Tanzania visa for French citizens - Requirements and fees

Tanzania is a renowned tourist destination and one of the most spectacular countries in Africa, with a diverse landscape that includes highlands, plains, and coastal areas. Most visitors to Tanzania include the Serengeti National Park and Mount Kilimanjaro on their itinerary, but there is more to the country than these two renowned sites. 

To enter Tanzania for tourism, business, volunteering, or study, French citizens or those traveling on a French passport require a visa. This article will explain how to apply for a Tanzania visa for French citizens, as well as the requirements and costs.

1. What is a Tanzania eVisa for French Citizens

The Tanzania eVisa system, introduced in 2018, allows French citizens to apply online for different types of visas (tourist, business, medical, conference, or transit) before traveling. This system helps travelers avoid long queues for visa on arrival at the airport by obtaining prior approval online.

French passport holders require a visa to enter both Tanzania and Zanzibar. By applying for an eVisa in advance, they can present the approval notice together with their passport at immigration checkpoints such as Julius Nyerere International Airport (DAR) in Dar es Salaam, Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO), or Abeid Amani Karume International Airport (ZNZ) in Zanzibar.

Validity and Duration

• The eVisa is generally valid for 30 days from the date of issuance to enter Tanzania.
• Once admitted, travelers are usually allowed to stay up to 90 days per visit (for tourism or leisure), provided their passport is valid for at least six months with two blank pages.

Do EU citizens need visas for Tanzania?

Most EU citizens, including French nationals, must obtain a visa. Tanzania does not exempt France, Malta, or Romania from visa requirements.

Is it mandatory to get a visa for Tanzania for French citizens

Yes, a visa is required to enter Tanzania from France

Because they are eligible to apply online, French citizens may obtain their Tanzania eVisa from anywhere as long as they have a reliable internet connection.

There are two types of visas for Tanzania , they are:

• The ordinary visa. Its validity is 90 days and it only allows you to enter and leave Tanzania once. 
• The multiple entry visa. It has a validity of one year and it lets you enter and exit the country more than once.

French citizens who wish to apply for a Tanzania visa from France online prior to travel must submit the following documents with their application Tanzania visa for French citizens:

• Upon arrival in Tanzania, a French passport valid for at least 6 months is required.
• A scanned copy of the passport data page.
• A passport-style digital photograph.

When entering Tanzania, immigration officials will frequently request proof of return flights to France or onward travel, as officials must ensure that the applicant's travel plans correspond to the time limit imposed by the Tanzania tourist visa.

Applicants for a visa to Tanzania from France will be required to provide personal information such as the following:

• Full name.
• Date of birth.
• Country of residence.
• Citizenship.
• Email address.
• Passport number.
• Invitation letter (if Tanzania business e-visa).

Check that all information entered is correct, as Tanzanian immigration cannot be held liable for errors that may occur during the visa processing if the information is incorrect.

Applicants are also asked to provide a current email address, as details about the ongoing application process and confirmation of final visa approval will be sent to that address. It is not recommended that applicants book flights or accommodations until they have received confirmation of a Tanzania visa for French citizens. 

How to apply Tanzania online visa for French citizens

How long does it take to get a Tanzania visa for French citizens?

An approved Tanzania eVisa for French citizens will be sent to the current email address provided by the traveler when filling out the online form.

Tanzania eVisa is typically accepted within 3 business days. Passengers are advised to apply at least one week before their trip to Tanzania.

Travelers will receive two documents, an application notice and a visa approval notice via email.

Upon arrival in Tanzania or Zanzibar, these two documents must be printed and submitted to the immigration authorities along with the traveler's Canadian passport for rapid entry.

Tanzania e-visa approved in France can be used to enter the country at the following border checkpoints:

• Abaid Amani Karume International Airport
• Julius Nierere International Airport
• Kilimanjaro International Airport
• Namanga border checkpoint
• Tunduma border checkpoint

It is also possible to enter all ports in Tanzania and Zanzibar using an approved online visa for French citizens

French visitors to Tanzania may require different types of visas depending on their reason for visiting and the length of their stay. Types of Tanzania visas for French citizens:

• Tanzania tourist e-visa: Which allows the traveler a single stay of up to 3 months in the country for the purpose of tourism and leisure, short-term health treatment, or any other activity legal under Tanzanian law. This visa allows people to enter Tanzania for touristic purposes. It is further divided into two categories.
  • Tanzania Tourist e-Visa (Single Entry): French tourists who apply for this type of visa can stay in Tanzania for up to 90 days in a single entry.
  • Tanzania Tourist e-Visa (Multiple Entries): This visa allows French travelers to visit no-limited Tanzania for up to a year and have a period of every 90 days.
• Tanzania Transit visa: Available for travelers who want to stop in Tanzania on their way to another country and will stay no longer than 7 days
• Tanzania business visa: Which is issued to French citizens visiting the country to fulfill professional obligations, conduct research, or hold business meetings, and allows a stay of not exceeding 90 days for a single entry, depending on the needs of the traveler

To apply for a Tanzania visa for French citizens online, you must pay two (2) types of Tanzania Visa Fees: Service Fee and Government Fee.

