If Tanzania or Zanzibar is on your travel list, get ready for an extra step before you pack your bags. Starting October 1, 2026, every foreign visitor must hold a specific national insurance policy, purchased before they arrive. The rule applies whether you're flying into Dar es Salaam, hopping on a ferry to Stone Town, or crossing overland from Kenya.
The new requirement comes from section 134A of Tanzania's Insurance Act. Travelers must buy coverage through the National Insurance Corporation, or the Zanzibar Insurance Corporation if entering via the islands. The mandatory policy costs $44 per adult and $22 per child, with kids under three covered free. Solo travelers, couples, families, and groups all have options, and groups of ten or more get a 10% discount. The policy stays valid for 92 days and covers multiple entries, which is handy if you're island-hopping or planning a longer overland route.
What the Insurance Covers
This isn't just a formality. The policy is designed to cover emergency medical assistance, accidents, repatriation, and personal liability. It also includes baggage delays and theft, which could be a lifesaver if your luggage goes astray on a connecting flight. Tanzanian officials say the coverage is meant to protect tourists in unexpected situations, so you won't be left footing a hefty hospital bill or scrambling for a replacement suitcase.
If you already have travel insurance from your home country, that's great, but it won't get you through immigration. You must hold the Tanzanian or Zanzibari policy regardless of your existing coverage. The only exceptions are transit passengers who don't clear customs, diplomatic passport holders, and those with certain work or residence permits. Citizens of East African Community member states, like Kenya, Uganda, and Rwanda, are also exempt.
Good News for Safari and Beach Combo Trips
Many travelers pair a mainland safari with a Zanzibar beach finale. The insurance companies have confirmed you don't need to buy two separate policies. Either the Tanzanian or Zanzibari policy is valid for travel between the mainland and the islands, so one purchase covers both legs of your journey. That's a relief for anyone planning a classic itinerary that includes the Serengeti and Nungwi.
The move is expected to affect around 2.3 million visitors each year. It adds a new cost at a time when international travel prices are already volatile, especially with ongoing fuel crises and shipping disruptions. But Tanzania isn't alone in this approach. Several other destinations, including Kenya, Qatar, and various EU Schengen nations, already require similar insurance. Thailand is also considering making travel insurance mandatory for all visitors, a move that could reshape how travelers budget for Southeast Asia trips.
For those who prefer to keep their travel costs predictable, this is another reminder to factor in destination-specific fees. While some countries are simplifying entry with digital systems, others are adding layers of bureaucracy. If you're planning a European trip, you might want to check how new border checks could affect your plans, especially if you're used to breezing through passport control.
The insurance requirement is a clear signal that Tanzania and Zanzibar are serious about managing tourist safety and reducing unpaid medical costs. It's a small price to pay for peace of mind, especially if you're heading into remote safari areas where emergency evacuation could be costly. Just make sure you buy the policy before you fly, and keep the proof handy when you land.
Travelers who love spontaneous trips might find this rule a bit of a hassle, but it's a straightforward process. You can apply online through the respective insurance corporations, and the policy is issued quickly. For those who prefer to plan every detail, this is just another checkbox on the pre-departure list. And if you're wondering about other destinations with similar requirements, it's worth checking the latest advice before you book.
