Tanzania Visa Requirements For British Citizens (2025]

For British citizens travelling to Tanzania (including Zanzibar) right now, this article explores the up‑to‑date entry and visa requirements.

Tanzania Visa Requirements For British Citizens

Your UK passport must be valid for at least 6 months from your arrival date.
It must include at least one blank page for entry/exit stamps.

Visa requirements

e‑Visa (recommended)

Mandatory for all UK citizens unless exempt (UK is not exempt).
Apply online via the official Tanzanian eVisa portal: visa.immigration.go.tz. No in‑person embassy visit is needed.
You can apply for:
- Single-entry visa (Up to 90 days stay) – fee approx. US $50 (~£40).
- Multiple-entry visa valid 12 months, stays up to 90 days each – fee approx. US $100.
Processing typically takes 10 working days; submit at least 2–3 weeks before travel.

Visa on arrival

Still available at major entry points (airports or land borders) for single-entry 90‑day visas. Fee: US $50 in cash or card (USD preferred).
Note: this can involve long queues and multiple steps, whereas e‑Visa holders go straight to passport control.
No multiple-entry visas on arrival—these must be applied online.

Application requirements

To apply via the e‑Visa portal, be ready to submit:

Passport bio data page scan (passport valid 6+ months, blank page)
Passport‑style photo
Return or onward flight booking
Proof of accommodation
Optionally, invitation letter (for business)

Health & insurance

Yellow fever certificate required only if you’ve recently been in a high-risk country (e.g. Nigeria, Kenya), including long transit stays. Otherwise, generally not needed.
Zanzibar requires mandatory local travel insurance purchased from Zanzibar Insurance Corporation (ZIC), valid up to 92 days, at about US $44 per person (roughly £34). This is separate from international policies and must be purchased via Visit Zanzibar. Starting from September 1, 2024 it is enforced strictly.
Be prepared to show proof at entry in Zanzibar or risk denial.

Summary Table

Requirement	Details
Passport validity	≥ 6 months from arrival, plus 1 blank page
Visa required	Yes — tourist or business
E‑Visa (single-entry)	US $50, valid up to 90 days
E‑Visa (multiple-entry)	US $100, valid 12 months (90-day per trip)
Visa processing time	~10 working days; apply at least 2–3 weeks ahead
Visa on arrival	Available for US $50 cash (single entry only); slower
Yellow fever vaccination	Required if coming from/transiting high-risk countries
Zanzibar travel insurance	Mandatory US $44 from ZIC for all non‑residents

Does British Citizens Needs Visa To Travel To Tanzania?

Yes — British citizens do need a visa to travel to Tanzania, whether for tourism or business.

How Long Does It Takes For A British Citizen To Get Tanzania Visa?

For a British citizen, obtaining a Tanzania visa is generally quick and straightforward.

Visa Processing Time for British Citizens:

e-Visa (Online Application)

Processing Time: Usually 3 to 10 working days
How to Apply: Via the official Tanzanian Immigration website: https://visa.immigration.go.tz
Recommended: Apply at least 2 weeks in advance to avoid delays.

Visa on Arrival

Processing Time: Immediate upon arrival (can take 30 minutes to a few hours depending on airport traffic)
Where: Major entry points like Julius Nyerere International Airport (Dar es Salaam) or Kilimanjaro International Airport

What Do You Need As A British Citizen To Move To Tanzania

Moving to Tanzania as a British citizen can be a life-changing experience filled with adventure, cultural discovery, and personal growth. Whether you’re drawn to the stunning wildlife of the Serengeti, the white sandy beaches of Zanzibar, or the vibrant energy of Dar es Salaam, relocating to this East African nation offers a unique and rich lifestyle far removed from the fast-paced cities of the UK. While the official requirements and documentation are important, it’s equally essential to understand the practical, emotional, and cultural aspects of such a move.

Tanzania’s culture is deeply rooted in community values, tradition, and respect. Life here tends to move at a slower, more deliberate pace than what many British citizens may be used to. This change in rhythm can be refreshing if you’re open to adapting. People are generally warm, welcoming, and eager to engage, especially if you make an effort to learn Swahili—the national language. Even just basic greetings can go a long way in forming connections and gaining respect from locals.

While English is widely spoken in urban areas and in business settings, rural regions operate largely in Swahili, so learning the language isn’t just helpful—it’s a sign of cultural appreciation. The more you engage with the local culture, from food to festivals to family traditions, the more integrated and fulfilling your experience will be.

Deciding where to live in Tanzania depends on what you’re looking for. Dar es Salaam is the economic capital, bustling with activity, traffic, and opportunities in various sectors. Arusha and Moshi, closer to Mount Kilimanjaro, offer cooler climates and are hubs for tourism and conservation work. Zanzibar, with its relaxed beach lifestyle and historical richness, attracts those seeking a slower pace of life. Each region has its own rhythm, appeal, and challenges.

Accommodation options range from modern apartments in high-rise buildings to standalone homes and traditional houses. While cities offer more developed infrastructure, rural areas can provide a deeper sense of community and a more immersive cultural experience. Keep in mind that amenities may vary—electricity and internet access can be inconsistent in some areas.

Living in Tanzania comes with its own set of adjustments. Public transportation is widely used, especially dala-dalas (local minibuses), which are inexpensive but often crowded. Taxis and ride-hailing apps like Bolt or Uber operate in larger cities. If you plan to drive, you’ll need to become familiar with local traffic rules and conditions, which may be quite different from the UK.

Grocery shopping is a mix of local markets—where fresh produce, spices, and meats are sold at very affordable prices—and supermarkets that stock imported goods. Eating out is common and generally inexpensive, especially if you enjoy local dishes like ugali, nyama choma, or pilau. Dining habits may vary, but food often brings people together, whether at home or in public spaces.

Healthcare in Tanzania includes both public and private facilities. Larger cities tend to have better-equipped hospitals and clinics. It’s common for expats to use private healthcare services, which offer higher standards of care. Having international health insurance is strongly advised, even though many treatments are relatively affordable by Western standards.

Building Community and Purpose

One of the most rewarding aspects of moving to Tanzania is becoming part of a community. Whether you’re working, volunteering, starting a business, or simply enjoying retirement, you’ll find opportunities to contribute, share your skills, and learn from others. Joining expat groups, local clubs, religious communities, or NGOs can help you build meaningful connections.

Work opportunities for foreigners exist in sectors like education, tourism, development, and business. Remote work is increasingly viable with the rise of digital nomadism, though stable internet may be a concern in some areas. For retirees or those seeking a quieter lifestyle, Tanzania offers an affordable and peaceful environment, especially in coastal or rural regions.

Conclusion

Living in Tanzania offers not just a change in scenery, but a transformation in how you see the world. Daily life may come with challenges—power cuts, bureaucratic delays, or differences in expectations—but these also become opportunities for growth. Patience, flexibility, and openness are crucial attributes.

The experience allows for an incredible cultural exchange. You’ll witness and participate in traditions that date back centuries, and you’ll likely gain a deeper appreciation for things often taken for granted. From witnessing the great migration in the Serengeti to attending a local wedding, every moment has the potential to be unforgettable.