Is it better to avoid a visa on arrival in Tanzania?

When travelling to Zanzibar, it's essential to be aware of the different visa options available to you. Making the right choice can save you time and avoid complications on arrival. We'll therefore give you an overview of the process of applying for a visa on arrival at Zanzibar airport, highlighting the documents required, the associated fees and average waiting times. We'll also explain why it may be worth considering applying for your visa before you leave.

Applying for a visa online offers a number of advantages, including simplicity and convenience, generally faster processing times, and the ability to avoid queues and potential complications at the airport.

Visa on arrival in Tanzania: in brief

• Airports: Visa on arrival is only issued at the international airports of Dar es Salaam, Zanzibar, Kilimanjaro and Namanga (border with Kenya).
• Cost: The price of a visa on arrival is USD 50 (approximately EUR 45) (depending on the exchange rate).
• Validity: The visa on arrival is valid for a maximum stay of 90 days and allows a single entry.
• Documents required: To obtain a visa on arrival, you must have a passport valid for at least 6 months remaining to the date of exit from Tanzania, a return air ticket and proof of sufficient funds to cover your stay.
• Recommendation: It is best to apply for an e-visa online before you travel. This will allow you to avoid queues at the airport and save time.

→ eVisa Tanzania before departure ←

Overview of visa on arrival in Zanzibar

When you arrive at Zanzibar airport, you can apply for a visa on arrival. However, it is important to understand the process and its implications.

• Visa on arrival process: On arrival at Zanzibar airport, you will need to go to the visa counter. This is where you will get the visa application form to fill in. Make sure you have all the required documents before you go to the counter.
• Documents and fees required: To obtain a visa on arrival, you will need to present certain documents such as a valid passport, a recent passport photo and the visa fee in cash. Fees may vary depending on the length of stay and the type of visa requested. It is important to check the exact fees with official sources before you travel.
• Waiting time for visas: It is important to note that the waiting time for visas on arrival at Zanzibar airport can vary. This depends on the number of travellers at the airport and the time required to process each application. Allow extra time for this stage.
• Payment in cash only: An important feature to bear in mind is that payment of visa fees on arrival in Zanzibar can only be made in cash. So make sure you have the exact amount in local currency available before you arrive at the airport.

Can all travellers obtain a visa on arrival in Zanzibar, Tanzania?

In principle, most travellers can obtain a visa on arrival in Zanzibar, which is part of Tanzania. It is essential to check the specific requirements according to your nationality before leaving. In addition, travellers must ensure that they meet the other entry criteria, such as the validity of their passport (at least six months after the date of arrival) and have a return ticket or itinerary.

Do I need to fill in a specific form to obtain a visa on arrival in Zanzibar?

To obtain a visa on arrival in Zanzibar, you generally need to fill in a visa application form at the airport. This form asks for personal information, details of your stay and your passport. Although this form is quick and easy to complete, it is advisable to have it ready in advance to avoid any delays. You will also need to provide a recent passport photo, as well as the other documents required, such as proof of sufficient funds and a return ticket. Check specific information with the local authorities or your airline before you leave.

What should I do if my visa on arrival is rejected in Zanzibar, Tanzania?

If your visa on arrival is rejected in Zanzibar, it is important to remain calm and ask the immigration officer for an explanation. The refusal may be due to a lack of documents, an invalid passport or entry criteria not being met. In this case, you may be able to apply for a visa from the Tanzanian embassy or consulate in another country. It is also advisable to contact your airline to arrange a return flight. To avoid this situation, it is advisable to find out about the requirements before travelling.

Advantages of applying for a visa before departure

Applying for a visa before you leave has many advantages over applying for a visa on arrival at Zanzibar airport. Here are some reasons to consider this option:

• Simplicity and convenience of the online process: Applying for a visa online is generally a simple and user-friendly process. You can fill in the application form from the comfort of your home or any other place with an Internet connection. This saves you having to do it on arrival, where you may be tired after a long flight.
• Faster processing times: Online visa applications are often processed faster than applications on arrival at the airport. The consular authorities have more time to examine your application in advance, which reduces waiting times. By obtaining your visa before departure, you can be sure of arriving in Zanzibar with your approved visa in hand.
• Avoid queues and complications at the airport: During busy periods, the wait at Zanzibar airport can be long and tedious, especially if you have to complete the visa application form on arrival. By opting to apply for your visa online, you can avoid additional queues and possible complications linked to the availability of forms or payment facilities at the airport.

Reasons for avoiding a visa on arrival in Zanzibar

Although it is possible to apply for a visa on arrival at Zanzibar airport, there are certain disadvantages and risks associated with this option. Here are a few things to bear in mind:

• Potential delays due to large numbers of travellers: At certain times of the year, Zanzibar airport can experience large numbers of travellers, which can lead to delays in processing visa applications on arrival. This can prolong your wait at the airport and affect your travel itinerary.
• Possible problems with the availability of application forms and payment equipment: You may encounter problems with the availability of visa application forms on arrival at the airport. There may also be difficulties with payment equipment, which can lead to complications with your visa application. These factors can lead to further delays and frustration.
• Risk of visa refusal on arrival: Although visa applications on arrival are usually approved, there is always a risk of refusal on arrival. A visa refusal can lead to complications and inconvenience, including the need to take alternative measures to enter the country or even having to return to your place of departure. This can cause significant disruption to your travel plans.

Tanzania visa application process online

If you want to avoid the hassle of applying for a visa on arrival in Zanzibar, the best option is to apply for your visa online before you leave. Here are the general steps you need to follow to apply for your visa online:

• Access the official website or an online visa application website: Go to the official website of the government or an online visa application agency.
• Fill in the online visa application form: Follow the instructions carefully and fill in the online visa application form with the required information. Be accurate and complete when entering your personal details and travel details.
• Submit your application and pay the associated fees: Once you have completed the form, submit it online and pay the visa fees. Fees may vary depending on the length of stay and the type of visa requested. Make sure you have a valid method of payment, such as a credit or debit card.
• Wait for confirmation and print out your approved visa: Once you have submitted your application, you will usually receive confirmation that it has been received. Processing times vary, but online visa applications are often processed quickly. Once your visa has been approved, you will receive an e-visa or travel authorisation. Print it out and keep it with you when you travel. This will avoid potential problems on arrival in Zanzibar.