zanzibar tanzania visa requirements from Pakistan

Planning a trip to Zanzibar from Pakistan? Before you pack your bags for this tropical paradise, it’s essential to know the Zanzibar Tanzania visa requirements for Pakistani passport holders. Without the right visa, you might face entry issues at the airport, ruining your dream vacation.

But don’t worry! This guide will walk you through everything you need to know about getting a Zanzibar visa from Pakistan, including:
✅ Visa types & eligibility
✅ Step-by-step visa application process
✅ Fees, processing time & documents required
✅ Travel restrictions & rules
✅ Quick travel tips for tourists

By the end of this guide, you’ll have a clear roadmap for getting your Zanzibar visa hassle-free, ensuring a smooth journey to this stunning island destination.

👉 Let’s dive in!

Do Pakistanis Need a Visa for Zanzibar, Tanzania?

Yes, Pakistani citizens need a visa to enter Zanzibar, Tanzania. There is no visa-free entry for Pakistanis, meaning you must obtain a valid visa before traveling.

Zanzibar is part of Tanzania, so the Tanzania visa applies to Zanzibar as well. Whether you’re visiting for tourism, business, or transit, you’ll need to apply for the correct visa type.

Visa Options for Pakistanis Traveling to Zanzibar

Pakistani travelers can get a Tanzania visa through:
1️⃣ E-Visa (Recommended) – Apply online before traveling
2️⃣ Visa on Arrival – Get a visa at Zanzibar Airport (risky)
3️⃣ Embassy Visa – Apply at the Tanzanian Embassy in Pakistan

While Visa on Arrival is available, it is not guaranteed and may lead to long wait times or rejections. The safest and easiest option is to apply for a Tanzania eVisa online before departure.

Is Zanzibar’s Visa Different from Mainland Tanzania?

No, Zanzibar follows the same visa policy as the rest of Tanzania. If you have a valid Tanzania visa, you can freely visit Zanzibar, Dar es Salaam, Serengeti, and other regions without applying for a separate visa.

Types of Visas Available for Pakistanis to Visit Zanzibar

Before applying, it’s important to know the different types of visas available for Pakistani travelers visiting Zanzibar. Your visa choice depends on the purpose of your visit and length of stay.

1. Tanzania Tourist Visa (Single Entry) – Best for Travelers

✅ Validity: 90 days
✅ Purpose: Tourism, visiting family/friends
✅ Best for: Pakistani tourists on vacation

The Single Entry Tourist Visa allows Pakistani citizens to explore Zanzibar and mainland Tanzania for up to 90 days. It is non-extendable, meaning you must exit the country before it expires.

2. Multiple Entry Visa – Best for Frequent Travelers

✅ Validity: 3 months to 12 months
✅ Purpose: Frequent visits for business/tourism
✅ Best for: Pakistani business travelers & frequent visitors

If you travel frequently between Pakistan and Tanzania (including Zanzibar), a Multiple Entry Visa is a better option. It allows multiple visits without reapplying each time.

3. Tanzania Business Visa – Best for Work-Related Travel

✅ Validity: Up to 90 days
✅ Purpose: Business meetings, conferences, or short-term work
✅ Best for: Pakistani professionals attending business events

A Business Visa is required if you are visiting Zanzibar for business purposes, such as meetings, conferences, or work assignments. It does not allow long-term employment in Tanzania.

4. Tanzania Transit Visa – Best for Short Stopovers

✅ Validity: Up to 7 days
✅ Purpose: Short stopover before heading to another country
✅ Best for: Pakistanis transiting through Tanzania

If you are passing through Zanzibar or Tanzania on your way to another destination, you can apply for a Transit Visa, valid for up to 7 days.

5. Tanzania Student Visa – Best for Education in Zanzibar

✅ Validity: Course duration
✅ Purpose: Studying in Tanzania
✅ Best for: Pakistani students enrolling in Tanzanian universities

If you plan to study in Zanzibar or Tanzania, you need a Student Visa. This visa requires proof of university admission and is granted for the duration of your studies.

Which Visa Should You Choose?

✔️ If you’re going for tourism, apply for a Single Entry Tourist Visa.
✔️ If you travel often, a Multiple Entry Visa is more convenient.
✔️ If it’s for business, you need a Business Visa.
✔️ If you have a short layover, go for a Transit Visa.
✔️ If you’re studying, apply for a Student Visa.