The service charge is customizable depending on which of the three service categories you select from the following list:

• Normal: This service will obtain a Tanzania visa for French people within three business days if your needs are non-urgent and you have a limited budget.
• Urgent: In just 48 hours, a French citizen will receive a Tanzania e-Visa for something urgent that you need to get used to.
• Super urgent: Which organization can help a French citizen obtain a Tanzania e-Visa in just one working day? To be sure. you should have Tanzania Travel Insurance for your trip.

The total price will depend on the type of e-Visa and also how soon you want it. Keep in mind that both those factors influence your bill.

As you can see, obtaining a Tanzania visa from France has never been simpler. You do not need to go to an embassy; you can apply from the comfort of your own home at any time of day or night. It doesn't get much more perfect than that. What are you waiting for? Apply for a Tanzania visa for French citizens right away.

Tanzania visa fee for French citizens

6 What are the vaccine requirements for French citizens in Tanzania?

There is no compulsory vaccination for Tanzania. However, the CDC recommends that all travelers receive the following vaccines:

• Chick (Large)
• Diphtheria-Tetanus-Measles
• Influenza (flu)
• Measles-Rubovirus (MMR)
• Polio
• Schindel
• Hepatitis A and B
• Cholera

If you are traveling from a country where the disease is endemic, you will also be vaccinated against smallpox. Since the UK doesn’t have it, they don’t require it.

7. FAQS about Tanzania e visa for French citizens:

How to get to Tanzania from France

Traveling from France to Tanzania is not terribly difficult because both nations are connected through the international flights. Tanzania is the destination of safari enthusiasts, climbers intending to climb Mount Kilimanjaro, and tourists who want to relax in beaches of Zanzibar. Below is a step-by-step procedure of how to travel between France and Tanzania.

Main Airports in Tanzania

France-based travelers can choose among three major airports in Tanzania, depending on their purpose of visit:

• Julius Nyerere International Airport (DAR) in Dar es Salaam: This is the best option when one is travelling to the business capital or visiting the southern part of Tanzania including Selous and Ruaha National Parks.
• Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO): IDEAL location to take the safari in the North like in Serengeti, Ngorongoro Crater and climbing Mount kilimanjaro.
• Abeid Amani Karume International Airport (ZNZ) in Zanzibar: This place is suitable to people whose primary purpose is a beach holiday.

Flights from France to Tanzania

There are no regular direct flights from France to Tanzania. Instead, travelers usually connect via major European, Middle Eastern, or African hubs. Common routes include:

• Air France/KLM: From Paris (CDG) to Dar es Salaam or Kilimanjaro with a stop in Amsterdam.
• Qatar Airways: Paris (CDG) to Dar es Salaam, Kilimanjaro, or Zanzibar via Doha.
• Emirates: Paris (CDG) to Dar es Salaam or Zanzibar via Dubai.
• Turkish Airlines: Paris (CDG) to Dar es Salaam or Kilimanjaro via Istanbul.
• Ethiopian Airlines: Paris (CDG) to Dar es Salaam, Zanzibar, or Kilimanjaro via Addis Ababa.

The total travel time generally ranges from 11 to 15 hours, depending on the route and layover duration.

Do French citizens need a visa to visit Zanzibar?

Yes, French citizens need a visa to visit Zanzibar, as it is part of Tanzania.  Immigration is not a distinct system in Zanzibar and thus the visa regulations are the same as those applied to mainland Tanzania are applicable. The most convenient way, which can be applied by French travelers, is to receive a Tanzania e-Visa online. The e-Visa can be used to enter Zanzibar via the Abeid Amani Karume International Airport (ZNZ) into the country or any other major points of entry in Tanzania.

Alternatively, the French nationals can acquire a visa on arrival at the airport, which often involves long queues and delays. The e-Visa is highly advisable in order to have a quicker entry. Irrespective of the type of visa, a traveler should be in possession of a passport that has a six-month validity in addition to the passport having at least two blank pages

Can you fly direct from Paris to Zanzibar?

