Tanzania Visa for Norwegian Citizens 2026: Requirements & How to Apply
Norwegian citizens require an eVisa to enter Tanzania, costing $50 USD for a single-entry tourist visa valid for 90 days. Apply online at the official immigration portal; processing takes 10–15 working days.
Do Norwegian Citizens Need a Visa for Tanzania?
Yes. Norwegian citizens require a visa to enter Tanzania.[1] You cannot enter without one, even for tourism. Tanzania offers two main visa options: an eVisa (electronic visa applied online in advance) and a visa on arrival (obtained at the airport or border). Most travellers choose the eVisa for speed and convenience.
Visa Types for Norwegian Travellers
1. Tourist eVisa (Ordinary Visa)
The most common choice for Norwegian tourists visiting Tanzania.
- Cost: $50 USD[2]
- Validity: 90 days from date of issue[3]
- Stay duration: Up to 90 consecutive days from entry[3]
- Entries: Single entry only
- Purpose: Tourism, visiting friends and family, business meetings
- Processing: 10–15 working days (standard); 7–10 working days (rush, +$50); 5–7 working days (super rush, +$99)[4]
2. Multiple Entry eVisa
For travellers planning multiple trips within 12 months.
- Cost: $100 USD[2]
- Validity: 12 months from issue
- Stay per entry: Up to 90 days per visit
- Total entries: Multiple
- Processing: 10–15 working days (standard)
3. Visa on Arrival
You can obtain a single-entry tourist visa at Tanzania's main ports of entry (airports, land borders) if you meet all requirements, though wait times range from 30 minutes to over 2 hours.[3] This option is not recommended if you have tight travel schedules.
Step-by-Step eVisa Application for Norwegian Citizens
Step 1: Prepare Your Documents
Before applying, gather the following:
- Valid passport: Must be valid for at least 6 months beyond your expected departure date from Tanzania and contain at least 2 blank pages[5]
- Passport biographical page: A colour scan or photo of the main data page (high quality, JPG or JPEG format, max 500KB)[6]
- Passport photo: Recent colour photograph meeting Tanzania's strict specifications (see below)
- Return or onward ticket: Proof of your departure from Tanzania (airline booking, e-ticket, or itinerary)
- Email address: For visa approval delivery
- Credit or debit card: For online payment
Passport Photo Requirements
Tanzania's photo requirements are strict and rejections are common if not followed precisely.[6]
- Dimensions: 45 mm (length) × 35 mm (width)
- File size: Maximum 500 KB
- Format: JPG or JPEG only
- Background: Plain white or light-coloured background (no patterns, shadows, or distracting elements)
- Head position: Full face from top of hair to bottom of chin, facing directly at the camera
- Eyes: Open, natural expression
- Colour: Full colour only (black and white rejected)
- Head coverings: Not permitted except for genuine religious reasons; facial features from chin to forehead and both edges of face must be fully visible
- Glasses: Permitted if worn regularly; no glare or reflections on lenses
Step 2: Visit the Official eVisa Portal
Go to the official Tanzania Immigration Department eVisa portal at eservices.immigration.go.tz.[5] Avoid third-party visa websites; they charge higher fees ($100–200+) for the same service and may introduce delays.
Step 3: Complete the Online Application Form
Create an account and fill in the application form with:
- Full name (as it appears in your passport)
- Passport number and issue/expiry dates
- Date of birth
- Nationality (Norway)
- Email address
- Planned entry date and port of entry
- Accommodation details (hotel name and address, or contact details of friends/family)
- Visa type (tourist/ordinary or multiple entry)
- Processing speed (normal, rush, or super rush)
Critical: Double-check all information before submission. Errors can cause rejection.
Step 4: Upload Required Documents
- Colour scan of your passport's biographical data page (JPG/JPEG, max 500 KB)
- Colour passport photograph meeting specifications above (JPG/JPEG, max 500 KB)
Ensure scans are clear, well-lit, and fully legible. Blurry or partial scans are common rejection reasons.
Step 5: Pay the Visa Fee
The portal accepts international credit and debit cards (Visa, Mastercard). The fee is non-refundable even if your application is rejected. Save your payment receipt.
Step 6: Receive Your eVisa
Once approved, you'll receive a PDF visa grant notice by email. Print this document and carry it with you to immigration. It is your proof of approval; you do not receive a physical stamp or sticker in your passport until arrival.
