How to Apply for the Tanzania and Zanzibar Retirement Visa

Introduction

Tanzania is increasingly becoming a popular destination for people who want to spend their retirement under the African sun. With its impressive nature, friendly communities and modern residential complex Fumba Town, the country offers a unique opportunity to live in a relaxed and safe way. In this guide, we will show you step by step how to apply for the so-called "Rentista visa" for Tanzania.

Why Tanzania for retirement?

• Warm climate all year round

• Low cost of living

• High quality of life in a natural environment

• Modern living options such as Fumba Town

• Hospitable company

What is the Rentista visa?

The "Resident Permit Class C – Retirement" is a residence permit especially for pensioners who want to spend their retirement in Tanzania. It is usually valid for 12 months and can be renewed annually.

Requirements:

• Proof of pension income (You must be retired – e.g. statutory pension, private pension benefits or other regular retirement income)

• Proof of financial independence (You must prove that you can finance yourself (and, if applicable, relatives) during your stay.)

• Proof of permanent residence in Tanzania (you must present a lease agreement or have purchased a property, in the case of the retiree visa, it may have cost less than $100,000 and must not have been paid in full)

Required documents

1. Valid passport (at least 6 months)

2. Passport photos

3. Completed forms (TIF1 & Data Sheet)

4. Pension certificate (Pension certificate + retirement letter from your employer, if you are a company owner yourself, you can also create this letter yourself)

5. Bank statements as proof of financial resources

6. Rental agreement or proof of ownership

7. Proof of health insurance

8. Police clearance certificate

9. Health certificate from a recognised doctor (Health certificate from a state-approved hospital)

How to apply for the visa – step by step

1. Gather all the documents you need

2. Fill out and sign forms

3. Submit your application to the Tanzanian embassy or on site (We support you on site with our lawyer Clara)

4. Pay application fee (approx. 500 USD)

5. Wait for processing (approx. 4–8 weeks)

6. In case of positive feedback: Entry into Tanzania

7. Biometric registration at the Immigration Office

8. Receipt of the residence permit

Our support – Fumba Town Agency will be happy to help you with the whole process.

We accompany you throughout the entire process:

• Personal advice from our team and our lawyer Clara (cost $1,400 for the whole process)

• Help with filling out the applications

• Support in obtaining evidence

• Accompaniment to visits to the authorities

• Organization of your accommodation in Fumba Town

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

• Do I need health insurance? Yes, this is mandatory.

• Can I extend the visa? Yes, with the same evidence.

• How long does it take to apply? Usually 4 to 8 weeks.

• Can I work with the visa? No, it's only for retirement.