.
Carry travel insurance: Especially if you plan safari adventure or remote stays.
Be mindful of health/vaccination: Especially if you transit via yellow-fever countries or go into rural regions.
Arrive at a major entry point: For smoother immigration, airports like Dar es Salaam (DAR) or Kilimanjaro (JRO) are better.
Respect your stay limit: Don’t overstay; each visit typically max 90 days.
Avoid working/studying on tourist visa: Get the right permit if your plans are not purely tourism.
Keep contact info handy: Embassy or High Commission of India in Tanzania, local immigration office etc.
Tanzania eVisa FAQs
Q: I applied for an eVisa but haven’t received approval yet — can I still travel?
A: If you don’t have a confirmed approval letter, it’s risky. You might be asked to pay for a visa on arrival or be held up at immigration. Ideally wait for approval.
Q: Can children apply on the same application as parents?
A: Generally each traveller (including children) must apply separately and have their own visa.
Q: Do I need to show proof of onward travel/return flight?
A: Yes, it’s often required by immigration to show you will leave Tanzania. Some visa lists include return ticket as a requirement.
Q: Can I enter Tanzania via Zanzibar and then go to mainland, or vice versa?
A: Yes — the eVisa covers mainland Tanzania and Zanzibar (which is part of Tanzania). Ensure your entry point is a recognised one.
Q: My eVisa says single-entry — if I leave and come back, will it be valid?
A: No. Single-entry means you can enter once. If you leave, you’ll need a new visa. For multiple entries you need that specific type.
Top comments (0)