Visa Fees & Payment Methods
| Visa Type | Base Fee (USD) | Processing Speed | Additional Cost | Total Cost (USD) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Tourist (Single Entry) | $50 | Normal (10–15 days) | None | $50 |
| Tourist (Single Entry) | $50 | Rush (7–10 days) | +$50 | $100 |
| Tourist (Single Entry) | $50 | Super Rush (5–7 days) | +$99 | $149 |
| Multiple Entry (12 months) | $100 | Normal (10–15 days) | None | $100 |
| Transit Visa | $30 | Normal | None | $30 |
Payment methods: International Visa and Mastercard credit/debit cards accepted on the official portal.[4] Do not pay via third-party agents or unofficial websites.
Processing Times & Visa Validity
Standard Processing
- Timeline: 10–15 working days[4]
- Cost: Included in base fee
- Best for: Travellers with flexible dates or planning 3+ weeks ahead
Rush Processing
- Timeline: 7–10 working days[4]
- Cost: +$50 USD
- Best for: Travellers with 2–3 weeks before departure
Super Rush Processing
- Timeline: 5–7 working days[4]
- Cost: +$99 USD
- Best for: Last-minute bookings (1–2 weeks)
Visa Validity & Stay Duration
- Tourist eVisa: Valid for 90 days from issue. You must enter Tanzania within 90 days or the visa expires unused. Once you enter, you can stay up to 90 consecutive days.[3]
- Multiple Entry eVisa: Valid for 12 months from issue. You can make multiple trips; each stay is limited to 90 days.[3]
Important: The validity period (how long you have to enter) differs from the stay duration (how long you can remain once inside). Plan your trip to enter before the 90-day validity window closes.
What to Expect at Immigration on Arrival
Required Documents at Border
Have these ready when you land:
- Printed copy of your eVisa approval (PDF from email)
- Passport (original)
- Return or onward ticket (proof of departure from Tanzania)
- Proof of accommodation (hotel booking, hostel confirmation, or letter from host)
Immigration Procedures
At the port of entry (airport, land border, port), you will:
- Present your documents to the immigration officer at the visa/entry control desk.
- Undergo screening: Due to Ebola virus disease concerns, all travellers undergo health screening and body temperature checks on arrival.[7] If you are arriving from the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) or Uganda, you must also complete a Traveller's Surveillance Form before departure or upon arrival.
- Receive an entry stamp: The officer will stamp your passport and may ask about your accommodation, purpose of visit, and return date.
- Proceed to baggage claim and customs.
Common Questions at Immigration
- "What is the purpose of your visit?" (Answer: Tourism, visiting family, etc.)
- "Where will you be staying?" (Provide hotel name and address)
- "When do you leave Tanzania?" (Refer to your return ticket)
- "Do you have sufficient funds?" (Not always asked, but be prepared)
Transit Visas & Airport Layovers
If you are transiting through Tanzania to another country and not leaving the airport, you may not need a transit visa if your layover is under 24 hours. However, if you leave the airport or stay longer, a Transit Visa is required.[6]
- Cost: $30 USD[2]
- Purpose: Strictly for passing through Tanzania to another destination; not for tourism
- Requirements: Passport, onward/return ticket to intended destination, entry visa for destination country[6]
Extending Your Stay in Tanzania
The standard tourist eVisa allows a single 90-day stay. If you wish to remain longer, you must apply for an extension before your visa expires. Contact the Tanzania Immigration Department or visit an immigration office in Tanzania (e.g., Dar es Salaam, Arusha). Extensions are not guaranteed and typically require proof of funds, a letter of sponsorship, and a valid reason (work, study, family). Plan ahead if you anticipate needing more time.
Overstaying Your Visa: Penalties & Consequences
Do not overstay your visa. Tanzania enforces strict penalties:
- Fines: Substantial daily fines for each day over your allowed stay[8]
- Detention: Immigration authorities can detain you for questioning
- Deportation: You may be deported at your own expense and banned from re-entry
- Future visa denials: Overstaying can result in visa rejections for future applications
If you are unsure about your departure date, apply for an extension well before your visa expires.
Common Mistakes & Application Rejections
Why Applications Are Rejected
- Poor-quality passport photo: Blurry, wrong dimensions, wrong background colour, or not meeting specifications. This is the #1 rejection reason.[6]
- Passport scan too dark or unclear: Ensure the biographical page is well-lit and fully legible in colour.
