Tanzania introduces mandatory travel insurance for foreign visitors

The Government of Tanzania has announced a new mandatory travel insurance charge of USD 44 per person for all foreign non-residents entering the country, regardless of the purpose of visit — including tourism.

• The Tanzanian government has introduced a mandatory travel insurance fee of USD 44 for foreign non-residents entering the country.
• The policy, part of the 2025/2026 fiscal budget, provides coverage for medical emergencies, accidents, and baggage issues.
• Tourism operators express concerns that this additional cost may impact visitor numbers and industry competitiveness.

The policy is part of the 2025/2026 fiscal budget presented to the National Assembly in Dodoma by the Minister of Finance. Once purchased, the non-refundable travel insurance policy will remain valid for 62 days (approximately two months).

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Exemptions for EAC and potential SADC nationals

The new travel insurance requirement will not apply to citizens of the East African Community (EAC) member states. Officials have also hinted that nationals from the Southern African Development Community (SADC) might be exempt, though this is yet to be confirmed.

The insurance scheme is likely to be administered by the National Insurance Company (NIC) and its authorised agents.

Purpose of the new policy

According to government sources, the mandatory insurance fee is meant to serve as a safety cushion in case of emergencies during a visitor’s stay. It will cover incidents such as medical emergencies, accidents, baggage loss or damage, and other unexpected events requiring compensation.

“The insurance is meant to ensure visitors have access to assistance when the unexpected happens,” a source from the Finance Ministry explained.

Concerns from the tourism sector

However, tour operators, particularly in Arusha, have raised concerns about the financial burden this new policy could place on visitors. Many tourists, they argue, already possess valid travel insurance from their home countries or private providers.

“Forcing an additional policy purchase may discourage some travellers and affect our industry’s competitiveness,” one tour operator noted.

Digital access and policy purchase unclear

It remains unclear whether Tanzania will establish a dedicated online platform to enable travellers to purchase the insurance policy prior to arrival. Travel and hospitality stakeholders are calling for clarity on implementation mechanisms to avoid confusion or last-minute airport delays.

Mainland follows Zanzibar’s lead

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This development mirrors a similar move implemented by Zanzibar in October 2024, where foreign visitors were also required to purchase travel insurance.

In Zanzibar, the policy charges USD 44 per adult and USD 22 per child aged 3 to 17, with infants (0 to 2 years) exempt from the fee. Insurance must be purchased through the Zanzibar Insurance Corporation (ZIC).

As mainland Tanzania adopts a similar approach, stakeholders await further guidance on implementation and exemptions, especially as the high tourist season approaches.

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