How to Apply for a Zanzibar Visa from Pakistan (Step-by-Step Guide)

Applying for a Tanzania visa from Pakistan is simple if you follow the right process. You have three options:

1️⃣ Apply Online (E-Visa) – Fast & recommended
2️⃣ Visa on Arrival – Risky & uncertain
3️⃣ Apply via Embassy – Requires an in-person visit

Below is a detailed guide for the best and most reliable method – E-Visa.

Step 1: Visit the Tanzania E-Visa Website

Go to the official Tanzania e-Visa portal:
🔗 https://eservices.immigration.go.tz/visa/

⚠️ Avoid fake visa websites! Only use the official Tanzanian government website to prevent scams.

Step 2: Select Your Visa Type

Choose the correct visa category based on your purpose:
✔️ Tourist Visa (for vacation)
✔️ Business Visa (for work-related visits)
✔️ Transit Visa (for short stopovers)

After selecting, click “Apply Now.”

Step 3: Fill Out the Visa Application Form

Provide accurate personal details, including:
📝 Full name (as per passport)
📝 Passport number & expiry date
📝 Travel itinerary (arrival & departure dates)
📝 Accommodation details (hotel booking or invitation letter)

Double-check for mistakes, as errors may delay or reject your application.

Step 4: Upload Required Documents

Scan and upload clear copies of the required documents:

📌 Pakistani Passport (valid for at least 6 months)
📌 Recent Passport-size Photo (as per guidelines)
📌 Flight Booking Confirmation (not always required, but recommended)
📌 Hotel Reservation or Invitation Letter (from host in Tanzania)
📌 Proof of Funds (bank statement showing you can cover your trip expenses)

Step 5: Pay the Visa Fee Online

Pay the visa processing fee using a credit/debit card. Fees vary based on the visa type:

💰 Tourist Visa (Single Entry): $50
💰 Business Visa: $250
💰 Multiple Entry Visa: $100
💰 Transit Visa: $30

You’ll receive a payment confirmation receipt after making a successful payment.

Step 6: Wait for Visa Approval

📩 Processing Time: 7–10 working days (but apply at least 3 weeks in advance to avoid delays).
📩 Approval Notification: You’ll get an email confirmation once your visa is approved.

👉 Download and print the visa approval letter, as you must show it at Zanzibar Airport upon arrival.

Alternative: Visa on Arrival for Pakistanis (⚠️ Not Recommended)

Pakistanis can get a visa on arrival at Zanzibar Airport, but it’s risky:
❌ Long wait times (1-2 hours)
❌ Possibility of rejection
❌ Must carry exact visa fee in cash (USD)

For a hassle-free experience, it’s strongly advised to apply for an eVisa in advance.

Tip: Apply Early to Avoid Delays!

✔️ Apply online at least 3 weeks before travel
✔️ Ensure your passport is valid for at least 6 months
✔️ Have all required documents ready

zanzibar tanzania visa requirements for Pakistanis – Documents Checklist

To successfully get a Tanzania visa for Zanzibar, Pakistani travelers must submit specific documents that prove their eligibility. Below is the complete checklist based on the visa type.

📌 General Documents for All Visa Types

Every Pakistani applicant must provide:

✅ Valid Pakistani Passport – Must be valid for at least 6 months from the travel date.
✅ Recent Passport-size Photo – As per Tanzanian visa guidelines (clear background, high resolution).
✅ Visa Application Form – Accurately filled out online or at the Tanzanian Embassy.
✅ Flight Itinerary – Proof of round-trip booking or onward travel.
✅ Proof of Accommodation – Hotel booking confirmation or an invitation letter from a host in Tanzania.
✅ Proof of Funds – Recent bank statement showing sufficient balance to cover your trip expenses.
✅ Visa Fee Payment Receipt – Confirmation of online or embassy payment.

📌 Additional Documents Based on Visa Type

📍 Tourist Visa (Single/Multiple Entry)
🔹 Same as the general list above.

📍 Business Visa
🔹 Invitation Letter from a Tanzanian company or conference organizer.
🔹 Company Registration & Tax Clearance Certificate (from the inviting business).

📍 Student Visa
🔹 Official Admission Letter from a recognized Tanzanian institution.
🔹 Proof of Tuition Fee Payment.
🔹 Sponsor’s Bank Statement (if applicable).

📍 Transit Visa
🔹 Proof of onward travel (confirmed flight ticket to a third country).

⚠️ Common Reasons for Visa Rejection (Avoid These Mistakes!)

