Zanzibar, a beautiful island off the coast of Tanzania, has become a popular destination for travelers seeking pristine beaches, rich culture, and historical attractions. If you’re planning a trip to Zanzibar from the UK, one important factor you need to consider is the visa requirement. In this article, we’ll guide you through everything you need to know about getting a visa for Zanzibar, including the types of visas, how to apply for them, and any additional entry requirements.
Visa Requirements for UK Citizens
Before you pack your bags for Zanzibar, it’s essential to know that UK citizens do need a visa to enter both Zanzibar and mainland Tanzania. This is a standard requirement for most international travelers, and there are a few options available for securing your visa.
e-Visa for Tanzania
One of the most convenient ways to obtain a visa for Zanzibar is through the Tanzania e-Visa. The e-Visa allows you to apply for your visa online before you travel, which saves you time and hassle once you arrive at the port of entry. This option is available for tourists, business visitors, and other types of travelers.
To apply for the Tanzania e-Visa, you will need to visit the official Tanzania Immigration website, where you can fill out an online application form. The process is relatively simple, and you will need to provide some basic information, such as your passport details, travel dates, and a passport-sized photograph.
Visa on Arrival
Alternatively, UK citizens can also obtain a visa upon arrival at Zanzibar’s main entry points, such as Abeid Amani Karume International Airport. While applying for a visa on arrival can be convenient, it’s recommended to apply for the e-Visa in advance to avoid any potential delays at the airport. If you do choose to get your visa upon arrival, ensure that you have the required documents with you, including your passport and proof of return or onward travel.
Types of Visas
When applying for a visa to Zanzibar, there are different types to consider, depending on the purpose of your visit. The most common types of visas are the tourist visa and the business visa.
Tourist Visa
The tourist visa is the most common visa for UK citizens traveling to Zanzibar. It is suitable for travelers visiting the island for leisure or tourism purposes, such as exploring the beaches, visiting historical sites, or experiencing the local culture.
Typically, a tourist visa allows a stay of up to 90 days, though the exact duration can vary. If you plan to stay longer than the permitted time, you may be able to extend your visa once you’re in Zanzibar, but it’s essential to confirm the specific regulations before traveling.
Business Visa
A business visa is intended for UK citizens who are visiting Zanzibar for work or business-related activities. Whether you’re attending meetings, conferences, or engaging in professional ventures, this visa is suitable for all business purposes.
Business visas can also be issued for short-term stays, and they generally allow the holder to stay in Tanzania (and Zanzibar) for up to 90 days. As with tourist visas, it’s important to apply for this visa in advance to avoid delays.
Single-Entry Visa
For most tourists, the single-entry visa is the best option. It’s the most common choice for travelers heading to Zanzibar for short trips. The single-entry visa allows you to enter Tanzania and Zanzibar once, and you will need to apply for a new visa if you leave the country and plan to return.
How to Apply for a Visa
Whether you’re applying for an e-Visa or obtaining a visa on arrival, there are several steps you’ll need to follow to ensure a smooth application process. Below is a step-by-step guide for applying for a Tanzania e-Visa:
Step 1: Prepare the Required Documents
Before you begin your e-Visa application, make sure you have the following documents ready:
Valid Passport: Your passport must be valid for at least six months from your intended arrival date in Zanzibar. Ensure that your passport has at least two blank pages for visa stamps.
Passport-Sized Photograph: You’ll need a recent passport-sized photo to upload as part of your application. This photo should meet the standard size and clarity requirements.
Proof of Return or Onward Travel: You must provide evidence of your return or onward journey, such as a flight ticket back to the UK or to another destination.
Additional Documents (if required): Depending on the nature of your visit, you may need to provide additional documentation, such as an invitation letter for business travelers or proof of accommodation in Zanzibar.
Step 2: Complete the e-Visa Application Form
Once you have all the required documents, visit the official Tanzania Immigration website to complete the online e-Visa application form. The form will ask for personal information, passport details, travel dates, and the purpose of your visit. Make sure all the information is accurate and matches the documents you’ve provided.
Step 3: Pay the Visa Fee
After filling out the application form, you’ll need to pay the visa fee. The fee varies depending on the type of visa you’re applying for, but generally, a tourist visa will cost around USD 50 for a single entry. The fee can be paid securely through the online platform using a credit or debit card.
Step 4: Submit the Application and Wait for Approval
Once you’ve completed the application and payment, submit the form and wait for the approval. In most cases, the e-Visa will be processed within a few business days, and you’ll receive an email notification with your approved visa attached as a PDF document.
Step 5: Print Your e-Visa
Once your e-Visa has been approved, print a copy of the visa and keep it with your travel documents. You’ll need to present this printed visa when you arrive in Zanzibar.
Visa on Arrival
If you prefer to get your visa on arrival at Zanzibar’s main entry points, the process is straightforward, though it’s important to be prepared.
Required Documents
When you arrive in Zanzibar, you’ll need to present the following documents to obtain your visa on arrival:
Valid Passport: Your passport must be valid for at least six months from your arrival date.
Proof of Return or Onward Travel: You’ll need to show proof of your return flight or onward journey.
Visa Fee: You’ll need to pay the visa fee in cash, typically in US dollars. Make sure to have the correct amount available as the visa fee may not be available for payment via card.
Process
Once you reach the immigration counter, you’ll be asked to fill out a visa application form. After submitting the required documents and paying the visa fee, you will receive your visa and can proceed through immigration.
While the visa on arrival process is relatively simple, there may be long lines or delays, especially during peak travel times. For this reason, it is generally recommended to apply for an e-Visa in advance if you want to avoid any potential waiting times at the airport.
Entry Requirements
In addition to obtaining a visa, there are a few additional entry requirements that UK citizens should be aware of before traveling to Zanzibar.
Inbound Travel Insurance
All visitors to Zanzibar must have valid inbound travel insurance, which must be purchased from the Zanzibar Insurance Corporation. This insurance is required to cover any medical expenses or emergency situations that may arise during your stay.
Health Requirements
One important health requirement for travelers to Zanzibar is the yellow fever vaccination certificate. This is mandatory for travelers arriving from countries with a risk of yellow fever transmission. If you’re coming from the UK, where yellow fever is not a risk, this certificate is not required. However, it’s always a good idea to check the latest health guidelines before your trip.
Conclusion
Traveling to Zanzibar from the UK requires a visa, but the process is simple and can be handled in a few different ways. You can apply for a Tanzania e-Visa online before your trip, or you can obtain a visa on arrival at Zanzibar’s main entry points. The e-Visa is the most convenient option, as it allows you to complete your application in advance and avoid potential delays at the airport.
Make sure to have all the necessary documents prepared, including your passport, travel insurance, and proof of return or onward travel. Additionally, be mindful of health requirements, such as the yellow fever vaccination certificate, if applicable.
By following these guidelines, you’ll be able to enjoy your time in Zanzibar with ease, whether you’re there for a relaxing vacation, business, or exploration of the island’s unique culture and landscapes.
