Nigerians travelling to Tanzania have received a major change in the visa process, with the East African country removing Nigeria from its Referred Visa Category.

The change means Nigerian travellers no longer need the additional special immigration clearance that was previously required before their visa applications could be processed.

Tanzania’s Immigration Services Department said the change took effect immediately following amendments published in Government Gazette No. 246 of 2026.

What has changed?

Previously, Nigerians were among nationals required to go through Tanzania’s referred visa process.

Under that system, applicants could be required to obtain approval from Tanzania’s immigration authorities before travelling.

That additional step has now been removed for Nigerian citizens.

The Tanzania Immigration Services Department said Nigerians will instead follow the standard visa application procedure through its official online immigration portal or designated entry points.

Does this mean Nigerians can now travel to Tanzania without a visa?

No.

This is an important distinction.

Nigeria’s removal from the Referred Visa Category does not automatically make travel to Tanzania visa-free for Nigerian passport holders.

Tanzania’s official visa guidance lists Nigeria among countries whose nationals are required to obtain a visa. The change means Nigerians are no longer subject to the additional referred-visa procedure.

Why is the change important?

The previous referral requirement created an additional hurdle for Nigerians planning to visit Tanzania.

Travellers could face extra documentation and a longer approval process before making firm travel arrangements.

The new arrangement should make the application process more straightforward because Nigerians can now use the country’s standard visa procedures.

This could be relevant to:

• Tourists
• Business travellers
• Investors
• Conference participants
• Nigerians visiting friends and relatives

How can Nigerians apply?

Tanzania’s immigration authorities advise applicants to use the official Tanzania Immigration Services website for visa applications.

The official guidance says applicants can apply online and should ensure their passports have at least six months’ validity and an unused visa page. Travellers are also required to meet the other entry conditions applicable to their visit.

What Nigerians should remember

The removal of the referral requirement makes the process easier, but travellers should still check the latest official requirements before booking their trip.

Visa rules can change, and approval of a visa does not by itself guarantee entry at the border.

For Nigerian travellers planning a trip to Tanzania, the key message is simple:

The special referred-visa restriction has been removed, but Nigerian passport holders should still follow Tanzania’s normal visa requirements.

Utelnova will continue to bring readers practical updates affecting Nigerians at home and abroad.