The Tanzanian government has entered diplomatic talks with the United States after receiving a formal warning that its citizens may soon face new restrictions when applying for U.S. visas. The warning, reportedly issued as part of a broader immigration crackdown, lists Tanzania among 36 countries under review for potential travel limitations if certain immigration and security standards are not met within 60 days.
According to government spokesperson and Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Information, Culture, Arts and Sports, Mr. Gerson Msigwa, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs is leading consultations with U.S. officials. The focus of the discussions includes immigration procedures, consular cooperation, and documentation concerns.
“The Government of Tanzania, through the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, has already begun consultations with our counterparts in the United States to identify areas needing attention to prevent Tanzania from being among countries whose citizens may be restricted from entering the U.S.,” said Mr. Msigwa in a public statement.
Although the specific reasons for the U.S. warning were not disclosed in detail, previous instances of such restrictions have typically involved issues like passport security, lack of cooperation in repatriating citizens ordered to leave the U.S., and visa overstays.
According to internal diplomatic correspondence seen by multiple media outlets, the United States is reviewing countries based on their ability to provide secure identity documentation, compliance in accepting deportees, and rates of visa overstays. The warning also reportedly includes concerns about individuals suspected of engaging in terrorism or anti-American activities, although not all issues apply to every listed country.
The inclusion of Tanzania on the list has sparked concern among citizens and members of the diaspora. Many worry about the possible effects on student visas, business travel, and family visits. In an online discussion on the Reddit forum r/tanzania, one user captured the mood by writing: “The US claims most Tanzanians overstay their visa and they are threatening to ban Tanzanians unless the Government gives them information about all Tanzanian passport holders.”
That quote, posted by Reddit user Muungwana on June 17, reflects growing anxiety among young professionals, students, and families with close ties to the U.S.
Visa issuance statistics reinforce the importance of this development. In 2023, the United States granted a total of 332 immigrant visas and 8,170 non-immigrant visas to Tanzanian nationals. While those numbers are modest, they represent vital pathways for Tanzanians studying abroad, visiting family, or pursuing business opportunities. In comparison, Kenya received 2,411 immigrant visas and over 28,000 non-immigrant visas in the same period.
U.S. officials have not confirmed which specific countries will face restrictions or when any measures would take effect. A senior official from the U.S. State Department declined to comment on individual nations but emphasized the department’s focus on national security and updated vetting procedures.
This latest immigration warning comes just weeks after President Donald Trump signed a new proclamation expanding existing travel restrictions. The directive, part of his administration’s second-term immigration policy, includes measures aimed at reducing visa overstays and limiting new student and work visas from countries deemed non-compliant with U.S. standards.
While no changes have yet been made to Tanzania’s visa eligibility, travel experts are advising Tanzanian citizens to ensure all travel documents are current and to expect potential delays or stricter screening procedures in the coming months. Students planning to begin classes in the U.S. this fall may be especially affected, as may Tanzanians hoping to travel during the December holiday season.
The Tanzanian government has called for calm and pledged to update the public as talks progress. “We are committed to protecting the rights and freedoms of Tanzanian citizens abroad while ensuring cooperation on matters of global security,” said Mr. Msigwa.
Civil society groups and travel sector stakeholders are watching the situation closely, noting that any restrictions could impact not only individuals but also tourism, education, and bilateral relations between the two countries.
For now, the message from officials and experts alike is to stay informed, prepare documentation carefully, and follow any new guidance issued by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs or the U.S. Embassy in Dar es Salaam.