- Passport validity under 6 months: Your passport must be valid for 6 months beyond your departure date from Tanzania.[5]
- Typos in application form: Name, passport number, or dates that don't match your documents exactly.
- Missing or incomplete documents: Return ticket not provided, or accommodation details missing.
- Applying through unauthorised agents: Third-party websites may submit incorrect information or use outdated forms.
- Suspicious travel patterns: Frequent visa applications in short timeframes can trigger review.
If Your Application Is Rejected
You will receive a rejection email explaining the reason. You can reapply immediately at no additional cost (excluding the base $50 fee). Correct the issue, resubmit, and allow 10–15 working days for processing. If you have urgent travel plans, use super rush processing (+$99).
Visa-Free Entry & Exemptions
Norwegian citizens do not qualify for visa-free entry to Tanzania. You must obtain a visa. However, some East African Community (EAC) nationals (citizens of Kenya, Uganda, Rwanda, Burundi, South Sudan, and Democratic Republic of Congo) may enter visa-free for up to 90 days; this does not apply to Norwegian travellers.[9]
Practical Tips for Norwegian Travellers
- Apply early: Submit your eVisa at least 3–4 weeks before your trip to avoid last-minute stress. Processing can take 10–15 working days, and delays happen.
- Use the official portal: Apply directly at eservices.immigration.go.tz. Third-party agents charge 2–4 times the official fee ($100–200) and offer no added value.
- Print your visa approval: Carry a printed copy of your eVisa PDF to immigration. Digital-only copies on your phone may not be accepted.
- Bring proof of accommodation: Hotel confirmations or a letter from your host strengthens your application and helps at immigration.
- Check your passport expiry: Ensure your passport is valid for 6 months beyond your planned departure date before applying.
- Plan your safari timing: If you're visiting for the Serengeti migration or wildlife viewing, plan your visa application accordingly. Research safari operators in advance and confirm your travel dates.
- Keep digital backups: Email scans of your passport, visa approval, travel insurance, and accommodation to yourself as backup.
Comparison: eVisa vs. Visa on Arrival
| Factor | eVisa (Online) | Visa on Arrival |
|---|---|---|
| Cost | $50 USD (tourist) | $50 USD (tourist) |
| Processing Time | 10–15 working days | 30 min – 2+ hours at border |
| Convenience | Apply from home, get PDF approval | Queue at immigration on arrival |
| Approval Rate | ~95% (if documents correct) | ~99% (if requirements met) |
| Multiple Entry | Available ($100) | Not available |
| Risk | Low; approved before travel | Possible denial at border |
Contact Information for Support
For visa inquiries, contact the Tanzania Immigration Department:
- Email: info@immigration.go.tz or visatanzania@immigration.go.tz[2]
- Official website: immigration.go.tz
- eVisa portal: eservices.immigration.go.tz
Response times are typically 5–7 working days. For urgent issues, use the rush processing option instead of email.
Health & Insurance Requirements
While not visa-related, ensure you have:
- Travel insurance: Highly recommended for all Tanzania trips. If visiting Zanzibar, you must purchase inbound travel insurance from the Zanzibar Insurance Corporation (ZIC) for up to 92 days.
- Yellow fever vaccination: Recommended for most regions; required if arriving from endemic countries. Consult your doctor 4–6 weeks before travel.
- Malaria prophylaxis: Recommended in low-altitude areas; consult a travel clinic.
Summary Checklist for Norwegian Citizens
- ☐ Check passport validity (6+ months beyond travel)
- ☐ Prepare colour photo (45×35 mm, white background, JPG/JPEG, max 500 KB)
- ☐ Scan passport biographical page (colour, max 500 KB)
- ☐ Book accommodation and get confirmation
- ☐ Book return/onward flight
- ☐ Visit eservices.immigration.go.tz
- ☐ Complete application form (double-check all details)
- ☐ Upload documents
- ☐ Pay $50 USD (or more for rush processing)
- ☐ Receive approval email in 10–15 working days
- ☐ Print eVisa PDF
- ☐ Carry printed visa, passport, return ticket, and accommodation proof to immigration
Last checked July 2026 — always confirm with official sources before travelling.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do Norwegian citizens need a visa for Tanzania?