Yes, it is possible to fly directly to Zanzibar to Paris, but the possibilities are few and are seasonal. French charter/leisure carrier Corsair, or in some cases charter airlines, do non-stop flights between Paris Orly (ORY) or Paris Charles de Gaulle (CDG) and the Zanzibar Abeid Amani Karume International Airport (ZNZ). Flight time is about 9–10 hours.

For most of the year, travelers fly with one-stop connections. Popular routes include:

• Qatar Airways via Doha
• Emirates via Dubai
• Turkish Airlines via Istanbul
• Ethiopian Airlines via Addis Ababa

These connecting flights are available year-round and usually take 12–15 hours, depending on layover times.

For comparison, flights from Paris to Zanzibar (operated seasonally by airlines such as Corsair) also take around 9–10 hours non-stop.

Do I need to print a Tanzania e-visa for French citizens?

Yes, French citizens are supposed to print the approved Tanzania e-Visa prior to travel. Your online application will be processed and after successful approval you will get the official e- Visa grant notice on your email. When entering Tanzania it is highly advisable to always be in possession of a printed copy of this document together with your authentic passport.

Immigration officers at entry points such as Dar es Salaam (DAR), Kilimanjaro (JRO), or Zanzibar (ZNZ) may request to see the printed e-Visa for verification.  Although the electronic version in a phone or gadget can play a helpful role as a backup, the hard copy is a sure way of a seamless entry devoid of delays.

Tanzania Visa Requirements for France Citizens FAQs

What is the cheapest way to get to Zanzibar?

The cheapest way to get to Zanzibar depends on your starting point, but here are some general tips:

• Begin by looking for flights to Dar es Salaam. This is Tanzania's capital and the nearest major airport to Zanzibar. Flights to Dar es Salaam are frequently less expensive than flights to Zanzibar.
• You may take a ship or an aircraft to Zanzibar from Dar es Salaam. The boat is the least expensive alternative, although it may be sluggish and congested. The flight is more convenient and speedier, but it is also more expensive.
• If money is an issue, you might attempt to hitch or catch a bus to Zanzibar. This is the least expensive choice, but it is also the least dependable.

Here are some specific examples of how to get to Zanzibar on a budget:

• From Europe: Flights to Dar es Salaam are available from numerous European locations for roughly $500-600 round-trip. You may take a boat from Dar es Salaam to Zanzibar for roughly $35 one-way.
• From the United States: Flights to Dar es Salaam from major US cities cost about $700-800 round-trip. You may take a boat from Dar es Salaam to Zanzibar for roughly $50 one-way.
• From East Africa: If you're already in East Africa, you can often find cheaper flights to Zanzibar. For example, you can find flights from Nairobi to Zanzibar for around $200 round-trip.

Here are some additional tips for getting to Zanzibar on a budget:

• Book your flights and ferry tickets in advance. This will give you the best chance of finding a good deal.
• Travel dates should be flexible. If you're willing to go during the off-season, you'll have a better chance of finding cheaper flights and lodging.
• Think about staying in a hostel or guesthouse. This is an excellent strategy to save money on lodging.
• Make the most of free activities. Exploring Stone Town, swimming in the water, and climbing in the Jozani Forest are all free activities in Zanzibar.

Do French citizens need visas for Tanzania?

Yes, regardless of the expected length of stay or the purpose of the visit, all French nationals coming to Tanzania require a visa to enter the country.

Only a few nationalities are exempt from visa requirements in Tanzania, with the majority of them belonging to African and Southeast Asian nations.

Citizens of France planning a short trip to Tanzania can now apply for a Tanzania eVisa entirely online, removing the need to apply in person at a Tanzanian embassy or consulate.

Do French children need an eVisa for travel to Tanzania?

To travel to Tanzania from France, all minors under the age of 18, regardless of whether they are included on their parent's passport or not, must obtain an individually authorized eVisa.

However, applications on behalf of children may be made by a parent or guardian if they declare that they are applying on behalf of the minor when completing the Tanzania eVisa form.

Is a visa for Tanzania valid for multiple entries?

Yes, a visa for Tanzania can be valid for multiple entries. Tanzania has two categories of multiple entry visas:

• Ordinary Multiple Entry Visa: This visa is only valid for 12 months and permits you to visit Tanzania an unlimited number of times during that time. You cannot, however, stay in Tanzania for more than 90 days in any 180-day period.

To apply for a multiple entry visa for Tanzania, you will need to provide the same documentation as you would for a single entry visa, plus a letter from your employer or business sponsor if you go for a business stating the purpose of your visit to Tanzania.

Can I re-enter Tanzania from France with a single entry visa?

