Tanzania, a country known for its breathtaking landscapes, diverse wildlife, and rich cultural heritage, has become an increasingly popular travel destination for Chinese nationals. To facilitate smooth entry into the country, Tanzania offers an electronic visa (eVisa) system, allowing Chinese travelers to apply online and obtain their visas before arrival.
The Tanzania eVisa is an official electronic travel authorization that allows Chinese passport holders to enter Tanzania for tourism, business, or transit without needing to visit an embassy or consulate. The application process is entirely online, making it a convenient and efficient way to obtain a visa before traveling.
To apply, travelers must fill out an online form, upload the required documents, and pay the visa fee. Once approved, the eVisa is sent via email and must be presented upon arrival at Tanzania entry points.
Chinese travelers visiting Tanzania can apply for different types of eVisas, depending on their purpose of travel. Below are the main eVisa options available for Chinese nationals:
Visa Type |
Purpose |
Validity |
Maximum Stay per Entry |
Best Suited For |
Single-Entry Tourist Visa |
Tourism, leisure, short-term medical treatment |
Up to 90 days |
90 days |
Tourists, short-term visitors |
Multiple-Entry Tourist Visa |
Frequent travel for tourism, business, or family visits |
12 months |
90 days per visit |
Frequent travelers, businesspersons, or those with family in Tanzania |
Transit Visa |
Short stopover while traveling to another country |
Up to 7 days |
7 days |
Travelers with layovers or short business meetings |
Business Visa |
Business-related activities (meetings, conferences, investments) |
Up to 90 days |
90 days |
Business travelers and investors |
Chinese nationals applying for a Tanzania eVisa must submit the following documents:
Applying for a Tanzanian eVisa is a straightforward process that can be completed entirely online. Chinese nationals need to follow these steps:
Complete the Online Application | Fill out the visa application form with accurate personal details, passport information, and travel plans. |
Submit Required Documents | Upload necessary documents. Ensure clarity, correct formatting, and compliance with system requirements to avoid delays or rejection. |
Make the Payment | Pay visa fees online using internationally accepted credit or debit cards. Fees vary based on visa type. |
Submit the Application | After completing the form and uploading all required documents, submit the eVisa request for processing. |
Once the form is completed and all required documents are uploaded, applicants can submit their eVisa request for processing.
The processing time for a Tanzania eVisa is usually 10 - 12 Working Days, but travelers are advised to apply at least two weeks before departure to avoid any delays. Once approved, the eVisa is sent via email, and applicants must print a copy to present upon arrival at Tanzania entry points. Failure to present a printed eVisa may result in entry delays or complications at immigration. It is also recommended to double-check all visa details upon receiving it to ensure there are no errors. Keeping a digital backup of the eVisa on a mobile device can be helpful in case the printed copy is misplaced.
Chinese citizens can apply for an urgent Tanzania eVisa by selecting a faster processing option during the application process. Tanzania offers three processing speeds, allowing travelers to choose based on their urgency and budget:
To ensure a smooth and timely approval, Chinese travelers should submit accurate and complete documents, check for updates on their application status, and apply as early as possible. If travel is extremely urgent, a visa on arrival may be an alternative, but this can involve longer wait times.
The cost of a Tanzania eVisa for Chinese passport holders depends on several factors, including the type of visa, number of entries, and processing speed selected. Tanzania offers different eVisa categories, such as single-entry tourist visas, multiple-entry visas, transit visas, and business visas, each with its own fee structure.
To determine the exact Tanzania eVisa fee, applicants should visit the Tanzania eVisa fee page, which provides an updated fee-checking tool. This allows travelers to verify the visa cost based on their specific travel purpose, urgency, and duration of stay before proceeding with the application.
Chinese citizens traveling to Tanzania with an eVisa must meet certain entry requirements to ensure a smooth arrival. Below are the key requirements:
Chinese travelers must enter Tanzania through designated entry points, such as:
Chinese citizens who plan to live in Tanzania need to obtain the right visa or permit based on their purpose of stay. Below are the key visa options:
Visa Type |
Purpose |
Key Requirements |
Validity |
Residence Permit |
For work, business, study, or family reunification |
Must secure a job or have an approved business before applying |
Typically 1–2 years, renewable |
Work Visa & Permit |
For employment in Tanzania |
Requires both a work permit (Ministry of Labor) and a residence permit (Immigration Services) |
Usually issued for 1–2 years, renewable |
Investor Visa |
For business owners and investors |
Apply for a Class A Residence Permit to manage a business in Tanzania |
Valid for 1–2 years, renewable |
Student Visa |
For studying in Tanzania institutions |
Must apply for a Student Pass before arrival |
Valid for the duration of the study program |
Most residence permits are issued for 1–2 years and are renewable. Overstaying or working on a tourist visa can result in fines or deportation, so it's essential to follow immigration regulations.
The Tanzania eVisa application provides Chinese citizens with an easy way of obtaining a visa before their trip. As long as they follow the stipulated requirements and stick to the given application process, Chinese visitors will find it easy to access Tanzania. Regardless of whether they are tourists, business travelers, or transit passengers, obtaining an eVisa beforehand ensures an easy trip, which allows the visitors to experience all the natural and cultural heritage that Tanzania provides.
Yes, Chinese passport holders must obtain a Tanzania eVisa before traveling, as they are not eligible for visa-free entry.
Yes, the Tanzania eVisa is valid for entry into Zanzibar, as well as mainland Tanzania.
Travel insurance is not mandatory but is highly recommended to cover medical emergencies, trip cancellations, and lost belongings.
Extensions may be possible for certain visa types. Travelers can apply for an e-Visa extension at the Tanzania Immigration Office before their current visa expires. Approval is subject to immigration discretion.
Content Disclaimer: While this information was last updated in March 2025, we strongly suggest confirming all travel details with the appropriate governmental agencies, embassies, and airlines.