Daressalaam Entry Requirements

Visa, immigration, and customs information

Dar es Salaam, Tanzania's largest city and main port, serves as the primary entry point for many international travelers visiting Tanzania. The city is served by Julius Nyerere International Airport (DAR), which handles the majority of international flights. Entry requirements for Dar es Salaam follow Tanzania's national immigration policies, which include visa requirements for most nationalities, though these can often be obtained online or on arrival. The immigration process in Dar es Salaam is generally straightforward, with modern facilities at Julius Nyerere International Airport. Most travelers will need to obtain a visa either in advance through Tanzania's e-Visa system, on arrival at the airport, or at a Tanzanian embassy or consulate. The process typically involves presenting your passport, completing an immigration form, and paying any applicable visa fees. Health requirements, particularly yellow fever vaccination certificates, are strictly enforced for travelers arriving from endemic countries. Before traveling to Dar es Salaam, ensure your passport is valid for at least six months beyond your intended stay, arrange your visa if required, and verify current health requirements. Tanzania has modernized its visa application system in recent years, making it easier for travelers to obtain authorization before arrival. However, policies can change, so always verify current requirements with official sources well in advance of your trip.

Visa Requirements

Entry permissions vary by nationality. Find your category below.

Tanzania requires visas for most international visitors, with different categories based on nationality. The country operates an online e-Visa system for eligible nationalities, while some travelers can obtain visas on arrival. A limited number of countries enjoy visa-free access for short stays.

Visa-Free Entry

Up to 90 days

Citizens of these countries can enter Tanzania without a visa for tourism or business purposes

Includes

All East African Community members (Kenya, Uganda, Rwanda, Burundi, South Sudan) Commonwealth countries for up to 3 months (including UK, Australia, Canada, New Zealand, Singapore, Malaysia) Botswana Lesotho Eswatini (Swaziland) Namibia South Africa Zimbabwe Hong Kong SAR Jamaica Cyprus Malta

Visa-free entry is typically for tourism or business purposes only. Passport must be valid for at least 6 months from date of entry. Some nationalities may need to show proof of onward travel and sufficient funds. Requirements can vary, so verify current policy for your specific nationality.

Electronic Visa (e-Visa)

Single entry: up to 90 days; Multiple entry: up to 12 months

Most nationalities can apply for a Tanzania e-Visa online before travel. This is the recommended method as it streamlines the entry process

Includes

United States European Union countries (all members) China India Japan South Korea Brazil Argentina Mexico Russia Turkey United Arab Emirates Saudi Arabia Most other countries not listed under visa-free

How to Apply: Apply online through the official Tanzania Immigration Services website (eservices.immigration.go.tz). Processing typically takes 10 business days but can be faster. Upload required documents including passport bio page, passport photo, and travel itinerary. Apply at least 2 weeks before travel.
Cost: Tourist visa: USD $50 for single entry, USD $100 for multiple entry. Business visa: USD $250. Transit visa: USD $30. Payment is made online via credit/debit card.

Print your e-Visa approval and present it upon arrival. The e-Visa system has largely replaced visa-on-arrival for most nationalities. Ensure all uploaded documents are clear and meet specifications to avoid delays.

Visa on Arrival

Up to 90 days for tourist visa

While e-Visa is preferred, visa on arrival is still available for eligible nationalities at major entry points including Julius Nyerere International Airport

How to Apply: Available at immigration counters at the airport. Complete visa application form (provided on arrival or on aircraft), present passport, passport photo, proof of accommodation, and return ticket. Payment accepted in USD cash (exact amount preferred) or major credit cards.

Visa on arrival can involve longer wait times, especially during peak travel periods. E-Visa is strongly recommended to expedite entry. US citizens and some other nationalities pay higher fees. Ensure you have exact USD cash as change may not always be available.

Embassy/Consulate Visa

Typically up to 90 days, depending on visa type

Travelers can also apply for visas at Tanzanian embassies or consulates abroad

How to Apply: Contact the nearest Tanzanian embassy or consulate. Submit application form, passport, photos, travel itinerary, and fee. Processing time varies by location (typically 5-10 business days).

This method may be necessary for certain visa types (work, study, residence) or if online application is not feasible. Requirements may vary by embassy location.

