The Tanzanian government has announced the removal of Nigerian nationals from the Referred Visa category, effective immediately. According to an official public notice Number 246 of 2026, issued by the Tanzania Ministry of Home Affairs, Nigerian citizens are now exempt from the special clearance requirements. This change allows Nigerians to apply for Tanzanian visas through standard procedures, either online or at designated entry points.
The Chief Spokesperson of Tanzania Immigration Services Department, ACI Paul J. Mselle, confirmed that Nigerian citizens will no longer require special clearance from the Commissioner General of Immigration before entering Tanzania. This development is a result of recent amendments to the immigration regulations, published in the official Government Gazette. The changes aim to simplify visa application procedures for Nigerian nationals traveling to Tanzania.
The Referred Visa category is a special clearance requirement for nationals of certain countries. Prior to this change, Nigerian citizens were subject to these restrictions, which often caused delays and inconvenience for travelers. With Nigeria now removed from the list, citizens can plan their trips to Tanzania with greater ease. The Tanzanian government has taken steps to streamline visa application procedures, making it more convenient for visitors.
Despite the removal of Nigeria from the Referred Visa category, several countries remain subject to these restrictions. These include Afghanistan, Azerbaijan, Bangladesh, Chad, and Djibouti, among others. Nationals of these countries are still required to obtain special clearance before entering Tanzania. The Tanzanian government has advised citizens of these countries to apply for visas well in advance of their planned travel dates.
The Immigration Services Department has provided guidance for nationals of countries still subject to Referred Visa restrictions. Applicants are advised to submit their requests at least two months before their planned travel dates. An official invitation letter from a local host or sponsor in Tanzania may also support applications. This guidance aims to facilitate smooth travel arrangements for visitors.
The removal of Nigeria from the Referred Visa category is expected to boost travel and tourism between Tanzania and Nigeria. Tanzanian authorities have expressed their commitment to enhancing bilateral relations and promoting people-to-people exchanges. This change is seen as a positive step towards strengthening ties between the two nations.
The Tanzanian government has reiterated its commitment to implementing efficient and streamlined visa application procedures. The Immigration Services Department continues to review and update its regulations to ensure a smooth and secure travel experience for visitors. The removal of Nigeria from the Referred Visa category is a testament to the government's efforts to promote tourism and facilitate travel.
Key points
- Nigerian nationals are no longer subject to Referred Visa restrictions when traveling to Tanzania.
- The Referred Visa category applies to nationals of 28 countries, including Afghanistan, Azerbaijan, and Somalia.
- Tanzanian authorities have advised applicants to submit visa requests at least two months before their planned travel dates.
