Albania C-Type e-Visa Application Guide for Tanzania Citizens (2026)

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For citizens of the United Republic of Tanzania, traveling from the spice-scented shores of Zanzibar or the bustling streets of Dar es Salaam to the rugged peaks of the Albanian Alps is a journey across continents and cultures. While Tanzania is a leader in regional mobility within the East African Community (EAC), entry into the Republic of Albania is a strictly regulated process managed through a Digital Pre-Clearance system (e-Visa).

There is no "Visa on Arrival" facility for Tanzanian passport holders at Albanian border crossings. Whether you are departing from Julius Nyerere International (DAR), Abeid Amani Karume (ZNZ), or Kilimanjaro International (JRO)—typically connecting through Addis Ababa, Istanbul, or Doha—airlines will verify your travel authorization before you board. Without a printed, valid e-Visa or a qualifying exemption, you will be denied boarding.

This guide is specifically tailored for Tanzanian applicants. It addresses the specific realities of 2026: the use of TZS-based financial proofs, the integration of NIDA identification, and the critical health certifications required for travelers departing from the East African region.

Is a Visa Mandatory for Tanzanian Nationals?

Yes.All holders of a standard Tanzanian passport must obtain a C-Type e-Visa prior to travel. Albania does not currently grant automatic visa-free entry to citizens of Tanzania.

The "Used Visa" Exemption (US/UK/Schengen)

You may be EXEMPT from the Albanian e-Visa application if you hold a valid, multiple-entry visa for certain Western jurisdictions. You do not need to apply for this e-Visa if:

1. You possess a valid, multiple-entry Schengen Visa.

2. You possess a valid, multiple-entry US Visa (B1/B2).

3. You possess a valid, multiple-entry UK Visa.

The Prior Use Rule: The Western visa must have been previously used at least once to enter the issuing country. For example, if you have a US visa and have already visited New York, you can enter Albania visa-free. If the visa is brand new and unused, you must apply for the Albanian e-Visa.

The C-Type Short-Stay Visa Defined

The C-Type Visa is a short-term entry permit for stays that do not exceed 90 days.

• Purpose: Tourism, business meetings, visiting family, or short-term training.

• Duration: Valid for a maximum stay of 90 days within a rolling 180-day period.

• Restriction: This visa does not allow you to work or apply for a residence permit while inside Albania.

Tanzania-Specific Documentation Checklist

Tanzanian applicants must provide evidence of stability and financial sufficiency to satisfy the vetting process.

✅ Passport ValidityYour passport must be valid for at least 6 months beyond your intended travel date. Ensure you are using the biometric East African Community (EAC) passport.

✅ Financial Proof (TZS and Hard Currency)

• The Document: Submit a Bank Statement for the last 6 months.

• Accepted Banks: Statements from CRDB Bank, NMB Bank, Standard Chartered Tanzania, or Stanbic Bank are standard.

• Format: The statement must be officially stamped by the bank. While your balance will be in Tanzanian Shillings (TZS), it is highly recommended to have a balance equivalent to at least €50 per day of your stay.

✅ Identity and National IDs

• NIDA Card: A copy of your National ID (NIDA) card or your NIDA number should be included as supporting identification.

• Translations: While many Tanzanian documents are issued in English or are bilingual (Swahili/English), any document strictly in Swahili must be translated into English and notarized.

✅ Employment and Professional Ties

• Employees: A letter from your employer on company letterhead confirming your position, salary, and authorized leave dates.

• Business Owners: A copy of your BRELA (Business Registrations and Licensing Agency) certificates and your TIN (Taxpayer Identification Number) certificate.

• Zanzibar Residents: If you are a business owner in Zanzibar, include your ZBPRA (Zanzibar Business Property Registration Agency) documents.

✅ Health Requirements

• Yellow Fever Card: Mandatory. As Tanzania is in a yellow fever region, you must possess a valid Yellow Fever Vaccination Certificate. You will likely need to upload a scan of this card.

✅ Travel InsuranceA mandatory policy covering medical repatriation (min. €30,000). Ensure the policy explicitly covers "Europe" or "Worldwide."

Step-by-Step Application Workflow

The process is entirely digital via the official Albanian government portal.

Step 1: Account Creation

Visit the Albania e-Visa Portal. Register with a valid personal email address.

Step 2: Form Accuracy

Select "Visa Type C". Enter your name exactly as it appears on the bottom (MRZ) lines of your passport.

Step 3: Document Uploads

Upload high-quality PDF scans. Ensure your passport photo has a plain white background and is recent.

Step 4: Payment (CRDB/NMB and Mobile Money)

The government fees for 2026 are:

• Tourist Visa: €60

• Business Visa: €100

• Cards: Visa or Mastercards issued by CRDB, NMB, or Exim Bank are reliable.

• Mobile Money Virtual Cards: If you do not have a bank card, you can use virtual card services (like M-Pesa Mastercard or Tigo Pesa Visa) provided they are enabled for international online payments.

• Currency: The charge will be in Euros. Your provider will handle the TZS to EUR conversion automatically.

Processing Expectations

• Standard Timeline: 9-15 Business Days.

• Express Timeline: 24 Business Hours. ( 3 Business Day )

• Tanzania Specifics: Due to rigorous vetting, expect processing times of 20 to 25 business days.

• Recommendation: Apply at least 6 weeks before your intended flight.

Transit and Border Protocols

Choosing the right connection is essential for Tanzanian passport holders to avoid transit visa issues.

Required Border Documents:

1. Printed e-Visa: Always carry a physical copy.

2. Return Ticket: Confirmed return flight to Tanzania.

3. Accommodation: Valid hotel booking or an invitation from a host.

4. Cash: Carry Euros (€) or USD ($). Tanzanian Shillings cannot be exchanged in Albania.

Critical Transit Warning:

• Via Addis Ababa (Ethiopian Airlines): A highly recommended route. Transit via Addis is generally visa-free for Tanzanians staying in the airport.

• Via Istanbul (Turkish Airlines): Very popular. Airside transit for under 24 hours does not usually require a transit visa.

• Via Doha (Qatar Airways): Seamless and efficient. Check the latest rules if you intend to leave the airport during a long layover.

• Via Europe: Avoid transiting through the Schengen area (e.g., Amsterdam, Zurich) unless you hold a valid Schengen Transit Visa.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Can I submit my bank statement in Swahili?

No. All bank statements and supporting letters must be in English. Fortunately, most Tanzanian banks provide English statements by default.

Can I pay the fee using M-Pesa directly?

No. You cannot use the Lipa Namba or USSD code. You must use the M-Pesa virtual Mastercard details on the visa portal's payment page.

Is the e-Visa valid for entering Kenya?

No. The Albanian e-Visa is valid only for Albania. Your EAC privileges apply only within East Africa.

What if my visa is refused?

The fee is non-refundable. Common reasons for refusal include "Inadequate financial proof" or "Unclear travel purpose." Ensure your bank statement is stamped and your hotel booking is confirmed.