Permit and Registrations
About Permit and Registrations
Residence and Work Permits: Class A, B, and C
Foreigners intending to live in Tanzania for purposes such as investment, business, or work must obtain residence permits.
1. Types of Residence Permits
- Class A: For foreigners investing in industries such as mining, business, or social services.
- Class B: For expatriates employed by companies or institutions.
- Class C: For other categories like students, researchers, volunteers, missionaries, and retired individuals.
Permits are issued by the Director of Immigration Services. Applicants dissatisfied with the Director’s decision can appeal to the Minister of Home Affairs from outside Tanzania. Class B and C applications should be submitted while the applicant is not in the country.
2. Requirements for Residence Permit Class A
This permit is for investors in industries, mining, or businesses.
Initial Application Documents:
- Two completed TIF 1 forms
- Cover letter from the applicant
- Six passport-size photos
- Curriculum vitae (CV)
- Education certificates (if applicable)
- Business license
- Taxpayer Identification Number (TIN) and VAT registration certificates
- Business registration copy
- Memorandum and articles of association
- Business premises proof
- Sectoral approvals (if needed)
- Share certificate or transfer and board resolution for shareholders
- Director’s power of attorney
- Passport copies showing nationality and validity
- Tax clearance certificate
- Proof of invested capital (e.g., bank/financial statements)
Renewal Documents:
- Same as initial documents plus:
- Annual company returns (C-9 forms)
- Copy of issued permit and original permit
Applicants not qualifying under the TIC must show proof of assets or a bank statement valued at USD $300,000.
For dependent endorsements, proof of relationship (marriage and birth certificates) is needed. The fee for a Class A permit is USD $1600 for two years, with renewal at the same cost. An additional USD $20 is charged for a re-entry pass.
3. Requirements for Residence Permit Class B
This permit is for skilled expatriates employed in Tanzania.
Initial Application Documents:
- Completed TIF 1 forms
- Cover letter
- Certificate of incorporation
- Business license and tax clearance certificate
- TIN certificate
- Passport copy
- Employment contract with repatriation clause
- Applicant’s CV
- Five passport-size photos
- Organization chart
- Memorandum and articles of association
- Professional registration certificates for specific roles (e.g., doctors, engineers)
- No objection letter and current immigration status if changing employers
Fees:
- Permit: USD $600
- Re-entry pass: USD $20
- Dependents: USD $20 each for re-entry passes
Dependents under 18 attending school must apply for a Class C permit. Expatriates should not be in Tanzania while awaiting Class B permits unless changing employers, in which case a special pass is needed under section 12 of the Immigration Regulations (1997).
Renewal Documents:
- Same as initial documents plus a copy of the granted permit
4. Zanzibar Procedures
Additional documents required:
- Cover letter from Zanzibar Investment Promotion Agency (ZIPA) or Export Processing Zones (EPZ) Authority
- Four passport-size photos
- Police clearance
Foreign Investors and Expatriate Staff
Investors apply for Class A permits, while expatriate staff apply for Class B permits. Class C permits are for students, researchers, and other categories. Applications for Class A and C are submitted directly to the Director of Immigration Services, while Class B applications go through the Labour Commissioner.
Government-Related Expatriates
Applications for expatriates in government-funded projects should be processed through the respective ministry and forwarded to the Ministry of Manpower for approval, allowing the Director of Immigration Services to issue an Exemption Certificate. Basic attachments include five photos, a covering letter, and passport copies.
