Navigating the Process of Obtaining a Work Permit in Tanzania: A Guide for Investors

Introduction

Investing in Tanzania is an attractive opportunity for foreign investors, given the country's steady economic growth and strategic location in East Africa. However, for non-citizens seeking to work or establish businesses in Tanzania, obtaining a Work Permit and Residence Permit is a critical step. This guide provides a comprehensive overview of the application process, required documents, fees, and important considerations for investors.

Application Process for Work and Residence Permits

The application process for both Work and Residence Permits in Tanzania is conducted online through the official websites of the Prime Minister's Office and the Immigration Department. Below is the step-by-step process:

1. Registration:

   • Visit the official websites (www.kazi.go.tz or www.immigration.go.tz).

   • Register using an existing email or create a new one.

2. Account Creation:

   • Create an account by providing your name and the details of the company or institution seeking to employ you.

   • Set up a password for future logins and application follow-ups.

3. Filling the Application Form:

   • Log into the system and complete the online Work/Residence Permit Application Form.

   • Submit the form electronically.

4. Document Preparation:

   • Scan and prepare certified copies of all required documents to be attached/uploaded with the application form.

5. Submission:

   • Submit the completed application form and await further instructions via the online system.

Required Documents

Investors and other applicants must prepare specific documents based on the class of Work Permit being applied for. Below is a table outlining the required documents:

SN	Required Documents	Work Permit Class
1	Justification Letter	All Classes
2	One recent passport-size photograph with a blue background	All Classes
3	Copy of a valid passport (validity should be at least six months before expiry)	All Classes
4	Scanned copies of original academic/professional certificates	B, C, and E
5	Translated documents and scanned copies of certificates before translation	B, C, D, and E
6	Detailed Curriculum Vitae/Resume	B, C, D, and E
7	Current proof of shares from BRELA Online Search System or extract from register	Class A
8	Proof of transfer or sale of shares (where applicable), including tax clearance certificate	Class A
9	Employment/Engagement Contract	B, C, D, and E
10	Detailed Job Description	B, C, D, and E
11	Sectoral approvals/permits/registrations (where applicable) e.g., TMDA, TBS, ERB, etc.	All Classes
12	Certificate of Charitable Organization or any related document	Class D
13	Original Work Permit (for renewals and change of Work Permit Class)	All Classes
14	Industrial/Business/Operating License	All Classes
15	TIC/EPZA Certificate (where applicable)	A, B, and C
16	Lease Agreement/Certificate of Occupancy/Title Deed	Class A
17	Proof of registration with NSSF and WCF	All Classes
18	Certificate of Tax Identification Number (TIN)	All Classes
19	Certificate of Value Added Tax	All Classes
20	Current Tax Clearance Certificate	All Classes
21	Certificate of Incorporation/Compliance/Registration of Companies, NGOs, etc.	All Classes
22	Memorandum and Articles of Association or Constitution of the Organization	All Classes
23	Recommendation letter from relevant Government Authority (for Companies, NGOs, etc. executing Government Projects/Programs)	Class B, C, and E
24	Introduction letter authorizing an employee of the Organization to apply and follow up on Work Permit application	All Classes

For specific requirements regarding Residence Permits, consult the guidelines available at www.immigration.go.tz.

Classes of Work Permit and Associated Fees

Different classes of Work Permits cater to various categories of non-citizens, each with specific fees and validity periods. The table below provides details:

Work Permit Class	Non-Citizens Concerned	Fee (USD)	Maximum Time of Working in Tanzania
A	Investors or self-employed individuals	1,000	Beyond 10 years/as long as the business exists
B	Non-citizens in possession of prescribed professions	500	5 years
C	Non-citizens in possession of other professions	1,000	5 years
D	Non-citizens employed or engaged in religious/charitable activities	500	5 years
E	Refugees	Gratis	5 years

Payment Process

Upon submission of the Work Permit application, an online notification and Bill/Control number will be generated. The payment process is as follows:

1. Payment Method:

   • Deposit the Work Permit fee directly into the Prime Minister's Office USD bank account using the provided control number.

   • Payments can also be made online using VISA/MasterCard.

2. Processing:

   • Once payment is made, the system forwards the application to the Labour Commissioner and subsequently to the Commissioner General of Immigration for processing the Residence Permit.

3. Enrolment and Issuance:

   • After Residence Permit payment, report to the nearest Immigration Office for fingerprint and photo capture.

   • An e-Permit Smart Card, containing details of both the Work and Residence Permits, will be issued and can be collected at Immigration Offices.

Important Considerations for Investors

1. Application Channels: Ensure applications are made through the official websites (epemit.kazi.go.tz or www.immigration.go.tz).

2. Permit Classification: Choose the correct class of Work and Residence Permit based on your intended activity.

3. Guidelines: Carefully read the guidelines before beginning the application process to avoid errors.

4. Payment: All payments are non-refundable and non-transferable.

Conclusion

Securing a Work Permit and Residence Permit is a crucial step for any investor planning to establish or work in Tanzania. By adhering to the outlined procedures and ensuring all required documents are prepared, investors can streamline the application process and focus on growing their businesses in one of Africa’s most promising markets.