Special Status for Tanzanian Non-Citizens into Law

By Angelista Nashon

The Attorney General has recently presented the Written Laws (Miscellaneous Amendments) Act No. 2 of 2024, which has introduced significant amendments to several legislations. Notably, the amendments to the Immigration Act and the Land Act hold particular importance for the Tanzanian diaspora.

Key Amendments

Immigration Act Amendments

The amendment to the Immigration Act has legalized and defined “SPECIAL STATUS” [Hadhi Maalum] for Tanzania's non-citizen diaspora. The key points include:

• Definition of Special Status: Clear criteria and eligibility.
• Eligibility Criteria: Detailed requirements for granting Special Status.
• Purpose and Duration: Defined uses and validity period.
• Inclusion of Dependents: Terms for dependents of Special Status grantees.
• Conditions and Revocation: Criteria for maintaining or revoking Special Status.

Land Act Amendments

Complementing the Immigration Act amendments, the Land Act now includes special rights concerning land ownership in Tanzania:

• Special Derivative Right: A new category of land ownership.
• Eligibility and Rights: Criteria for obtaining and the rights associated with a Special Derivative Right.

Summary

These amendments empower the Tanzanian non-citizen diaspora by enabling them to:

• Enter, stay, or exit the United Republic.
• Have their dependents enjoy the same rights.
• Occupy and use land in Tanzania.
• All these rights are granted for a period of 10 years, with an option to renew.

Disclaimer

This article is not intended to replace professional advice. No one should rely exclusively on the information provided as a substitute for seeking professional advice. The writers or the Firm are not liable for any use of the information contained herein and do not guarantee the accuracy of its contents from the date of publication to the date of usage. For contact: [email protected]

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