For more information, contact: Director of Immigration Services
P.O. Box 512, Dar es Salaam, Tanzania
Tel: +255 211 8640
Fax: +255 22 211 2174 / 211 2181
Public Announcement from the Principal Commissioner of Immigration Services in Tanzania
We would like to inform our clients and the general public that, effective from July 1, 2011, as per Government Notices (G.N.) No. 185, 186, and 189 dated July 1, 2011, there have been changes in the fee rates for various services provided by the Immigration Department. These changes include:
1. Residence Permits
For further details regarding specific fee adjustments and how they may affect applications or services, please contact the Immigration Department or refer to the relevant Government Notices.
| S/N | TYPE OF SERVICE | FEES RATE |
| 1. | Residence Permit Class “A” For large Capital Investors in Companies, Industries, Fishing, Mineral and Transportation. | US $2000 First issue and renewal |
| 2. | Residence Permit Class “A” For Peasants | US $50 First issue and renewal |
| 3. | Residence Permit Class “B”For employees in industries, Private Companies, Public Cooperation, Fishing, Mines, Transportation and Music bands. | US $1,500 First issue and renewal |
| 4. | Residence Permit Class “C”For Missionaries, Researchers and Students | US $500 First issue and renewal |
2. Passes
| S/N | TYPE OF SERVICE | FEES RATE |
| 1. | Dependant Pass | US $500 First issue and renewal |
| 2. | Special Pass | US $600 |
| 3. | Visitors Pass (CTA) | US $200 |
| 4. | Re-entry Pass | US $50 |
3. Visas (Please refer to rates set for Applicants at the Tanzania Embassy / High Commision)
4. Citizenship
| S/N | TYPE OF SERVICE | FEES RATE |
| 1. | Naturalization* | US $5,000 |
*A fee of US $1,500 is payable upon submission of the application for naturalization, while US. $3,500 is paid after the approval of the application for the grant of Citizenship by the Minister responsible for citizenship matters.
Exemption Certificate
The Exemption Certificate is granted to:
- Diplomats, envoys accredited to Tanzania, consuls, and foreign nationals contracted by the government
- Spouses and dependent children of diplomats
- Foreign expatriates working on government projects
- Students from East African Community (EAC) Member States
Note: No fee is charged for the Exemption Certificate.
Requirements for Obtaining an Exemption Certificate:
- Cover letter from the relevant institution
- Completed application form
- Letter from the President’s Office Public Service Management (not required for EAC students)
- Copy of Work Permit from the Labour Commissioner’s Office (for exemptions)
- Passport copy
- Five passport-size photos
- Curriculum Vitae (CV)
- Academic certificates
- Previous exemption certificate for renewals
Exemption Certificate for EAC Students:
- Cover letter from a registered university/college/institute
- Completed application form
- Passport copy
- Admission letter from the educational institution
- Five passport-size photos
- Academic certificates
- Previous exemption certificate for renewals
Requirements for Family Members under Exemption Certificate:
- Passport copy of the dependent
- Copy of the marriage certificate for a spouse
- Copy of the birth certificate for children
When dependents are included, the following documents should accompany the application:
- Identification pages of the dependent’s passport(s)
- Marriage certificate
- Birth certificate of the child or children
Media Permit
Foreign companies, groups, and individuals intending to work as journalists, photographers, TV and film producers, researchers, or authors in Tanzania must apply for a media permit. Applications for media permits (journalistic, filming, or photography) in both Tanzania Mainland and Zanzibar need to be endorsed by the High Commission and returned to the applicant.
With assistance from the host institution or individual, the endorsed application form and fee should be submitted at least one month before the assignment start date to:
Director,
National Film Censorship Board
Department of Culture Development
Ministry of Information, Youth, Culture and Sports
P.O Box 8031, DAR ES SALAAM
Tel: +255 222121920 / 222123931 / 222117819
Fax: +255 222121920 / 222123931 / 222117819
Email: km@hum.go.tz / filmboardtz@hum.go.tz / filmboardtanzania@yahoo.com
For Zanzibar:
Information Department
P.O Box 2754, Zanzibar
Tel: 2231073 / 2231011
Fax: 2231011
Email: habarimaelezo@yahoo.co.uk
For more details on filming permits, press accreditation, broadcasting, and fees, please visit https://www.tanzania.go.tz/massmedia.
