Dual Citizens Applying for a Tanzania Visa

Tanzania is a stunning destination, attracting visitors for tourism, business, and family visits. However, for dual citizens, applying for a Tanzania eVisa can be more complicated due to the country’s nationality laws. Unlike many other nations, Tanzania does not officially recognize dual citizenship for adults. This means dual nationals must be cautious about how they apply for a visa or enter the country.

Does Tanzania Recognize Dual Citizenship?

Tanzania does not recognize dual citizenship. According to Tanzanian law, individuals who acquire citizenship of another country automatically lose their Tanzanian citizenship. This means that if you are a dual citizen and one of your nationalities is Tanzanian, you are no longer considered a Tanzanian citizen and must apply for Tanzania visa to enter the country as a foreign national. However, there are exceptions:

• Children under 18 are allowed to hold dual citizenship but must choose one nationality upon turning 18.
• Tanzanians who acquire foreign citizenship as adults automatically lose their Tanzanian citizenship unless they apply for special retention rights before naturalizing elsewhere.

Key takeaway: If you are a dual citizen with Tanzanian roots, you may need to clarify your citizenship status before applying for a visa.

Do Dual Citizens Need a Visa to Enter Tanzania?

Whether you need a visa depends on which passport you use to enter Tanzania.

Scenario 1: Entering Tanzania with a Foreign Passport

If you hold a foreign passport (e.g., from the U.S., UK, or Canada) and do not have Tanzanian citizenship, you must apply for a visa like any other foreigner.

•  You can apply for a Tanzania e-Visa, visa on arrival, or a business visa, depending on your travel purpose.

However, if you were born in Tanzania or previously held Tanzanian citizenship, immigration officials may question your status. In such cases, you might need to clarify whether you voluntarily renounce Tanzanian citizenship.

Scenario 2: Entering Tanzania with a Tanzanian Passport

If you have a Tanzanian passport, you do not need a visa to enter. However, Tanzania does not officially recognize your second nationality.

• If you use a Tanzanian passport, you should also use it when exiting the country to avoid legal complications.

Important Note: Using different passports to enter and exit Tanzania (e.g., entering with a Tanzanian passport but leaving with a foreign passport) can cause problems at immigration.

How Dual Citizens Can Apply for a Tanzania Visa

Dual citizens have specific options when applying for a Tanzania visa, as the process depends on which nationality they choose to use for entry. Here’s a breakdown:

Step 1: Determine Which Passport to Use

• If you plan to enter as a Tanzanian citizen, use your Tanzanian passport and avoid applying for a visa.
• If you enter as a foreign national, use your foreign passport and apply for a visa.

💡 Tip: If you previously held Tanzanian citizenship but lost it after acquiring another nationality, you must apply for a visa.

Step 2: Choose the Right Visa Type

If you are applying with a foreign passport, you need to select the appropriate visa:

Important: Work is not allowed on a tourist or business visa. If you plan to work in Tanzania, you must obtain a work and residence permit.

Step 3: Apply for a Visa Online (e-Visa System)

Tanzania offers an e-Visa system, which is the easiest way for dual citizens using a foreign passport to apply. 

How to Apply for a Tanzania e-Visa

• Visit the e-Visa Portal and Choose Your Visa Type: Go to the official e-Visa portal, and select the visa type that suits your trip (e.g., Single-Entry, Multiple-Entry, Business).

• Complete the Application and Upload Documents: Fill in your personal and travel details, then upload any required documents such as passport copies.

• Pay the Fee and Wait for Approval: Make the payment via credit/debit card or online banking, then wait up to 10 - 12 Working Days for your approval. Once approved, print your e-Visa for presentation at immigration.

Step 4: Entering Tanzania

At the airport or border, present:

• Your foreign passport with a valid e-Visa (if entering as a foreigner).
• A printed copy of your visa approval email.
• A return flight ticket (if required).

Tip: Be prepared for possible questions about your nationality if you have Tanzanian origins.