Arrival Process

Upon arrival at Julius Nyerere International Airport in Dar es Salaam, travelers proceed through immigration, collect baggage, pass through customs, and exit to the arrivals area. The process is generally efficient, though wait times can vary depending on flight arrival times and passenger volume.

Health Screening

First checkpoint after disembarking. Present yellow fever vaccination certificate if arriving from or transiting through an endemic country. Temperature screening may be conducted. Health declaration forms may be required depending on current health protocols.

Immigration/Visa Counter

If you don't have a visa, proceed to visa-on-arrival counters first to obtain and pay for your visa. If you have an e-Visa or are visa-exempt, proceed directly to immigration queues. Separate lines for Tanzanian citizens, East African Community citizens, and foreign nationals.

Immigration Control

Present your passport, visa (if required), and completed arrival card (usually distributed on the aircraft). Immigration officer will verify documents, may ask questions about your visit, and stamp your passport with entry permission. Biometric data (fingerprints, photo) may be collected.

Baggage Claim

Proceed to baggage claim area and collect your luggage from the designated carousel. Porters are available for assistance (tipping expected, typically TSh 5,000-10,000 or USD $2-5).

Customs Declaration

Complete customs declaration form if you have goods to declare. Choose the appropriate channel: green for nothing to declare, red for goods to declare. Baggage may be scanned or physically inspected.

Exit to Arrivals

After clearing customs, exit to the arrivals hall where you'll find currency exchange, ATMs, SIM card vendors, and transportation options including taxis, hotel shuttles, and car rentals.

Documents to Have Ready

Valid Passport

Must be valid for at least 6 months beyond your intended departure date from Tanzania. Must have at least 2 blank pages for stamps.

Visa or e-Visa Approval

Print copy of e-Visa approval or visa obtained from embassy. If obtaining visa on arrival, have USD cash ready for payment.

Yellow Fever Vaccination Certificate

Required if arriving from or having transited through a yellow fever endemic country. Must be the official International Certificate of Vaccination (yellow card). Vaccination must have been administered at least 10 days before arrival.

Return/Onward Ticket

Proof of onward travel may be requested by immigration officers. Have confirmation of return flight or ticket to next destination.

Accommodation Confirmation

Hotel reservation or invitation letter from host in Tanzania. May be requested to verify purpose and duration of stay.

Arrival/Departure Card

Immigration form typically distributed on the aircraft or available at immigration counters. Complete with accurate information about your stay.

Proof of Sufficient Funds

May be asked to demonstrate ability to support yourself during your stay. Credit cards, bank statements, or cash may be acceptable.

Tips for Smooth Entry

Apply for e-Visa at least 2 weeks before travel to avoid stress and potential delays. Print multiple copies of your e-Visa approval.

Have USD cash in good condition (new, clean bills without tears or marks) for visa-on-arrival fees if needed. Some banks and ATMs in the airport accept international cards.

Keep all important documents (passport, visa, yellow fever certificate, tickets) in an easily accessible place in your carry-on luggage.

Fill out arrival card completely and legibly before reaching immigration counter to speed up the process.

Be patient and polite with immigration officers. Answer questions honestly and concisely.

Take a photo of your passport information page and visa before traveling in case of loss.

Exchange a small amount of currency at the airport for immediate needs (taxis, tips), but better rates are typically available in the city.

Arrange airport transfer in advance through your hotel or reputable company, especially if arriving late at night.

Download offline maps of Dar es Salaam before arrival in case you don't have immediate internet access.

Keep customs declaration form until you exit the airport in case it needs to be presented again.

Customs & Duty-Free

Tanzania Customs operates at all entry points including Julius Nyerere International Airport. Travelers must declare certain items and are subject to duty-free allowances. Customs officers may inspect luggage, and failure to declare items can result in fines or confiscation.

Alcohol

1 liter of spirits or wine

Must be 18 years or older. Alcohol must be for personal consumption only. Quantities exceeding this limit are subject to duty.

Tobacco

200 cigarettes or 50 cigars or 250 grams of tobacco

Must be 18 years or older. For personal use only. Excess quantities will incur duty charges.

Perfume

Up to 250ml of perfume and eau de toilette combined

For personal use. Commercial quantities require declaration and duty payment.