Note: Applying for a media permit is separate from applying for an entry visa, which should be submitted to the nearest consulate or embassy. Residence and work permit applications must be made to the Tanzanian Immigration Department before entry.
Research Permit
Tanzania Information Services (MAELEZO)
P.O. Box 9142, Dar es Salaam, Tanzania
Tel: +255-22-211-0585 / 212-2771 / 211-2860
Fax: +255-22-211-3814 / 211-6474
Ensure the following documents are prepared and submitted to the High Commission for authorization:
- Completed application form
- Cover letter
- Synopsis or script
- Equipment list
- List of crew members (if applicable)
Payments should be made payable to Tanzania Information Services.
Research Permit Requirements
Research Permit Requirements
Applicants must submit a completed research clearance application, accompanied by a CV and a research synopsis or script. This application should be submitted at least two months prior to the start date of the research project.
Permit Requirements:
- A copy of the passport pages containing detailed information of the holder.
- Five passport-sized photographs of the applicant.
- An introduction letter from the inviting institution or university.
- CV and certification of education from the applicant’s attended university or institution.
- A completed application form, which can be [link]downloaded or obtained from the immigration office.
- A residence permit fee of USD $120, payable at the immigration office.
- A completed Research Clearance form, available for download or from the Tanzania Commission for Science and Technology (COSTECH).
- An application fee of USD $50, to be paid at COSTECH.
Successful Applications: If approved, applicants will need to pay a research fee of USD $300 per person at COSTECH.
Submission Information: Researchers and authors should submit their applications and fees directly to:
Director General,
Tanzania Commission for Science and Technology (COSTECH)
P.O. Box 4302, Dar es Salaam, Tanzania
Tel: +255-22-700745/6/9, 75311/2
Fax: +255-22-775313/4
Email: costech@costech.or.tz
Website: www.costech.or.tz
Note: This research permit is separate from the entry visa, which must be obtained from the nearest Consulate/Embassy. Applications for Resident and Work Permits must be submitted to the Tanzanian immigration department before entry.
RESEARCH GUIDELINES AND APPLICATION FORMS
- Tanzania Wildlife Research Institute (TAWIRI) Research Guidelines
- Tanzania Wildlife Research Institute (TAWIRI) Application Forms
- Tanzania Commission of Science and Technology (COSTECH website)
- COSTECH application form
- COSTECH Curriculum Vitae form
- National Institute of Medical Research (NIMR website)
Residency Permit Information
- Tanzania Conservation Resource Centre (CRC) – non-profit crew supporting foreign students and researchers (TCRC Website)
- Residence Permit form
Import Permit for Food, Plants, Pets, and Animal Products
Applications for import permits should be addressed to:
Permanent Secretary
Ministry of Agriculture and Food Security
P.O. Box 9192, Dar es Salaam, Tanzania
Tel: +255 22 2862480/1
Fax: +255 22 2862077
Email: psk@Kilimo.go.tz
Director of Veterinary Services
Ministry of Water and Livestock Development
Temeke Veterinary Office
P.O. Box 9152, Dar es Salaam
Tel: +255 22 2862592
Fax: +255 22 2862538
Email: zoosanitary@mifugo.go.tz / epid1@mifugo.go.tz
Regulatory Measures:
- Special Import Permits: Required for importing fresh fruits, plants, plant parts, and seeds, issued by the Director of Agriculture and Food Security.
- Meat and Edible Products: Permit from the National Food Commission is needed for importing meat, offal, and edible plant products.
- Live Animals: Importation of horses, dogs, cats, swine, sheep, and goats requires a permit from the Ministry of Water and Livestock Development.
- Plant Materials: Permits from the Ministry of Agriculture and Food Security are mandatory for live trees, plant parts, cut flowers, and raw vegetable materials.
Prohibited Imports:
- Food products containing cyclamates or their salts are not allowed.
Technical Regulations:
- Proof of three-year wood storage is required for spirits (excluding certain types like brandy).
- Medicines and food must have a minimum shelf life of six months upon entry.
