Home Arrow FAQs Arrow What visa do I need to volunteer in Tanzania?

What visa do I need to volunteer in Tanzania?

Volunteering in Tanzania typically includes either unpaid work with non-profit, charitable, schools, hospitals, conservation, or community development organizations. Although the volunteers are not paid a salary, the volunteering is not classified as tourism under Tanzanian immigration law. This difference is important in the selection of the appropriate visa. Entering Tanzania with a different type of visa may cause fines, deportation, or entry prohibitions in the future.

Is Volunteering Allowed on a Tourist Visa in Tanzania?

In general, a tourist visa does not permit volunteering in Tanzania, particularly where the activities resemble work, even if unpaid or short-term. A tourist visa for Tanzania is strictly intended for tourism purposes, such as visiting friends and family, sightseeing, and holidays. Taking part in volunteer activities on a tourist visa is considered a violation of immigration regulations and may result in fines, deportation, or restrictions on future visits.

The Correct Visa for Volunteering in Tanzania

Foreign nationals intending to volunteer in Tanzania generally require a Class C Residence Permit, which is commonly referred to as a ‘volunteer permit’ rather than an official ‘volunteer visa. This permit applies to individuals engaged in unpaid voluntary, charitable, humanitarian, or community-based activities that do not involve salaried employment in Tanzania. It applies to working on activities like teaching, health care assistance, conservation, and NGO-related projects.

Who Issues the Volunteer Permit (Class C Residence Permit)?

The Volunteer Permit, officially classified as a Class C Residence Permit, is issued by the Tanzania Immigration Services Department.

This permit typically requires sponsorship from a legally registered organization in Tanzania, such as an NGO, charity, school, research institution, or non-profit organization.

Organizational sponsorship is a mandatory part of the application process, and the sponsoring entity must be properly registered and authorized to operate in Tanzania.

Key Requirements for a Tanzania Volunteer Visa

While requirements may vary slightly, most applicants are required to submit the following documents:

  • A passport that is valid for at least 6 months, with a minimum of validity left
  • A letter of sponsorship or invitation from an organization in Tanzania recognized by the government
  • Information about the volunteer project and its duration in detail
  • Immigration applications filled out
  • Photos of passport size
  • Payment of required government charges

Depending on the kind of volunteer work, additional documentation like a police clearance certificate or proof of qualifications may be necessary.

Duration and Validity of the Volunteer Visa

The Class C Residence Permit is normally given for short-term or fixed-term volunteer projects, which usually last from a few months to one year. Extensions might be allowed but must be authorized by immigration officials before the expiration of the permit.

Application Process and Where to Apply

Applications for a Class C Residence Permit must be approved before commencing any volunteer activities and are typically submitted through the Tanzania Immigration Services Department, either prior to travel or after lawful entry, depending on nationality and sponsorship arrangements. Processing time varies case by case, hence it is most prudent to apply well before the actual date you intend to commence your work.

Final Advice for Volunteers

Always remember to verify the visa requirements with the organization that you are sponsored by before traveling. The Tanzanian immigration policies are highly rigid, and the observance of them can be considered a guarantee to both the volunteer and the host organization. The appropriate visa has brought a hassle-free, legal, and significantly a very important volunteering experience in Tanzania.

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