Tanzania Visa on Arrival for Zanzibar
Planning to explore the white sands of Zanzibar? Learn how the Tanzania visa on arrival works, who qualifies, and why the Tanzania eVisa might be a better choice.
Features:
- Available to citizens of many countries upon arrival at Zanzibar Airport
- Costs typically range from $50 to $100, depending on your nationality
- Alternative option: Apply for a Tanzania eVisa before you travel
- Quick process with limited documentation required
- Accepted at Zanzibar Abeid Amani Karume International Airport

What Is the Tanzania Visa on Arrival for Zanzibar?
Tanzania offers a visa on arrival option at Zanzibar’s Abeid Amani Karume International Airport, making it easy for travelers who didn’t get a visa beforehand. This facility allows eligible tourists to get a visa right after landing, skipping any pre-departure paperwork.
While it’s convenient, travelers may face long queues and delays. It’s best for spontaneous travel or emergencies, but not ideal if you prefer a smoother entry. For added convenience and to avoid waiting in line, many travelers now opt for the Tanzania eVisa.
Eligibility and Entry Requirements for the Visa on Arrival Tanzania
Not every traveler qualifies for a Tanzania visa on arrival. You must be a citizen of a country listed under Tanzania’s visa-on-arrival policy. Most EU countries, the US, Canada, Australia, and many Asian nations are included. At the airport, you’ll need a valid passport (with at least 6 months' validity), a return or onward ticket, proof of accommodation, and a visa fee in cash.
Sometimes, immigration officers may ask for additional documents such as a Yellow Fever certificate. Though the visa on arrival is available, the Tanzania eVisa is more reliable and speeds up your arrival process.
Tanzania Multiple Entry Visa: Should You Consider It?
If you plan to enter Tanzania more than once in a short period, say, combining Zanzibar with mainland safaris or neighboring countries, a Tanzania multiple-entry visa may be better. It allows travelers to move in and out of the country without applying for a new visa each time.
The multiple-entry visa is valid for up to 12 months and is especially useful for business travelers or regional explorers. While it can be issued on arrival in some cases, applying through the Tanzania eVisa portal guarantees approval before you travel and reduces hassle.
Why Many Travelers Choose the Tanzania eVisa Over Visa on Arrival
Though getting a Tanzania visa on arrival for Zanzibar is simple, it’s not always smooth. You may face queues, cash-only fees, and language barriers. That’s why thousands of travelers are switching to the Tanzania eVisa. The eVisa can be applied for online in under a few minutes.
Once approved, you receive your visa via email, and all you need is a printout upon arrival. The eVisa supports both single and multiple entry options and is accepted at all major entry points, including Zanzibar. It gives peace of mind, avoids long waits, and helps you start your vacation stress-free.