- Every imported animal must be accompanied by a veterinary health certificate from the exporting country.
- Plants and plant products must have a sanitary certificate from the exporting country, issued by a recognized official.
- Specific labeling requirements apply to items such as canned milk and ghee.
Inspections and Quarantine:
- Animals are subject to veterinary checks and potential quarantine at the port of entry.
- Imported plants undergo inspection and quarantine regulations at designated entry points.
Special Customs Procedures:
- Imported animals and specific plants (e.g., coffee, maize, wheat) must enter through designated ports.
Pet Importation Guidelines:
- Dogs and cats require health and vaccination certificates, with rabies vaccinations administered 1–3 months prior to entry.
- Applicants must send a request for an import permit to the Director of Veterinary Services, including pet details and vaccination records.
Recommended Vaccinations:
- DHLP: For Distemper, Hepatitis, Leptospirosis, and Parvo.
- Puppies should receive initial vaccinations at 5–7 weeks, with follow-ups two weeks and six weeks later, including rabies.
- Worming treatments every three months or tablet administration every 45 days are advised.
Note:
- Hosts in Tanzania can assist in permit collection.
- Pets are examined at entry points and may be quarantined if necessary.
- An export permit is needed to take pets back out of Tanzania.
- Entry visa applications should be made separately through the nearest Consulate/Embassy. Resident and work permit applications must be submitted to the Tanzanian immigration department prior to arrival.
Police Clearance Certificate
For individuals needing a Police Clearance Certificate for “Criminal Records,” please note that this Embassy does not issue such certificates. Instead, follow the steps below:
Contact Address: The Director
Forensic Bureau – Criminal Investigation Department Headquarters
9 Ghana Ohio Road
P.O. Box 9094
11483 Dar es Salaam, Tanzania
Tel: +255 22 2110006
Fax: +255 22 2118223
Application Process:
- Have your local police department take your fingerprints and send them to the address above.
- Include a letter requesting a “Certificate of Good Conduct” from the applicant or the requesting institution. This letter should specify the last place of residence in Tanzania, including district, town, street (if available), and house number.
- Send the letter and documents via DHL or another reliable courier, ensuring that shipping and return costs are prepaid. Provide an email address for notification and instructions on how the certificate will be returned at your expense.
- Attach a copy of your passport, including the page with personal details.
- Include two recent passport-sized photographs.
- Provide proof of a $25 payment (plus any applicable overseas and bank charges) made to NBC Tanzania.
Payment Details: Account Name: POLICE FORCE RETENTION COLLECTION ACCOUNT
Bank: NBC Bank
Account Number: 011105003888
Branch: NBC (Corporate Branch)
SWIFT Code: NLCBTZTX
Important Notes:
- Include your current contact details.
- If you need the police certificate authenticated, send it with prepaid return postage or deliver it to the High Commission/Embassy in person. The Embassy will verify it with the relevant Tanzanian authorities, which may take 2–7 working days. A fee of $40 will apply for this service (refer to the “Authentication Section” for more details).
Hati Ya Tabia Njema
Kwa wale wanaotakiwa kuwa na Hati ya Polisi ya Tabia Njema (Police Clearance Certifiate) toka Tanzania hatua zifuatazo zinatakiwa kufuatwa.
- Mwombaji atatakiwa kwenda katika kituo cha Polisi kilichoko karibu naye ili achukuliwe alama za vidole (Certified Fingerprints). Kisha;
Andika barua ya maombi kupatiwa hati hii ya tabia njema. - Ambatanisha USD 25 kama malipo ya huduma ya kutayarisha hati pale CID Dar es Salaam
- Ambatanisha nakala ya hati yako ya kusafiria (passport) ikionyesha jina lako sehemu iliyotolewa na tarehe itapoisha muda wake.
