Starting 1 November 2025, Tanzania introduces a new VI-Tax (Passenger Facilitation Fee) of US $45 for one-way and US $90 for return international flights. The levy—refundable on cancellations—funds installation of API and electronic border control systems, with exemptions for infants under two, airline crew, and involuntarily rerouted travellers
How much is the VI Tax?
- USD 45 for a one-way international journey
- USD 90 for a return international journey
This fee will be collected when you buy your ticket and will appear as a separate line item.
Why is this tax being introduced?
The VI Tax will help fund the installation of Advanced Passenger Information (API) and Passenger Name Record (PNR) systems. These tools are widely used in global air travel to make journeys more secure and efficient:
- API (Advanced Passenger Information) collects basic details like your full name, date of birth, nationality, and passport number. Airlines share this with border authorities before your flight departs.
- PNR (Passenger Name Record) is a digital record of your trip. It contains your travel dates, routes, ticketing details, and even preferences such as meal requests.
Together, these systems make it easier for authorities to process passengers, improve safety, and speed up border checks.
Who is exempt from the VI Tax?
- Infants under 2 years old
- Airline crew on duty
- Passengers rerouted due to weather or technical issues
Refunds
If your trip is cancelled or your ticket is unused, the VI Tax is fully refundable.
What this means for travelers
If you’re booking flights that involve Tanzania after 1 November 2025, remember to factor in this new fee as part of your travel budget.
FAQ: Tanzania VI Tax & Passenger Data Systems
1. What are API and PNR in air travel?
- API (Advanced Passenger Information) is basic identity data (like your name, nationality, and passport details) collected by airlines and shared securely with border authorities.
- PNR (Passenger Name Record) comprises your full travel itinerary, ticket info, contact details, and special requests—capturing your trip in one digital record.
2. Why does Tanzania introduce API and PNR systems?
These systems improve border security, help manage travel risks, and allow faster passenger processing at airports.
3. How is the VI Tax connected to API and PNR?
The money collected from the VI Tax will support the setup and operation of these systems in Tanzania.
4. Is my personal data in API/PNR safe?
Yes. These systems follow international standards to protect passenger privacy, although data security and storage are closely monitored by authorities.
5. Who pays the VI Tax, and can it be refunded?
Most international travelers will pay it—USD 45 one-way or USD 90 return. It’s fully refundable if your trip is canceled or the ticket goes unused.
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