Understanding Residence Permits in Tanzania: A Guide for Foreign Nationals

Thinking of living, investing, or working in Tanzania?

Whether you're an entrepreneur, skilled worker, researcher, retiree, or even a real estate investor, Tanzania welcomes foreign nationals through a structured and legally defined Residence Permit system.

Here's what you need to know:

🛂 Types of Residence Permits in Tanzania

Tanzania issues three main categories of Residence Permits:

Class A – Investors and Self-Employed Individuals For professional artists, industrial and sectoral investors, diaspora investors, and refugee investors.
Requires evidence of minimum investment capital and registration with relevant authorities (e.g., TIC, ZIPA, EPZA).

Class B – Expatriate Employees For foreign nationals with specialized skills not readily available in Tanzania.
Must have a job offer from a Tanzanian employer and relevant qualifications.

Class C – Special Categories Covers researchers, retired persons, missionaries, volunteers, interns, patients seeking medical care, court witnesses, buyers of real estate, and more.
Often requires approval letters, contracts, and supporting documents specific to each subcategory.

📋 Key Application Requirements

While each class has its unique requirements, general documentation includes:
Valid passport (6+ months validity)
Work Permit (where applicable)
Certified academic and professional credentials
Company registration and tax clearance (for Class A & B)
Medical or retirement evidence (for Class C)
Online application submission via: 🔗 www.immigration.go.tz

Note: All applications must be lodged before arrival in Tanzania.
💡 Application Process Highlights
✅ Create an account on the e-permit portal
✅ Submit digital forms and certified documents
✅ Await approvals and payment instructions
✅ Enroll at Immigration Office for biometric capture
✅ Collect your Residence Permit upon issuance
Applications requiring Work Permits are initiated via: 🔗 www.kazi.go.tz