- Ambatanisha karatasi halali zenye alama za vidole – zikiwa na jina, muhuri na sahihi ya afisa aliyechukua
Vitu hivi vyote vitume moja kwa moja kwa
Officer In charge
Forensic Bureau
Criminal Investigation Department Headquarters
P.O. Box 9094. DAR ES SALAAM
Simu: +255 22 211006, 2118637, au +255 754 827940.
Fax Na. +255 22 2112174
Matokeo ya uchunguzi wa taarifa za masuala ya makosa ya jinai (criminal record) hutolewa siku saba baada ya kupokea malipo na kuituma hati hiyo ya tabia njema kwa mwombaji.
*Ikiwa kuna matatizo juu ya ombi hili mwombaji anakaribishwa kuwasiliana na Ubalozi.
Marriage in Tanzania / Abroad
If you plan to get married in Tanzania, you will need a certificate of no impediment from your home country.
Required Documents:
- Proof that you have never been married before
- Divorce certificate (if previously divorced)
- Relevant documents if widowed
- This certificate confirms that there are no known legal barriers to your intended marriage in your home country. Additional documents, such as a birth certificate or personal details from your national population registry, can be helpful. If a church wedding is planned, a letter from your pastor/priest may be beneficial.
“Notice of Marriage” and Application for a “Special Marriages License” If you do not have the required 21 days for the “notice of intention to marry,” you will need to apply for a “Special Marriages License” from the Registrar of Marriages. This application must include a copy of the certificate of no impediment and be signed and legalized by a lawyer or advocate. Once completed, the application is submitted to the Registrar of Marriages, and after paying the necessary fee, the “Special Marriage License” is issued.
With the license, the couple should visit the District Commissioner’s office, church, or mosque (depending on where the ceremony will take place) to set the marriage date. On the day of the wedding, two witnesses (residents or non-residents) must accompany the couple. Following the ceremony, a Tanzanian Marriage Certificate (two copies) is provided.
Compliance with Your Country’s Rules: If an international marriage certificate is required upon return to your home country, the Tanzanian marriage certificate must be registered at the Registrar of Marriages (Arusha Office) using form No. RGM 111 (Application for registration of a foreign marriage). A fee of approximately TZS 22,000 is required for a copy of the Register of Foreign Marriages, and an additional TZS 7,000 is needed for the International Marriage Certificate. This certificate must be certified by the Tanzanian Ministry of Foreign Affairs – Legal Department before being submitted to your Embassy for legalization.
The legal document can then be recorded with your local civil office. Contact your country’s Embassy in Tanzania for more details.
Marriage in Zanzibar For information on marriage in Zanzibar, contact:
Regional Commissioner’s Office Town Council – Vuga, Zanzibar Town Tel: +255 24 230246/7
High Court Town Council – Vuga, Zanzibar Town Tel: +255 24 230182
Requirements:
- Birth certificate in English
- Passport
- Two witnesses (local witnesses can be provided if needed)
- Marriage vows
Zanzibar marriage certificates must be certified by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and East African Cooperation in Dar es Salaam, following the same procedures as above.
Getting Married Abroad (Ndoa) For Tanzanian citizens wishing to marry a foreign citizen where the law requires a certificate of no impediment, this certificate confirms that no legal barriers to marriage are known to Tanzanian authorities (Registrar-General of Marriages).
While the Embassy does not issue these certificates, it can endorse and forward application forms (RGM. 12) to:
Registration Insolvency and Trusteeship Agency (RITA) Kipalapala Street, Upanga
P.O. Box 9183, Dar es Salaam
Tel: +255 2153069 (General line)
Fax: +255 2153075
For more details and to download the (RGM. 12) application form, visit the RITA website.
Registrar of Marriages in Zanzibar: Zanzibar Civil Status Registration Agency (ZCSRA)
Vitambulisho Street, Mazizini, Zanzibar
P.O. Box 4220
Mobile: +255-777-978733
ZCSRA Website
Once issued, the certificate should be brought to the Embassy for endorsement (contact your nearest High Commission/Embassy/Consulate for more details).
