France Visa RequirementsFor Tanzania passport holders
Tanzanian citizens require a Schengen visa to visit France. The standard fee is EUR 80 (approximately USD 87), applied for in advance at the French Embassy or VFS Global center.
Tanzania passport holders require a visa to enter France.
Apply for a Schengen Type C visa at the French Embassy in Dar es Salaam or through VFS Global. Required documents include a valid passport (3 months beyond return), completed application form, travel insurance (EUR 30,000 minimum), hotel bookings, return flight itinerary, bank statements (3 to 6 months), pay slips or business registration, and a cover letter. Processing takes approximately 10 to 15 working days.
France is part of the Schengen Area. Your stay counts toward the 90-day limit within any 180-day period for the entire Schengen zone. Learn more about Schengen rules →
Entry Requirements
Passport Validity
3 months beyond departure from Schengen
Blank Pages
2 blank pages required
Multiple Entry
Single entry only
Work Permitted
No - requires work visa
Current Travel Situation
Tanzania to France: What You Need to Know
France is one of the most visited countries in the world and a top aspirational destination for Tanzanian travelers. The French Embassy in Dar es Salaam processes Schengen visa applications. France also encompasses overseas territories such as Reunion Island and Mayotte, which are popular among East African travelers. A Schengen visa covers mainland France and all Schengen states.
Practical Tips
Paris Charles de Gaulle Airport is the main international hub. The euro is the currency. French is the official language; English is spoken in tourist areas. Validate your Metro/RER ticket before each journey to avoid fines. Pickpocketing is common at tourist sites; use a money belt. Book major attractions (Eiffel Tower, Louvre, Versailles) online well in advance. Carry your health insurance documentation.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do Tanzanian citizens need a visa for France?
Yes. France is a Schengen Area member and Tanzanian passport holders require a Schengen Type C visa. The French Embassy in Dar es Salaam processes applications. The visa also covers travel in all other Schengen states.
Where do Tanzanians apply for a French Schengen visa?
Applications are submitted at the French Embassy in Dar es Salaam or through VFS Global. You can also apply through the official France-Visas portal online for guidance on the document checklist and appointment booking.
How long does French visa processing take for Tanzanians?
The French Embassy typically processes Schengen visa applications within 10 to 15 working days. During peak travel seasons (June to September), processing may take longer. Apply at least 4 to 6 weeks before your intended departure date.
Do I need to speak French to visit France?
You do not need to speak French, though learning basic phrases is appreciated by locals. In Paris and major tourist areas, English is widely understood. In rural areas, French is essential; carry a translation app or phrasebook.