The government of Tanzania has announced the removal of Nigerian nationals from its Referral Visa Category, effectively ending additional visa restrictions for travellers from Nigeria. According to a public notice issued by the Tanzania Immigration Services Department on September 25, 2026, Nigerian nationals will now follow standard visa application procedures when travelling to Tanzania. This change was published in Government Gazette No. 246 of 2026 and takes effect immediately.
The Referral Visa Category required nationals from certain countries to obtain additional approval before travelling to Tanzania. Under this category, applicants had to submit their applications online and wait for approval before beginning their journey or obtain approval from the Commissioner General of Immigration. They were also advised to apply at least two months before their intended travel date. With Nigeria's removal from this category, its nationals will no longer face these additional requirements.
The Tanzania Immigration Services Department has assured that its referral visa list can be reviewed from time to time, allowing for changes to the applicable regulations. This means countries can be added to or removed from the category as needed. The latest notice was issued by Assistant Commissioner of Immigration Paul J. M selle, Chief Spokesperson of Tanzania's Immigration Services Department.
Nigerian travellers to Tanzania will now use the country's ordinary visa application channels and comply with standard requirements applicable to their travel category. Tanzania operates an electronic visa system, allowing foreign travellers to submit applications, make payments, and receive notifications on the progress of their applications. The Immigration Department advises applicants to obtain their visa approval before travelling where a visa is required.
The change marks a notable adjustment in Tanzania-Nigeria travel arrangements and could make travel between the two countries more straightforward for Nigerian nationals visiting Tanzania for purposes such as tourism, business, meetings, or family visits. The move is expected to enhance travel relations between the two nations.
The Immigration Department's notice did not state the specific reasons behind Nigeria's removal from the Referral Visa Category. However, the change follows amendments published in Government Gazette No. 246 of 2026 and takes effect immediately. This development is likely to be welcomed by Nigerian travellers and businesses.
The removal of Nigerian nationals from the Referral Visa Category is a positive development in Tanzania's immigration policy. It demonstrates the country's willingness to review and adjust its visa regulations to facilitate easier travel and promote relations with other nations.
Key points
- Tanzania removes Nigerians from Referral Visa Category
- Nigerian nationals will follow standard visa application procedures
- The change takes effect immediately, following amendments published in Government Gazette No. 246 of 2026