❌ Incomplete application form – Always double-check before submitting.
❌ Passport validity less than 6 months – Renew if necessary before applying.
❌ Insufficient bank balance – Ensure you have enough funds.
❌ Fake hotel or flight bookings – These can lead to visa denial.

Tip: Prepare All Documents in Advance!

✔️ Scan and upload clear copies for online applications.
✔️ Check all details carefully to avoid errors.
✔️ Apply at least 3 weeks before your trip to allow processing time.

Zanzibar Visa Fees and Processing Time for Pakistani Travelers

Understanding the visa costs and processing time is crucial before applying. Below is the official fee structure and expected approval timeline for Pakistani travelers.

📌 Zanzibar Visa Fees for Pakistanis

The visa fee depends on the type of visa you apply for.

📌 Note: Visa fees are non-refundable, even if your application is rejected.

📌 Zanzibar Visa Processing Time

⏳ Pro Tip: Apply at least 3 weeks before your trip to avoid last-minute delays.

📌 Express Visa Processing: Is It Available?

❌ No official express service is available for Pakistani travelers. However, some applicants report faster approvals (3–5 days) for e-Visas, depending on the workload of the Tanzanian immigration department.

📌 How to Pay the Visa Fee?

💳 E-Visa: Online payment via credit/debit card.
💵 Embassy Application: Payment via bank draft or cash (as per embassy guidelines).
💰 Visa on Arrival: Cash payment in US Dollars (USD) only.

⚠️ Important: Always carry extra USD cash when traveling, in case of unexpected visa fees at the airport.

Tip: Apply for an E-Visa to Avoid Delays!

✔️ Cheaper & faster than visa on arrival
✔️ Avoid long airport queues
✔️ No risk of rejection upon arrival

Zanzibar Immigration & Entry Rules for Pakistanis

Once your Tanzania visa is approved, you still need to comply with Zanzibar’s immigration and entry regulations to avoid any issues at the airport. Below are the key rules and requirements Pakistani travelers must follow upon arrival.

📌 Essential Entry Requirements at Zanzibar Airport

When you land at Abeid Amani Karume International Airport (ZNZ) in Zanzibar, immigration officers will check:

✅ Valid Pakistani Passport (must have at least 6 months validity)
✅ Printed E-Visa Approval Letter (if you applied online)
✅ Return Ticket or Onward Travel Proof (to confirm you’ll leave before the visa expires)
✅ Hotel Booking Confirmation or Invitation Letter (to verify accommodation details)
✅ Proof of Funds (bank statement or cash to cover trip expenses)
✅ Vaccination Certificate (If Required) (see health guidelines below)

🔹 Pro Tip: Keep these documents in hand luggage for easy access during immigration checks.

📌 Health & Vaccination Rules for Pakistanis Traveling to Zanzibar

Zanzibar follows strict health guidelines for incoming travelers.

💉 Yellow Fever Vaccination

• Required if you are traveling from a high-risk country.
• If you have a layover of 12+ hours in a country with yellow fever risk (e.g., Kenya), you must show a yellow fever vaccination certificate.
• Not required if traveling directly from Pakistan.

🦠 COVID-19 Regulations

• No COVID-19 test required for fully vaccinated travelers.
• Unvaccinated travelers may need to show a negative PCR test (taken within 72 hours before departure).

🔹 Pro Tip: Always check Tanzania’s latest health travel advisories before flying.

📌 Customs Rules & Baggage Restrictions in Zanzibar

Zanzibar has strict customs regulations on what you can bring into the country.

🚫 Prohibited Items
❌ Drugs, narcotics, and unprescribed medication
❌ Pornographic materials
❌ Fresh fruits, vegetables, and plants (without a permit)
❌ Firearms and weapons (unless pre-approved)

✅ Allowed Duty-Free Items
✔️ Personal belongings (clothing, toiletries, etc.)
✔️ Up to 250g of tobacco products
✔️ Alcohol (not exceeding 1 liter)
✔️ Personal electronics (camera, laptop, phone, etc.)

🔹 Pro Tip: Declare any expensive gadgets (e.g., drones, professional cameras) to avoid customs issues.

📌 Can Pakistani Travelers Extend Their Visa in Zanzibar?

Yes! If you wish to stay longer, you can apply for a visa extension at the Immigration Office in Zanzibar.

🔹 Where to Apply?

