Immigration Legal Services for Executives & Investors in Tanzania

Tanzania Immigration Law for Foreign Nationals

Tanzania's immigration framework is governed by the Immigration Act (Cap. 54) and administered by the Immigration Department. The system distinguishes between several categories of permits for foreign nationals who wish to live and work in Tanzania - each with different requirements, duration, and renewal procedures.

With Tanzania's growing economy attracting increasing numbers of multinational businesses and high-net-worth investors, navigating the immigration system efficiently is critical to getting operations off the ground without delay.

Types of Permits & Visas We Handle

Class G - Investor Permit

The Class G permit is designed for foreign investors who have established or are establishing a business in Tanzania. It requires evidence of investment (typically TIC registration), a minimum capital commitment, and proof of business activity. A Class G permit entitles the holder to reside and work in Tanzania in connection with their investment. Arik Law prepares the complete application package and liaises with the Immigration Department for approval.

Class B - Employment Permit

The Class B permit is for foreign nationals employed by a Tanzanian company. The employer must demonstrate that the position cannot be filled by a qualified Tanzanian national, and the permit is tied to the specific employer and role. We advise both employers and employees on the requirements, prepare all necessary documentation, and manage renewals.

Class C - Self-Employed Permit

For professionals who wish to practice independently in Tanzania - including doctors, engineers, lawyers (where permitted), and other specialists - the Class C permit allows self-employment subject to registration with the relevant professional body.

Dependent Passes

Spouses and dependent children of permit holders may apply for dependent passes, allowing them to reside in Tanzania. We manage dependent pass applications alongside the primary permit to ensure family members can join without delay.

Long-Term Residence Permits

After several years of lawful residence in Tanzania, foreign nationals may be eligible to apply for a long-term residence permit or permanent residence. Arik Law advises on eligibility criteria and manages the application process.

Special Passes (Short-Term)

For executives or specialists who need to work in Tanzania for a short period without a full work permit, a Special Pass can be issued for up to three months. We manage Special Pass applications for clients whose business needs require rapid deployment of personnel.

Visa Applications & Entry Advisory

Tanzania offers visa-on-arrival for most nationalities, but certain nationalities require advance visas. We advise on the correct entry visa category for your personnel and manage advance visa applications where required.

Work Permit Compliance for Employers

Tanzania requires companies to demonstrate compliance with local employment quotas - specifically, limits on the proportion of foreign employees relative to total workforce size. Failure to comply can result in fines and refusal of permit renewals. Arik Law advises on workforce planning to maintain compliance while meeting operational needs.

Why Choose Arik Law for Immigration

• Direct relationships with the Immigration Department and Labour Office
• Experience with executive and investor-category permits across all sectors
• Rapid response and clear timelines from initial consultation to permit issuance
• Coordination with HR and finance teams of multinational employers
• Ongoing renewals and compliance management