Difference Between Stay Duration and Validity of Tanzania e-Visa

Stay Duration

Stay duration refers to the length of time you are allowed to remain in Tanzania after entering the country. For most tourist visas, the stay duration is typically 90 days. It starts once you enter Tanzania and ends when you leave the country.

Validity

Validity refers to the period during which your visa is active and can be used for entry. For example, a Tanzania e-Visa may be valid for 90 days from the date of issue, meaning you can enter the country any time within that period. The visa expires if you don't enter Tanzania within the validity period.

Tanzania eVisa Requirements for Dual Citizens

For dual citizens applying for a Tanzania eVisa, the Tanzania eVisa requirements depend on the nationality of the passport you are using. Here’s a breakdown of what you need to know:

Which Passport to Use?

• If you hold Tanzanian citizenship (either by birth or naturalization), you do not need a visa to enter Tanzania, and therefore, the eVisa application does not apply.
• If you are a dual citizen and using your foreign passport (not Tanzanian), you must apply for a Tanzania eVisa as a foreign national.

Key eVisa Requirements for Dual Citizens Using Foreign Passports:

• Valid Passport: Your foreign passport must be valid for at least six months beyond your intended date of arrival in Tanzania.

• Passport-Sized Photograph: A recent passport-sized photo of yourself (usually with a white background).

• Travel Itinerary: Proof of your travel plans, including your flight details to Tanzania and accommodation bookings.

• Proof of Sufficient Funds: Evidence that you can financially support your stay in Tanzania (such as bank statements or an invitation letter).

• Payment of Visa Fee: The visa fee must be paid online via the eVisa portal using a credit or debit card.

Can Dual Citizens Apply for a Tanzania Visa on Arrival or Must They Use the eVisa?

Dual citizens can apply for a Tanzania Visa on Arrival or use the eVisa, depending on their preference and the specific circumstances. Here's how each option works for dual citizens:

1. Tanzania Visa on Arrival

• Dual citizens are eligible to apply for a visa on arrival at Tanzania airports or land border posts.
• This option offers flexibility since you don't need to apply in advance. However, you’ll need to provide relevant documents (passport, travel itinerary, etc.) upon arrival.
• The visa on arrival process can sometimes involve longer wait times due to queues, so it's best to plan accordingly.

2. Tanzania eVisa

• eVisa is a more streamlined option that allows dual citizens to apply for their visa online before traveling.
• Applying for the eVisa ahead of time can save you time at the airport, providing faster and guaranteed entry if your application is approved.
• The eVisa process is more efficient and less prone to unexpected delays, making it the preferred choice for many travelers.

Which Option is Better?

Tanzania eVisa is generally recommended as it ensures faster processing and gives you peace of mind before your travel. However, if you’re uncertain about your travel plans, the Visa on Arrival offers more flexibility.

How Dual Citizens Can Avoid Common Mistakes When Applying for a Tanzania Visa

Here are some tips to help dual citizens avoid common mistakes when applying for a Tanzania visa:

What are the restrictions for a Tanzania eVisa?

Here are some restrictions to keep in mind when applying for a Tanzania eVisa:

1. Travel Purpose: eVisa is only for tourism, business, or transit. Other purposes like work or study need a different visa.
2. Validity: Tanzania eVisa is for single-entry or multiple-entry for up to 90 days.
3. Country Restrictions: Some countries cannot apply for eVisa and must go through a consulate.
4. Arrival Restrictions: Tanzania eVisa holders must enter through designated airports or land borders.
5. Passport Validity: Your passport must be valid for at least 6 months from the date of arrival.
6. Length of Stay: You can stay up to 90 days; overstaying can lead to penalties.
7. Application Errors: Any errors in the application may lead to rejection and require you to reapply.

Final Thoughts

Applying for a Tanzania visa as a dual citizen depends on which passport you choose to use.

✔ ️ If you enter with a Tanzanian passport → No visa needed, but you must exit with the same passport.
✔ If you enter with a foreign passport → Apply for a visa online or on arrival before entering Tanzania.

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.