No, you cannot re-enter Tanzania from France with a single entry visa. A single-entry visa permits you to visit Tanzania only once and remain for up to 90 days. If you wish to leave Tanzania and then return, you must obtain a new Tanzania visa. 

If you hold a single-entry visa and want to return to Tanzania, you must apply for a new visa at the Tanzania Immigration Services website before your next trip. A valid visa is required for each entry into Tanzania, and single-entry visas are not valid for subsequent entries.

Before applying for a Tanzania visa, you should check the visa requirements and regulations to make sure you have the right visa for your travel needs.

Do I need a passport to travel to Zanzibar from France?

Yes, a passport is required for travel to Zanzibar from France. Tanzania requires all visitors to have a valid passport, and Zanzibar is a semi-autonomous territory of Tanzania. Your passport must be valid for at least six months after the date of your intended departure from Tanzania.

If you want to stay in Tanzania for more than 90 days, you will need a visa in addition to your passport. Although French residents can receive a visa on arrival in Tanzania, it is best to apply for a visa ahead of time to prevent delays.

Here are some other documents that you may need when traveling to Zanzibar from France:

• A return ticket or other transportation arrangements.
• Proof of Zanzibar accommodation.
• An invitation letter from the company if you come to Tanzania for business purposes.

How to travel to Tanzania from France?

Tanzania, the largest nation in East Africa, includes wide savannah plains, Indian Ocean beaches, the continent's tallest peak, great lakes where flamingos wade, and forests where chimps live. Traveling from France to Tanzania offers an exciting journey through two beautiful destinations. Before traveling to Tanzania, you need to know information about how to travel to Tanzania:

• Applying for a Tanzania visa: Most visitors will require a visa, which may be obtained upon arrival, at an embassy or consulate, or through the e-Visa system. Currently, travelers can choose to apply for a Tanzania visa online for time-saving. Getting a visa online for Tanzania as a French citizen is an easy process thanks to the eVisa system, which allows you to effortlessly acquire this vital entry document online.
• Booking your flight: The best way to get from Tanzania to France is by plane. Air France offers direct flights from Paris to both Dar es Salaam and Zanzibar. The fastest flight from France to Tanzania is from Paris to Zanzibar City, with an average flight time of 8h 45m. If there are no direct flights, you may need to take a connecting trip from another city. Several airlines provide direct or connecting flights between two nations including KLM, Lufthansa, British Airways and Turkish Airlines.
• Currency: Tanzania's national currency is the Tanzanian Shilling (TSH). Tanzania is still predominantly a cash-based country, so be sure you can withdraw cash from ATMs (the cheapest option) or bring a major currency to convert. ATMs are present in bigger communities, although may not always be operational. Credit card facilities are offered at certain hotels, although not usually.
• Booking your accommodation: When it comes to places to stay, there's a variety, from fancy beach resorts to cozy safari lodges in Tanzania. Regardless of where you select, you will have a pleasant stay in Tanzania's gorgeous landscapes and rich cultural surroundings. You can choose to stay in Tanzania including Meliá Serengeti Lodge, Zuri Zanzibar, Boutique Hotel Matlai, Kilindi Zanzibar, Baraza Resort and Spa, Elewana Arusha Coffee Lodge and more.
• Safety: Most visitors in Tanzania go on safaris or tours, and in most cases, you will be escorted by guides or camp guards who will do everything they can to keep you secure in Tanzania. However, small crimes are widespread, so constantly keep a check on your possessions and never stroll alone at night. Caution should always be maintained, especially in major tourist destinations.
• Tanzania travel costs: Tanzania is not a low-cost location, yet it is still feasible to visit economically. If you want to save money on lodging, camping is the cheapest alternative, with the occasional stay in a backpacker hostel. Camping in Tanzania may range from modest open plots in national parks to fancy tented hotels costing more than $100 per night. Similarly, guesthouses and hotels range from low-cost flophouses to high-end resorts, and in general, you get what you pay for. In Tanzania, food may be both ridiculously inexpensive and very costly. If you stick to local food and essentials, you may get by on $1-5 every meal, and fish and fresh fruit are incredibly inexpensive.
• What to eat in Tanzania: Tanzania has a range of dining alternatives, ranging from modest sidewalk shops to contemporary Western restaurants. The seaside environment, availability of unique spices, and flavor combinations will enrich each meal, particularly near the shore. Zanzibari cuisine combines Arabic, Indian, Asian, and African flavors, ranging from fresh-grilled seafood to savory-spiced coconut curries. Nightlife is frequently centered on the pleasures of dining and socializing, and it is seldom far from the sea wind.