Yes. Norwegian citizens require a visa to enter Tanzania and cannot enter without one, even for tourism.[1] The most common option is the eVisa (electronic visa), which costs $50 USD for a single-entry tourist visa valid for 90 days. You can also obtain a visa on arrival at major ports of entry, though this involves longer wait times (30 minutes to 2+ hours).
How much does a Tanzania eVisa cost for Norwegian travellers?
The base cost is $50 USD for a single-entry tourist eVisa (valid for 90 days).[2] A multiple-entry eVisa (valid for 12 months) costs $100 USD. Rush processing (+$50) shortens the timeline to 7–10 working days, and super rush processing (+$99) takes 5–7 working days. These are the official government fees; avoid third-party agents who charge significantly more.
How long does it take to get a Tanzania eVisa?
Standard processing takes 10–15 working days.[4] Rush processing takes 7–10 working days (additional $50), and super rush takes 5–7 working days (additional $99). Most applications are approved within the standard timeframe if documents are correct. Apply at least 3–4 weeks before your trip to avoid delays.
What documents do I need to apply for a Tanzania eVisa?
You need: (1) a valid passport with 6+ months validity and 2 blank pages, (2) a colour scan of your passport's biographical page (JPG/JPEG, max 500 KB), (3) a colour passport photo meeting strict specifications (45×35 mm, white background, max 500 KB), (4) proof of return or onward travel, and (5) accommodation details.[5][6] All documents must be clear and legible. Poor-quality photos are the leading cause of rejections.
What are the passport photo requirements for Tanzania?
The photo must be: colour only, 45 mm (length) × 35 mm (width), JPG/JPEG format, maximum 500 KB, plain white or light background, full face from top of hair to bottom of chin, eyes open, natural expression, no shadows or distracting elements.[6] Glasses are permitted if worn regularly. Head coverings are not allowed except for religious reasons, and facial features must be fully visible. This is the most common rejection reason—follow specifications exactly.
Can I get a Tanzania visa on arrival as a Norwegian citizen?
Yes. You can obtain a single-entry tourist visa on arrival at Tanzania's main ports of entry (airports, land borders, ports) if you meet all requirements.[3] However, wait times typically range from 30 minutes to over 2 hours, and you must queue for document verification, payment, and immigration clearance. The eVisa is faster and more convenient; it's recommended for most travellers.
How long can I stay in Tanzania with an eVisa?
A single-entry tourist eVisa allows a continuous stay of up to 90 days from the date you enter Tanzania.[3] A multiple-entry eVisa (valid for 12 months) allows multiple visits, with each stay limited to 90 days. Note that the visa validity (how long you have to enter) and stay duration (how long you can remain) are different; you must enter within 90 days of the visa issue date.
What happens if I overstay my Tanzania visa?
Overstaying is taken seriously. You face substantial daily fines, possible detention by immigration authorities, deportation at your own expense, and potential future visa denials.[8] If you think you might need to stay longer, apply for an extension before your visa expires. Extensions are handled at immigration offices in Tanzania and are not guaranteed.
Can I apply for a multiple-entry Tanzania eVisa?
Yes. A multiple-entry eVisa costs $100 USD and is valid for 12 months.[2] It allows you to enter and exit Tanzania multiple times within that year, with each stay limited to 90 days. This is useful if you plan to visit other countries in the region and return to Tanzania.
What should I do if my Tanzania eVisa application is rejected?
You will receive a rejection email explaining the reason (usually poor photo quality, missing documents, or passport validity issues). You can reapply immediately by correcting the issue and resubmitting at the official portal. The base $50 fee applies again. If your travel date is urgent, use super rush processing (+$99) for a 5–7 working day timeline.
Where do I apply for a Tanzania eVisa?
Apply directly at the official Tanzania Immigration Department eVisa portal: eservices.immigration.go.tz.[5] Avoid third-party websites; they charge 2–4 times the official fee ($100–200+) and offer no added value. The official portal is secure, straightforward, and the only authorised government channel.
Do I need travel insurance for Tanzania?
Travel insurance is not required by immigration law but is highly recommended for all Tanzania trips. If you visit Zanzibar, you must purchase inbound travel insurance from the Zanzibar Insurance Corporation (ZIC) for up to 92 days. Comprehensive travel insurance protects against medical emergencies, trip cancellations, and lost baggage.
