Tanzania Business Visa and Referral Visa

The Tanzania Business Visa is used by foreign nationals travelling to Tanzania for business-related activities such as meetings, consultancy work, seminars, temporary assignments, audits, professional services, or commercial engagements of a short-term nature. The visa does not permit permanent employment in Tanzania, although limited temporary work activities may be permitted for periods of up to three months.

Tanzania distinguishes between standard business visa applicants and nationals who require a Referral Visa. Referral Visas apply to nationals of specific countries who must obtain special clearance from the Principal Commissioner of Immigration Services before a visa may be issued.

Business Visas may be issued as single-entry or multiple-entry visas. Single-entry visas are generally valid for three months, while multiple-entry visas may be issued for three, six, or twelve months, provided that no individual stay exceeds 90 consecutive days.

Last updated: 07/05/2026

Applications for Tanzania Business Visas and Referral Visas require supporting documentation confirming the purpose of travel, business activities, and immigration eligibility.

General requirements include:

• A valid passport
• Completed visa application form
• Passport-sized photographs
• Travel itinerary or return travel details
• Proof of accommodation or local contact details in Tanzania

Business Visa applications generally require:

• An invitation letter from the Tanzanian host entity
• Contact details of the Tanzanian host or business contact
• A description or itinerary of the activities to be undertaken in Tanzania
• Supporting business or consultancy documentation where applicable

Referral Visa applicants must undergo an additional clearance process before the visa can be issued. Nationals from certain countries, including Afghanistan, Morocco, Ethiopia, Eritrea, Somalia, and others listed by the immigration authorities, must apply for a Referral Visa before travelling to Tanzania.

Business Visa requirements may vary depending on nationality and whether the applicant is applying before travel or at the port of entry.

The processing time depends on the visa category, nationality of the applicant, and whether referral clearance is required.

Business Visa processing:

Standard Business Visas are generally processed within approximately 5 to 10 working days. In some cases, eligible applicants may obtain the visa immediately upon arrival at the port of entry.

Referral Visa processing:

Referral Visas generally require approximately 4 to 6 weeks for adjudication because special approval must first be obtained from the Principal Commissioner of Immigration Services.

Tanzania’s E-Immigration platform also allows applicants to submit visa applications electronically before travel.

Tanzania’s immigration fee structure is regarded as one of the more expensive systems in the region, and fees vary depending on nationality, visa type, and method of application.

Business Visa fees:

Applicants obtaining a Business Visa at the port of entry may be required to pay approximately USD 250, depending on nationality and visa category.

Multiple-entry visa fees:

Fees for multiple-entry visas may vary depending on the duration and nationality of the applicant.

Referral Visa fees:

Referral Visa fees may differ depending on the nationality involved and the additional administrative review required.

Applicants should confirm all applicable government fees and accepted payment methods before submission or travel.

Applications for Tanzania Business Visas and Referral Visas may be submitted online, through Tanzanian missions abroad, or at the port of entry where eligible.

Step 1: Determine visa eligibility

The applicant should determine whether they qualify for visa exemption, visa on arrival, standard Business Visa processing, or Referral Visa processing.

Step 2: Gather supporting documentation

The applicant prepares all required documents, including invitation letters, business itineraries, travel details, and passport documentation.

Step 3: Submit the application

The application may be submitted through Tanzania’s E-Immigration platform, through a Tanzanian mission abroad, or at the port of entry where permitted.

Step 4: Await adjudication or referral clearance

Standard Business Visa applications are generally processed quickly, while Referral Visa applicants must first obtain clearance from the Principal Commissioner of Immigration Services.

Step 5: Travel and comply with visa conditions

Once issued, the applicant may travel to Tanzania and undertake only the activities authorised under the visa category granted.