
Chinese Visa Policy and Requirements for Citizens of Tanzania
1. Visa Types and Exemption Policies
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Diplomatic and Service Passport Holders:
- Holders of valid diplomatic/service passports from Tanzania enjoy a 30-day visa-free stay in China.
- For stays exceeding 30 days or activities like work/study, apply for the corresponding visa in advance.
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Ordinary Passport Holders:
- Tanzanian citizens with ordinary passports must obtain a Chinese visa before entry.
- On-Arrival Visa (落地签): Available at designated ports (e.g., Dar es Salaam Airport, Zanzibar Airport) for tourism purposes only. Valid for a single entry with a 30-day stay (cost: USD 50).
2. Visa Application Requirements
Tourist Visa (L Visa)
- Validity: Typically 90 days (single/multiple entries).
- Duration of Stay: Up to 30 days (non-extendable).
- Required Documents:
- Passport valid for at least 6 months.
- Completed visa application form.
- 2 recent passport-sized photos (3.5cm×4.5cm, white background).
- Round-trip flight tickets and hotel reservations.
- Proof of financial capacity (e.g., bank statements).
- Invitation letter (if visiting family/friends, with relationship proof).
Business Visa (M Visa)
- Validity: Typically 90 days (single/multiple entries).
- Duration of Stay: Up to 30 days (extendable in some cases).
- Required Documents:
- Basic documents as above.
- Invitation letter from a Chinese company (specifying purpose, itinerary, and cost responsibility).
- Copy of the Chinese partner’s business license.
Work Visa (Z Visa)
- Validity: Matches the work contract (usually 1 year).
- Duration of Stay: Aligns with validity; requires a work permit.
- Required Documents:
- Basic documents as above.
- Employer’s invitation letter and work permit (Z-visa notification).
- Health certificate (issued by a designated Chinese authority).
Student Visa (X Visa)
- Purpose: Study in China.
- Types:
- X1 Visa: Long-term study (>180 days).
- X2 Visa: Short-term study (≤180 days).
- Required Documents:
- Basic documents as above.
- Admission letter from a Chinese institution and JW202/JW201 form.
Transit Visa (G Visa)
- Duration of Stay:
- 24-hour visa-free transit if not leave the airport.
- Apply for G Visa if staying >24 hours or leaving the airport.
- Required Documents:
- Basic documents as above.
- Flight itinerary to the third country.
3. Application Process
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Online Application (Recommended):
- Apply through the Tanzanian Immigration e-Visa Portal for electronic visas (e-visas) to reduce airport wait times.
- Submit documents and pay fees online.
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On-Arrival Visa:
- Apply at designated ports with valid passport, flight itinerary, and visa fee (USD 50).
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Chinese Embassy/Consulate:
- Submit applications in person or via designated agencies.
4. Visa Fees
- Tourist Visa (L Visa):
- Single entry: ~USD 120 (online/e-visa).
- On-arrival: USD 50.
- Business Visa (M Visa): ~USD 145 (online).
- Other visas: Fees vary; check with the embassy.
5. Important Notes
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Health Requirements:
- As of 2023, no COVID-19 testing or vaccination certificates are required, but random antigen tests may be conducted.
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Customs Regulations:
- Declare cash exceeding USD 5,000 or equivalent.
- Prohibited items: Drugs, ivory, pornography, etc.
- Musical instruments, cameras, or equipment require customs declaration.
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Visa Extensions:
- Extensions must be applied for at the Tanzanian Immigration Bureau before expiry.
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Communication:
- Be prepared to answer basic questions in English (e.g., purpose of visit, accommodation details).
Official Resources: