Tanzania Removes Nigeria From Referred Visa Category, Ends Two-Month Clearance Wait

Tanzania has removed Nigeria from its Referred Visa Category, scrapping the extra immigration clearance that Nigerian applicants previously needed before applying for a visa. The change took immediate effect.

The Tanzania Immigration Services Department announced the decision in a notice dated September 25, 2026, signed by its Chief Spokesperson, ACI Paul Mselle. The department said the move followed amendments published in Government Gazette No. 246 of 2026. Though dated September 25, the notice was published on social media on Monday, September 28.

What has changed

Nigerian nationals will now follow Tanzania's regular visa application procedures instead of the additional clearance previously required for travellers from countries classified under the referral system.

"With immediate effect, Nigerian nationals traveling to the United Republic of Tanzania are no longer subject to referred visa restrictions and will follow standard visa application procedures through the official immigration online portal or designated entry points," the department said.

Previously, Nigerian applicants under the Referred Visa Category needed approval from the Office of the Commissioner General of Immigration before travelling. Applicants in that category were also advised to submit their visa requests at least two months before their intended travel dates, making the process considerably longer than a standard application.

Nigerians still need a visa

The eased requirements do not mean Nigerians can travel to Tanzania without a visa. Tanzania's immigration information still lists Nigeria among Commonwealth countries whose citizens require visas to enter the country.

Nigerian travellers can apply online through the country's official immigration portal or obtain a visa at designated entry points. Authorities recommend applying online before travelling. Standard online visa applications are generally processed within 10 days, according to the country's immigration guidelines. Travellers are advised to wait for their approval notification or Visa Grant Notice before starting their journey.

Nigerians travelling to Tanzania for tourism must obtain an Ordinary Visa, which costs $50 and allows a stay of up to 90 days. Applicants must hold passports valid for at least six months from the date of travel, with at least one unused visa page. Visitors may also be required to present a return ticket on arrival.

What it means for Nigerian travellers

The decision could make Tanzania more accessible to Nigerian tourists and business travellers by removing the lengthy referral clearance stage and the two-month waiting window that came with it. Tanzania Immigration Services advises travellers to apply only through its official channels and to check current requirements before travelling, as immigration rules and visa conditions may change.