Currency

Foreign currency exceeding USD $10,000 (or equivalent) must be declared

There is no limit on the amount of foreign currency you can bring in, but amounts over USD $10,000 must be declared on arrival. Tanzanian Shillings: up to TSh 200,000 can be imported or exported. Keep declaration form if you plan to take the same currency out when departing.

Gifts and Personal Effects

Personal effects and gifts up to USD $500 in value

Must be for personal use and not for commercial purposes. Items clearly for resale will be assessed for duty. Used personal items (clothing, toiletries, electronics for personal use) are typically not counted toward this limit.

Prohibited Items

Illegal drugs and narcotics - severe penalties including imprisonment
Firearms and ammunition without proper permits - must be declared and authorized
Pornographic materials - subject to confiscation
Counterfeit currency and goods - illegal to import
Endangered species products - ivory, rhino horn, turtle shells, etc. Tanzania has strict wildlife protection laws
Plastic bags (single-use) - Tanzania has banned plastic carrier bags. Do not bring them in your luggage
Explosives and hazardous materials - except as permitted by airline regulations
Obscene or seditious materials - subject to review and possible confiscation

Restricted Items

Plants and plant products - require phytosanitary certificate from country of origin. Agricultural items may be inspected or confiscated to prevent pest introduction
Animals and animal products - require veterinary health certificate and import permit from Tanzania Ministry of Livestock and Fisheries. See pet requirements for companion animals
Medications - prescription medications should be in original containers with prescriptions. Large quantities may require explanation. Controlled substances require special authorization
Drones and radio equipment - may require special permits from Tanzania Communications Regulatory Authority (TCRA). Declare at customs
Professional equipment - cameras, video equipment, laptops for commercial use may require temporary import permits or bonds
Cultural artifacts and antiquities - export of Tanzanian cultural property is strictly controlled. Do not attempt to bring in items that may be considered stolen cultural heritage

Health Requirements

Tanzania has specific health requirements for entry, primarily focused on yellow fever prevention. Additional vaccinations are recommended for traveler health but not required for entry. Health requirements may change based on global health situations.

Required Vaccinations

Yellow Fever - REQUIRED if arriving from or having transited through a yellow fever endemic country. The official International Certificate of Vaccination (yellow card) must be presented. Vaccination must have been administered at least 10 days before arrival. Countries include most of sub-Saharan Africa and parts of South America. This requirement is strictly enforced.
Yellow Fever - RECOMMENDED for all travelers over 9 months of age, even if not required for entry, as Tanzania is in a yellow fever endemic zone. Consider vaccination for your own protection.

Recommended Vaccinations

Routine vaccinations - Ensure you are up to date on routine vaccines including MMR, DPT, chickenpox, polio, and yearly flu shot
Hepatitis A - Recommended for all travelers as contaminated food or water exposure is possible
Hepatitis B - Recommended for travelers who may have sexual contact, get tattoos/piercings, or require medical procedures
Typhoid - Recommended, especially if visiting smaller cities, rural areas, or staying with friends/relatives
Malaria prophylaxis - Not a vaccine but antimalarial medication is strongly recommended. Dar es Salaam and coastal areas have malaria risk year-round. Consult travel medicine specialist for appropriate medication
Rabies - Consider for travelers with extensive outdoor activities, working with animals, or in areas with limited medical access
Cholera - Generally not recommended for most travelers but consider if visiting areas with active outbreaks or limited sanitation

Health Insurance

Travel health insurance with medical evacuation coverage is strongly recommended for all visitors to Tanzania. Medical facilities in Dar es Salaam are limited compared to Western standards, and serious medical conditions may require evacuation to Kenya or South Africa. Ensure your policy covers emergency medical treatment, hospitalization, and medical evacuation. Many hospitals and clinics require upfront payment or proof of insurance before treatment.

Current Health Requirements: Health requirements can change rapidly based on disease outbreaks and global health situations. Check current requirements for COVID-19 testing, vaccination, or quarantine with the Tanzanian Ministry of Health or your embassy before travel. Visit the CDC (US), NHS (UK), or your country's health authority website for the latest travel health notices for Tanzania. Consider consulting a travel medicine specialist 4-6 weeks before departure for personalized health advice and necessary vaccinations.

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Important Contacts

Essential resources for your trip.

