Tanzania, known for its stunning safaris, Mount Kilimanjaro, and vibrant culture, offers fantastic volunteer opportunities. If you're interested in wildlife conservation, community support, or healthcare, Tanzania welcomes you.
This guide covers volunteer visa for Tanzania, detailing the application process and the necessary documents to help you make a positive impact as a volunteer in this remarkable country.
A volunteer visa allows you to stay in a foreign country for a specific period to engage in unpaid volunteer work.
An Ordinary/Tourist Tanzanian Visa (Single entry) is typically used for short-term volunteer stints (under three months). For the ease of reference, we will use the term "Volunteer Visa" throughout this guide to denote the Ordinary/Tourist Visa typically used for short-term volunteer placements.
The volunteer visa can be acquired upon arrival at select airports or through an online application prior to travel.
For volunteering in Tanzania, you have two main visa options depending on the length and frequency of your stays:
Single-entry Volunteer e-Visa: This visa permits a stay of up to 90 days and is valid for three months from the date of issuance. It is suitable for volunteers who plan to stay in Tanzania continuously for short-term projects.
Multiple-entry Volunteer e-Visa: Valid for 1 year, but each stay in Tanzania is limited to 90 days. It is ideal for volunteers who need to enter and exit Tanzania multiple times over the year for various projects or duties.
To secure a Volunteer visa, you must full fill ceratin a criteria. You need an endorsement from a recognized volunteer organization within Tanzania, which should supply a volunteer placement letter for your visa process.
Furthermore, you must present details of your travel plans, including both your return flight and lodging arrangements in Tanzania.
Proof of financial backing is also necessary, which can be demonstrated through a bank statement or a support letter from your sponsoring organization.
To apply for a volunteer e-Visa, you must provide the following documents.
Proof of volunteer placement confirms your volunteer role abroad and typically includes:
This document is required for a Volunteer Visa to show your acceptance for a specific role with a registered non-profit organization.
Proof of sufficient financial support demonstrates you can cover your expenses while volunteering abroad. For a Tanzania Volunteer e-Visa, you may need to show:
Volunteering in Tanzania is an enriching experience, but prioritizing your health is key. Here's a quick guide:
The processing time for a volunteer e-Visa in Tanzania varies based on the visa type and chosen processing speed. Standard processing typically takes 10 - 12 Working Days. Rush processing is available for an extra charge, potentially reducing waiting times to as little as 6 - 8 Working Days. For more information, check the Tanzania Visa Application Form Guide.
Here are some key points about Tanzanian culture and customs:
Understanding and respecting these customs will help you build meaningful relationships while volunteering in Tanzania.
Before You Arrive:
Building Meaningful Connections:
Measuring Your Impact:
Yes, vaccinations are recommended for diseases like yellow fever, hepatitis A & B, and malaria. Consult a doctor or travel clinic to determine the specifics for your trip.
Pack insect repellent, a mosquito net, and long-sleeved clothing to minimize mosquito bites. Additionally, bring a reusable water bottle and a first-aid kit.
The Tanzanian Shilling (TZS) is the official currency. While some places may accept USD or Euros, exchanging for TZS is recommended for most purchases.
It is advisable to drink from bottled water instead of tap when drinking and brushing your teeth.
Disclaimer: This information was last updated in January 2025. Please verify with the relevant agencies, embassies, and airlines to ensure the accuracy of your travel plans.
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