Tanzania’s immigration authority has officially barred nationals from 24 specific countries from obtaining a visa on arrival, according to updated 2026 entry guidelines. Travelers from these nations, along with stateless persons and refugees, must now secure authorization from the Commissioner General of Immigration before beginning their journey to avoid being denied entry at the border.
Countries Excluded from Visa-on-Arrival Access
The Tanzania Immigration portal lists 24 countries whose citizens are no longer eligible for the visa-on-arrival scheme. This policy shift requires affected travelers to complete the formal application process well in advance of their departure. The restricted list includes: Afghanistan, Bangladesh, Burkina Faso, Chad, Eritrea, Guinea Conakry, Guinea Bissau, Iran, Iraq, the Kyrgyz Republic, Lebanon, Mali, Mauritania, Niger, Nigeria, Pakistan, Palestine, Somalia, Syria, Sierra Leone, Tajikistan, Turkmenistan, Uzbekistan, and Yemen.
Pro Tip: Do not rely on previous travel experiences. If your country is on this list, you must secure your visa or special permission from the Commissioner General of Immigration before you arrive at a Tanzanian airport or land border.
Entry Requirements for Refugees and Stateless Persons
The 2026 regulations extend beyond national citizenship. According to official immigration guidance, individuals classified as stateless persons or those holding refugee status are also excluded from the visa-on-arrival program. These travelers are subject to the same pre-travel authorization requirements as citizens of the 24 listed nations. Failure to obtain the necessary documentation prior to arrival typically results in denied entry, as immigration officials at border points are enforcing these stricter protocols to manage security and oversight.
Future Trends in Regional Border Security
Did you know? Tanzania’s tourism sector has faced recent challenges, with reports indicating a downturn in visitor numbers following election killings.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I obtain a visa at the airport if I am a citizen of a restricted country?
No. Nationals of the 24 listed countries, including Nigeria, Somalia, and Afghanistan, are ineligible for a visa on arrival and must secure authorization before traveling.
What should I do if I have refugee status?
Refugees and stateless persons are required to complete the visa application process before arriving in Tanzania, as they are excluded from the visa-on-arrival scheme.
Where can I verify if my country is restricted?
The official list is published on the Tanzania Immigration portal. Always check this site close to your departure date, as entry requirements can change based on government policy updates.
What happens if I arrive without a pre-approved visa?
Travelers from restricted nations who arrive without the required documentation or special permission from the Commissioner General of Immigration risk being denied entry at the border.
Are you planning a trip to Tanzania? Check the latest entry requirements on the official immigration website before booking your flights. Have questions about the new process? Share your thoughts in the comments below.
