Navigating the immigration requirements for a medical elective can be the most stressful part of your preparation. At Afya Colleges, we simplify this process. To remain compliant with Tanzanian law, students must ensure they apply for the correct category of visa—entering on a standard “Tourist” visa for clinical work is strictly prohibited and can lead to deportation or heavy fines.
Here is exactly what you need to know about the Tanzania Medical Elective Visa.
1. The Student Visa (Class C)
Most international students on a short-term elective (under 3 months) will fall under the Student Visa (Class C) category.
- Eligibility: You must be an active student enrolled in a recognized university in the UK, USA, or elsewhere.
- Cost: The fee typically ranges from $50 to $250 USD depending on your nationality and the duration of your stay.
- Requirements: You will need an official Letter of Invitation from your host hospital and a letter of support from Afya Colleges.
2. Mandatory Documentation
Before you begin your online application through the official Tanzania Immigration portal, ensure you have the following digital copies ready:
- Passport Bio-data Page: Must be valid for at least 6 months beyond your departure date.
- University Letter: An official letter from your Dean confirming you are a student on an elective.
- Introduction Letter: Provided by us at Afya Colleges.
- Passport-sized Photo: A recent digital photo with a blue or white background.
- CV/Resume: Required for clinical registrations.
3. Professional Registration (The “Permit”)
In addition to your entry visa, certain hospitals and departments require a temporary registration with the Medical Council of Tanganyika (MCT) or the Zanzibar Medical Council.
- UK Students: This is often a requirement for your MDU/MPS indemnity insurance to remain valid. (See: uk hospital placements)
- US Students: Necessary for formal credit recognition in M3/M4 rotations. (See: us-medical-student-rotations)
4. Logistics & Timing
We recommend starting your visa application at least 8 to 12 weeks before your flight.
- Arrival: Once approved, your visa is usually sent via email as a “Visa Grant Notice.” You must print this and present it at the airport (JRO or DAR).
- Budgeting: Don’t forget to include these fees in your total trip cost. Visit our tanzania elective costs page for a full financial breakdown.
Strategic Internal Links
- The Main Hub: Get a full overview of the program at medical-elective-tanzania.
- Location Guides: Decide whether you’ll be applying for a mainland or island permit in /arusha-vs-dar-hospital or /nursing-elective-zanzibar.
- Clinical Focus: Read about the wards you’ll be entering at tropical-medicine-training.
- Past Experiences: See how other students found the immigration process in student-reviews-tanzania.
Let Afya Colleges Handle the Paperwork
When you book your elective through Afya Colleges, we provide the specific invitation letters and local sponsorship required by the Tanzanian government. We make sure you are legal, safe, and ready to walk onto the wards from day one.