Tanzania Immigration Services

Official immigration authority website for visa applications and information

Website: immigration.go.tz | e-Visa portal: eservices.immigration.go.tz | Email: info@immigration.go.tz

Emergency Services

Emergency contact numbers in Tanzania

Police: 112 or 999 | Ambulance: 114 or 115 | Fire: 114 or 115 | Tourist Police (Dar es Salaam): +255 22 211 8888

Julius Nyerere International Airport

Main international airport serving Dar es Salaam

Phone: +255 22 284 4433 | Website: taa.go.tz | Located approximately 12 km southwest of city center

Your Country's Embassy/Consulate

Contact your embassy in Tanzania for citizen services

Register with your embassy before travel. Most embassies are located in Dar es Salaam or Dodoma (capital). Check your government's travel advisory website for contact information and current travel warnings.

Tanzania Tourism Board

Official tourism information

Website: tanzaniatourism.go.tz | Email: info@tanzaniatourism.go.tz | Phone: +255 22 211 2244

Special Situations

Additional requirements for specific circumstances.

Traveling with Children

Children must have their own passport (cannot be included on parent's passport). Same visa requirements apply as for adults. If traveling with only one parent or without parents, carry a notarized letter of consent from the non-traveling parent(s) or legal guardian authorizing the child's travel. Birth certificate showing parental relationship may be required. Unaccompanied minors require special arrangements with airlines and may need additional documentation from Tanzanian immigration. Yellow fever vaccination is required for children over 9 months if arriving from endemic countries.

Traveling with Pets

Pets (dogs and cats) require an import permit from Tanzania Ministry of Livestock and Fisheries, obtained in advance. Veterinary health certificate issued within 7 days of travel is required. Pets must be vaccinated against rabies at least 30 days but not more than 12 months before entry. Microchip identification is recommended. Some airlines have specific pet travel requirements. Pets must enter through designated ports of entry. Quarantine is not usually required if all documentation is in order, but authorities may require it if health concerns exist. Contact the Tanzania Veterinary Services for current requirements: +255 22 286 1997.

Extended Stays

Tourist visas typically allow stays up to 90 days. For longer stays, you can apply for visa extension at Immigration Headquarters in Dar es Salaam (Ghana Avenue) or regional immigration offices before your visa expires. Extension is not guaranteed and requires justification. Alternatively, apply for a residence permit if you plan to work, study, or stay long-term. Residence permits require sponsorship (employer, educational institution, or spouse) and extensive documentation. Overstaying your visa can result in fines (USD $100+ per day), detention, deportation, and future entry bans. If you need to stay longer, plan ahead and apply for appropriate authorization.

Business Travelers

Business visitors can use tourist visa for short business activities (meetings, conferences, negotiations) but cannot engage in gainful employment. For actual work, a work permit is required in addition to a residence visa. Business visa (Class C) is available for multiple entries over 12 months for USD $250. Carry invitation letter from Tanzanian company or conference organizers. Business travelers may bring professional equipment (laptops, cameras) but should declare expensive items to avoid issues when departing. Consider obtaining a letter from your employer explaining the purpose of your visit.

Transit Passengers

Passengers transiting through Julius Nyerere International Airport without leaving the airport typically do not need a visa if staying less than 24 hours and holding confirmed onward tickets. If you wish to leave the airport during transit, you need a transit visa (USD $30 via e-Visa system) or regular tourist visa. Some nationalities may require transit visa even if staying airside - check current requirements. Ensure you have any visas required for your final destination.

Journalists and Media

Journalists and media professionals require special accreditation from Tanzania Media Services Department before arrival. Tourist visa is not sufficient for journalistic activities. Apply for accreditation through Tanzanian embassy in your country or directly with Media Services Department. Carry accreditation documents and press credentials at all times. Filming permits may be required for commercial filming. Unauthorized journalistic activities can result in deportation and equipment confiscation.

Students and Researchers

Students accepted to Tanzanian educational institutions need a student visa and residence permit. Requires acceptance letter from institution and proof of financial means. Research permits are required for academic or scientific research and must be obtained from Tanzania Commission for Science and Technology (COSTECH) before arrival. Tourist visa is not valid for study or research activities. Process can take several months, so apply well in advance.