Tanzania has officially eased entry requirements for Nigerian nationals by removing the “referral visa” requirement as of September 25, 2026. The measure aims to boost tourism and trade between these two major economic powers on the African continent.
Tanzania has eased its entry requirements for Nigerian nationals. Since September 25, 2026, they have no longer been subject to the “referral visa,” a procedure that previously required prior authorization from Tanzanian immigration authorities and could extend processing times by several weeks. The decision comes amid efforts to strengthen intra-African trade and cooperation, as Nigeria and Tanzania hold important positions in their respective regions and have economic sectors with the potential to foster greater trade and investment ties.
“Tanzania is, in fact, seeking to reposition itself geopolitically. By strengthening its ties with a West African country, it can attract foreign direct investment. In recent years, the country has already drawn the attention of investors, particularly in East Africa. Nigeria is now one of Africa’s economic giants, notably because of the purchasing power of its business community. Such a rapprochement could enable Tanzania, beyond the economic aspects, to achieve political convergence on certain issues that are of particular concern to the African continent.”
Aboudramane Coulibaly, Political Analyst – Mali
Through this reform, which adds Nigeria to a list of 21 African countries already exempt from visa requirements, Tanzania is joining the broader effort to gradually reduce certain administrative barriers to travel across the continent. For Tanzania and Nigeria, the easing of entry requirements could create greater opportunities for tourism and trade. In fact, Nigerian imports from Tanzania amounted to nearly USD 95 million in 2025.
“Strengthening economic relations between Nigeria and Tanzania will clearly enable these two countries, which are located at opposite ends of the African continent, to expand their trade and business ties.”
Aboudramane Coulibaly, Political Analyst – Mali
For Nigerian businesses, the easing of entry requirements could facilitate business travel, meetings, and the exploration of new markets. In the tourism sector, it could also help make travel for Nigerian visitors simpler and more predictable.
