Tanzanian Visa Photo Tool

Tanzania is a popular African destination known for its world-famous national parks and diverse cultures. But to enjoy your trip, you’ll first need to apply for a tourist visa. Get started with your application by securing a government-compliant photo—all from the comfort of your home! Read on to find a comprehensive guide on all official requirements.

Technical specifications:

Before taking your visa photo, familiarize yourself with all the detailed technical requirements your biometric photo must comply with.

Additional requirements:

Adhering to the technical requirements for your visa photo is vital. However, it’s not the only thing you must pay attention to. Study these additional guidelines for Tanzanian visa photos that must be followed in order to comply with all government regulations:

• Head position: Look directly into the camera, ensuring your head is centered
• Expression: Keep a neutral facial expression, with your eyes open and mouth closed
• Attire: Wear your regular clothes, avoiding light colors that could blend with the background. Uniforms of any kind are forbidden.
• Headgear: Don’t wear hats or hairbands. Head coverings are acceptably only if worn for religious or medical purposes
• Glasses: You’re allowed to wear prescription glasses. However, make sure the lenses don’t produce any glare and your eyes are fully visible
• Hair: Keep your hair away from the face
• Accessories: Wearing subtle jewelry is acceptable. However, any accessories blocking your face or taking attention away from it are forbidden (e.g., sunglasses or scarves)
• Makeup: Opt for natural makeup that doesn’t change your facial features. Heavy makeup (e.g., contouring) isn’t allowed

Tanzanian visa photos for newborns, babies, and children

The Tanzanian visa photo requirements mentioned in this guide apply to all applicants, regardless of age. However, capturing a compliant visa photo of newborns or babies can be challenging. So, to ensure your child’s photo turns out acceptable, follow the tips mentioned below.

1. If your child can’t stand in front of a wall, place your baby on a white or off-white blanket or sheet and snap the photo from above. 
2. For newborns, you’re allowed to take a photo of them sitting in a baby carrier or car seat. This way, you’ll be sure they remain seated until the photoshoot is finished.

Tips on taking your own photos for a Tanzanian visa

Taking biometric pictures for a visa application is now possible without stepping outside—all you need is your phone! If you decide to get your Tanzanian visa photo from home, all you need to do is ensure the image adheres to the technical and additional requirements we discussed.

Here are several tips on how to capture a compliant visa photo:

• Find the right spot. 

Ideally, find a plain, light-colored wall (white or off-white) with no objects in sight. To ensure proper lighting, it’s best you take a photo in daylight, preferably near a window.

• Ready yourself.

Wear appropriate clothes, makeup, and/or accessories following official guidelines. 

• Get in the right position.

Position yourself approximately 4 feet away from the camera (or 1.5 meters) and 1.5 feet (50 cm) away from the wall. This way, your face will have correct proportions, and no shadows in the background will be present.

• Snap a photo.

If you can, ask a family member or friend to take a picture. Alternatively, set a timer on your phone to have enough time to get in the position.