Tanzania Immigration and Visas

Tanzania operates a structured immigration framework separating work authorisation from residence authorisation. Foreign nationals intending to work in Tanzania must generally obtain both a valid work permit issued by the Labour Commission and a corresponding residence permit issued by the Immigration Department.

The Tanzanian immigration framework is primarily governed by the Non-Citizen (Employment Regulation) Act No. 1 of 2015 and the Immigration Act No. 7 of 1995. Since the reforms introduced in 2015 and 2016, Tanzania has implemented a more formalised immigration system with separate permit categories for business visitors, short-term work, long-term employment, investment, residence, and dependants.

Tanzania also operates an electronic immigration platform allowing applications for visas and residence permits to be processed online. Processing times, permit categories, and application procedures vary depending on the immigration route selected.

Last updated: 07/05/2026

Tanzania distinguishes clearly between short-term business travel, temporary assignments, long-term employment, investment activity, and residence status.

Business Visas are used for meetings, consultancy work, seminars, audits, temporary assignments, and other short-term commercial activities. Temporary work may be permitted for periods of up to three months under the Business Visa structure.

Referral Visas apply to nationals of specific countries who require additional immigration clearance before travelling to Tanzania.

Short-Term Work Permits allow temporary work assignments for periods of up to six months and replaced the former Carry-on Temporary Assignment (CTA) framework.

Long-Term Work Permits are divided into several categories, including:

• Class B – prescribed professions such as healthcare, oil and gas, education, and technical specialists
• Class C – professions not falling under Class B
• Class D – religious and charitable activities

Residence Permits are issued separately from work permits and cover employment, dependants, students, retirees, researchers, and long-term lawful stay.

Class A Permits apply to investors and entrepreneurs establishing or operating businesses in Tanzania.

Tanzania requires detailed supporting documentation for most immigration applications. Requirements vary depending on the visa or permit category involved.

Common immigration requirements include:

• A valid passport
• Completed immigration application forms
• Passport-sized photographs
• Invitation letters or supporting institutional documentation
• Employment contracts or business documentation
• Academic and professional qualifications
• Proof of financial support or investment activity

Employment-based applications generally require employers to provide a succession plan demonstrating how skills and responsibilities will eventually be transferred to Tanzanian nationals.

Tanzania also increasingly requires foreign qualifications to undergo review through the TCU verification process, particularly for professional and skilled employment applications.

Processing times in Tanzania depend on the visa category, nationality of the applicant, and the authorities involved in adjudication.

Typical processing timelines include:

• Business Visa: approximately 5 to 10 working days or on arrival where eligible
• Referral Visa: approximately 4 to 6 weeks
• Class B Work Permit: approximately 6 weeks
• Class C Work Permit: approximately 6 weeks
• Class D Permit: approximately 3 months
• Class A Investor Permit: approximately 4 to 6 months

Residence permit processing generally follows the approval of the underlying work permit or immigration status.

Applications involving investors, regulated professions, or additional immigration clearance may require review by multiple authorities.

Tanzania operates one of the more formalised immigration systems in East Africa and places significant emphasis on labour market protection, succession planning, and economic contribution.

Work permits and residence permits are separate processes, meaning foreign nationals must maintain compliance with both forms of authorisation throughout their stay in Tanzania.

Succession planning requirements are an important part of Tanzanian immigration policy. Employers are expected to demonstrate how local Tanzanian employees will eventually replace foreign nationals occupying skilled positions.

Dependants are restricted from working or studying independently unless they separately qualify for the appropriate permit category.

Tanzania also does not recognise life partnerships or same-sex relationships for immigration purposes.