The Tanzania Immigration Services Department has announced that Nigerian travellers will no longer require special immigration clearance before applying for visas. This change, effective immediately, follows the removal of Nigeria from Tanzania's Referred Visa Category, as stated in a notice dated September 25, 2026. The notice, signed by Chief Spokesperson ACI Paul Mselle, was published on the department's official X handle.
Under the previous arrangement, Nigerian nationals were required to obtain approval from the Office of the Commissioner General of Immigration before travelling to Tanzania. They were also advised to submit their applications at least two months before their intended travel dates. However, with the updated arrangement, Nigerian nationals can now follow Tanzania's standard visa procedures through the official online portal or designated entry points.
The Tanzania Immigration Services Department recommends the online application route for obtaining a visa. According to the department's visa guidelines, applicants can apply online through the official immigration website or obtain a visa on arrival at an official entry point. The standard online visa application is generally processed within 10 days, except for applications under the referral category.
It is essential to note that the removal of Nigeria from the Referred Visa Category does not make Nigerian travellers visa-free. Tanzania's official visa information lists Nigeria among Commonwealth countries whose nationals are required to obtain visas. The country's current visa-free list does not include Nigeria. Nigerian nationals are required to apply for an Ordinary Visa for tourism, which has a stated fee of $50 and is valid for up to 90 days.
To apply for a visa, applicants must have passports valid for at least six months with at least one unused visa page. Visitors must also present a return ticket upon arrival in Tanzania. The Tanzania Immigration Services Department advises visa applicants to use only its official online platform and warns that visa regulations and conditions may change.
The change in visa rules is expected to ease travel restrictions for Nigerian nationals visiting Tanzania. The department's decision to remove Nigeria from the Referred Visa Category is a significant development in the relations between the two countries. This move is likely to boost tourism and business travel between Nigeria and Tanzania.
The Tanzania Immigration Services Department's notice has been well-received by travellers and travel agencies. The department's efforts to streamline the visa application process and reduce bureaucratic hurdles have been commended. As the new rules take effect, Nigerian travellers can now look forward to a more straightforward and efficient visa application process when visiting Tanzania.
Key points
- Tanzania removes Nigeria from Referred Visa Category, easing entry for Nigerian travellers.
