Planning a trip to Tanzania? Whether you are coming for a safari, climbing Mount Kilimanjaro, exploring the Usambara Mountains or relaxing on the beaches of Zanzibar, there is a new entry requirement you should know about before travelling.
Since 1 October 2026, mandatory inbound travel insurance has been required for most foreign visitors entering Mainland Tanzania. Zanzibar has its own mandatory insurance scheme, introduced in October 2024.
Here is everything you need to know: who needs the insurance, how much it costs, where to buy it and what to do if your itinerary includes both Mainland Tanzania and Zanzibar.
What is Tanzania’s new mandatory travel insurance?
The Tanzanian government has introduced mandatory inbound travel insurance for foreign visitors entering the country. The requirement is intended to provide assistance in the event of medical emergencies and other covered incidents during a visitor’s stay.
The Mainland Tanzania scheme is administered by the National Insurance Corporation (NIC), while Zanzibar’s scheme is administered by the Zanzibar Insurance Corporation (ZIC).
Important: This is a government entry requirement, separate from your usual travel insurance. Even if you already have comprehensive travel insurance from your home country, you should check whether you also need the mandatory Tanzanian policy.
Official information:
Who needs to buy the insurance?
Most foreign visitors entering Tanzania for tourism or other short-term visits need the applicable mandatory insurance.
The requirement applies to visitors arriving through airports, seaports and land borders.
On Mainland Tanzania, NIC states that qualifying residents of East African Community (EAC) and Southern African Development Community (SADC) partner states are exempt from the requirement.
Zanzibar has a separate insurance scheme, so do not assume that an exemption applicable on the mainland automatically applies to Zanzibar. Residents and travellers with special immigration status should check their eligibility directly with the relevant insurer.
If you are visiting Tanzania on holiday, the safest approach is to check the official insurance portal before departure.
How much does mandatory travel insurance cost?
The published premium for the Mainland Tanzania policy is USD 44 per visitor, payable in the Tanzanian shilling equivalent where applicable.
The policy is valid for up to 92 days, according to the dates and conditions stated on the insurance certificate.
Zanzibar operates its own scheme. Check the official ZIC website for the applicable price and terms before purchasing.
Where can you buy the insurance?
You should purchase the policy that corresponds to your first point of entry into Tanzania.
1. If you enter Mainland Tanzania first
For example, if your international flight arrives in Dar es Salaam or Kilimanjaro International Airport, or you enter through a mainland land border, use the official NIC portal:
Buy Mainland Tanzania travel insurance – NIC
2. If you enter Zanzibar first
If Zanzibar is your first point of entry into Tanzania, use the official ZIC portal:
Buy Zanzibar travel insurance – ZIC
Use the official websites rather than relying on third-party sellers or unofficial links.
When should you buy it?
We recommend arranging the insurance before travelling to Tanzania.
The authorities advise visitors to obtain the required cover in advance to help avoid unnecessary delays during entry procedures. NIC also states that policies can be purchased at entry points on arrival, but buying online beforehand is the more convenient option.
You will generally need your passport details, travel dates, purpose of visit and basic personal information.
After purchasing the policy, keep the insurance certificate and its QR code accessible on your phone. It is also sensible to save an offline copy or print it in case you cannot access the internet on arrival.
What does the insurance cover?
The mandatory policy is intended to provide assistance for covered emergencies. Depending on the policy and its terms, benefits may include:
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Emergency medical treatment.
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Emergency medical evacuation.
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Repatriation.
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Loss of luggage and other specified travel-related risks.
Always read the policy wording carefully. The mandatory insurance should not be assumed to cover every medical expense, activity or travel risk.
We strongly recommend keeping your own comprehensive travel insurance as well, particularly if you are planning a safari, hiking, mountain climbing or other adventure activities. Check that your private policy covers the activities you intend to undertake and understand its medical-expense limits and exclusions.
What if your trip includes both Mainland Tanzania and Zanzibar?
This is particularly important for travellers combining a mainland safari or mountain adventure with a beach holiday.
You do not normally need to buy two mandatory policies for the same journey simply because you visit both Mainland Tanzania and Zanzibar.
The applicable policy is determined by your first point of entry into Tanzania:
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Mainland Tanzania first: obtain the NIC policy.
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Zanzibar first: obtain the ZIC policy.
According to the authorities’ clarification, a valid policy obtained for the first point of entry can remain applicable when travelling between the mainland and Zanzibar, subject to its terms and validity.
Keep your certificate and QR code with you throughout the trip.
Frequently asked questions
Is the insurance required if I already have travel insurance?
Yes, in general. Your private travel insurance does not automatically replace the mandatory inbound policy. Check whether a specific exemption applies to you.
Can I buy the insurance when I arrive?
NIC states that the mainland policy can be purchased online or at entry points. However, buying it before departure is recommended to help avoid delays. Check the relevant portal for the latest arrangements.
How long is the policy valid?
The published validity is up to 92 days, subject to the dates on your certificate. If your visit is longer, contact the relevant insurer about an extension or additional cover before your existing policy expires.
Do I need separate insurance for a safari and Zanzibar?
Not normally for the mandatory inbound scheme, provided you obtain the correct policy for your first point of entry and it remains valid. Your private insurance may have different conditions for safaris and adventure activities.
Is this the same as a Tanzanian visa?
No. Travel insurance and a visa are separate requirements. Check the official Tanzanian immigration website for the visa rules applicable to your nationality.
Official links and further information
For the most up-to-date details, including payment procedures, coverage, eligibility and policy conditions, consult the official sources:
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Mainland Tanzania: National Insurance Corporation – Inbound Travel Insurance
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Zanzibar: Zanzibar Insurance Corporation – Inbound Travel Insurance
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Tanzania government announcement: Ministry of Finance public notice hosted by the Embassy of Tanzania in Rome
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Visa information: Tanzania Immigration Services
Travel requirements can change, so always verify the latest official information before departure.
Discover Tanzania with Uvi House
At Uvi House, in the beautiful Usambara Mountains, we help travellers discover a different side of Tanzania: mountain landscapes, local culture, community-led experiences and meaningful encounters away from the usual tourist routes.
Whether you are planning a safari, a mountain escape or a longer journey through Tanzania, preparing your travel documents and insurance in advance will help you start your adventure with greater peace of mind.
We look forward to welcoming you to the Usambara Mountains!
If you want to learn more how to get ready for your trip in Tanzania