• Zanzibar Immigration Office (near Stone Town)
• Tanzania Immigration Headquarters (Dar es Salaam)

🔹 Extension Fees & Duration:

• Tourist Visa Extension: Can be extended up to 6 months (fees apply).
• Business Visa Extension: Depends on your purpose and local authorities’ approval.

⚠️ Overstaying is illegal and can result in heavy fines or deportation. Always extend your visa before it expires.

Tip: Follow Immigration Rules for a Hassle-Free Trip!

✔️ Keep essential travel documents ready for arrival
✔️ Follow Zanzibar’s health & customs rules
✔️ Apply for visa extensions in advance if needed

Zanzibar Travel Tips for Pakistani Tourists

Planning your trip to Zanzibar from Pakistan? Here are some must-know travel tips to help you navigate everything from currency exchange to local customs.

📌 Best Time to Visit Zanzibar

⏳ When should Pakistanis travel to Zanzibar?

✔️ June – October (Dry Season) – Best weather, fewer mosquitoes, and ideal for beach vacations.
✔️ December – February (Short Dry Season) – Warm temperatures, perfect for snorkeling and diving.
❌ Avoid March – May (Heavy Rainfall) – Frequent downpours and humidity can affect travel plans.

🔹 Pro Tip: Plan your trip during off-peak months (May & November) for cheaper flights and hotel deals.

📌 Currency & Money Exchange in Zanzibar

💰 Official Currency: Tanzanian Shilling (TZS), but US Dollars (USD) are widely accepted.

💵 Exchange Tips:

• Bring USD in new, untorn bills (post-2009 prints) for best exchange rates.
• Exchange currency at official forex bureaus in Stone Town or the airport.
• Avoid exchanging money on the street (risk of scams).
• Credit cards are accepted at major hotels but may include a 5-7% fee.

🔹 Pro Tip: Withdraw cash from ATMs in Stone Town before heading to remote islands or beaches.

📌 Language & Communication

🗣️ Languages Spoken:
✔️ Swahili – Official language, spoken by locals.
✔️ English – Widely spoken in hotels, restaurants, and tourist areas.

📖 Basic Swahili Phrases to Know:

• Jambo! – Hello!
• Asante Sana! – Thank you very much!
• Habari? – How are you?
• Pesa ngapi? – How much does it cost?
• Nzuri! – Good!

🔹 Pro Tip: Learning a few Swahili words will make your trip more enjoyable and locals appreciate the effort!

📌 Transport & Getting Around Zanzibar

🚕 How to travel in Zanzibar?

✔️ Dala-dala (Shared Minibuses) – Cheapest option but crowded (fare: TSZ 500–2,000).
✔️ Taxis – Safe but expensive; always negotiate fares in advance.
✔️ Boda-boda (Motorbike Taxis) – Affordable but use only licensed riders.
✔️ Car Rentals – Available but requires an International Driving Permit.

🔹 Pro Tip: Pre-book airport transfers or taxis online to avoid scams.

📌 Food & Halal Options for Pakistani Travelers

🍛 Zanzibar has plenty of halal-friendly food due to its Muslim-majority population.

🥘 Must-Try Local Dishes:
✔️ Zanzibar Biryani – Similar to Pakistani biryani but with a local twist.
✔️ Urojo (Zanzibar Mix) – A spicy and tangy soup with potatoes, bhajiyas, and peanuts.
✔️ Grilled Seafood Platters – Fresh lobsters, prawns, and squid, especially at Forodhani Night Market.
✔️ Mandazi – Fried doughnut-like snack, perfect with tea.

🔹 Pro Tip: Most restaurants serve halal food, but always confirm before ordering.

📌 Cultural Etiquette & Safety Tips

✔️ Dress Modestly in Public – Zanzibar is a Muslim-majority region; avoid revealing clothes in towns.
✔️ Respect Local Customs – During Ramadan, eating in public is discouraged.
✔️ Beware of Tourist Scams – Avoid overpriced beach tours by booking with licensed operators.
✔️ Use Mosquito Repellent – Zanzibar is a tropical island; protect yourself from bites.
✔️ Stay Alert at Night – Avoid walking alone in deserted areas after dark.

🔹 Pro Tip: Greet locals with “Salam Alaikum” for a friendly response.

Tip: Enjoy Zanzibar’s Beauty with Smart Planning!

✔️ Choose the best travel season for budget-friendly flights.
✔️ Exchange money at trusted locations to avoid fraud.
✔️ Respect local culture for a smooth and enjoyable experience.