Tanzania Business Visa: Requirements, Process, and Travel Tips

Tanzania is emerging as a strategic business destination in East Africa, offering vast opportunities in sectors such as mining, agriculture, tourism, infrastructure, and energy. For entrepreneurs, executives, and professionals planning short-term business activities, understanding how to obtain a Tanzania business visa is the first step toward seamless entry into the country’s dynamic market.

This guide walks you through the Tanzania business visa process, eligibility criteria, documentation, and practical tips to ensure a smooth application experience.

What is a Tanzania Business Visa?

A Tanzania business visa is a short-term visa issued to foreign nationals visiting Tanzania for business-related purposes. These purposes may include attending meetings, negotiating contracts, conducting site visits, or supervising projects.

This visa is typically issued for 30 to 90 days, depending on the duration of business activities. It does not permit the holder to engage in paid employment in Tanzania.

Who Should Apply?

You should apply for a Tanzania business visa if you are:

• Attending a business meeting or conference.
  
  

• Supervising or inspecting investments or projects.
  
  

• Negotiating contracts with Tanzanian counterparts.
  
  

• Providing short-term technical assistance or training.
  
  

• Exploring business expansion opportunities.
  
  

Tanzania Business Visa Eligibility

Eligibility Criteria	Description
Valid Passport	Must be valid for at least 6 months from date of entry.
Business Invitation	Invitation letter from a Tanzanian company or institution.
Return Proof	Ticket or travel plan confirming you’ll leave after your visit.
Financial Stability	Bank statements or financial backing showing you can support yourself.
Purpose of Visit	Must be clearly business-related, not employment or tourism.

Required Documents

To apply for a Tanzania business visa, prepare the following documents:

Document	Details
Passport	Bio-data page + at least one blank page for the visa.
Recent Passport Photo	White background, taken within the last 6 months.
Invitation Letter	From the hosting Tanzanian entity outlining the purpose, dates, and contact info.
Completed Application Form	Available online through Tanzania’s immigration portal.
Return Air Ticket	Confirmed booking or travel itinerary.
Proof of Funds	Recent bank statements (3-6 months) or company financial documents.

How to Apply for a Tanzania Business Visa

There are two main options:

1. eVisa (Recommended)

Visit the official Tanzania Immigration website to apply online:

• Upload documents
  
  

• Pay via credit card or bank transfer
  
  

• Processing time: 5–10 working days
  
  

Apply at: https://visa.immigration.go.tz

2. Visa on Arrival

• Available at major entry points (e.g., Julius Nyerere International Airport, Kilimanjaro Airport).
  
  

• Bring all documents, cash for visa fees.
  
  

• Processing may take time at busy ports of entry.
  
  

Note: It’s always safer to apply in advance via eVisa to avoid last-minute issues.

Tanzania Business Visa Fees

Visa Type	Duration	Fee (USD)
Single Entry	30–90 Days	$250
Multiple Entry (if eligible)	Up to 12 Months	$300
Transit Visa	Up to 7 Days	$30

(Source: Tanzania Immigration Services)

Business Travel Trends in Tanzania

• In 2024, Tanzania recorded a 7% rise in business travel, driven by increasing foreign direct investments.
  
  

• The city of Dar es Salaam is a hotspot for business visits due to rapid industrial growth.
  
  

• Tanzania ranks among East Africa’s top 5 destinations for infrastructure and energy investment.
  
  

Tips for a Smooth Business Trip to Tanzania

• Get vaccinated for yellow fever if you're traveling from a country where it's present.
  
  

• Carry multiple photocopies of your visa and passport during internal travel.
  
  

• Pre-arrange local business meetings—spontaneous appointments are rare.
  
  

• Always register your business activity with the relevant Tanzanian authority if required.
  
  

• English and Swahili are widely spoken in business settings.
  
  

FAQs

Q1: Can I work in Tanzania with a business visa?
A: No. A business visa only allows short-term business engagements, not paid employment.

Q2: How long can I stay with a Tanzania business visa?
A: Typically up to 90 days, but the exact period depends on the visa issued.

Q3: Is an invitation letter mandatory?
A: Yes. A letter from a Tanzanian company or business contact is required for approval.

Q4: Can I extend my business visa while in Tanzania?
A: Extensions are rarely granted. It's advisable to apply for the appropriate duration beforehand.

Q5: Are there penalties for overstaying a Tanzania business visa?
A: Yes. Overstaying may lead to fines, deportation, or future visa denials.

Conclusion

Securing a Tanzania business visa is your gateway to tapping into one of Africa’s fastest-growing markets. With proper planning, clear documentation, and a valid business purpose, the application process can be straightforward and efficient. Whether you’re exploring investment opportunities, meeting clients, or supervising projects, a Tanzania business visa ensures you stay compliant while focusing on your business goals.