The Tanzanian government has announced the implementation of mandatory inbound travel insurance for foreign visitors entering Mainland Tanzania, effective October 1, 2026.
The Ministry of Finance said the new requirement follows the publication of the Inbound Travel Insurance Regulations for Foreign Visitors Entering Mainland Tanzania, under Government Notice (GN) No. 256 of 2026, dated September 4, 2026. The regulations were issued under Section 134A of the Insurance Act, Cap. 394, as amended through the Finance Act 2025.
Under the new framework, the National Insurance Corporation (NIC) has been designated as the inbound travel insurance provider for visitors entering through Mainland Tanzania, while the Zanzibar Insurance Corporation (ZIC) will provide the insurance for foreign visitors entering through Zanzibar. Foreign visitors arriving through Mainland Tanzania will therefore be required to obtain their travel insurance from NIC, while those entering through Zanzibar must obtain the corresponding cover from ZIC.
The Ministry said the insurance will provide coverage against medical emergencies and will be valid for a period of up to 92 days, at a premium of US$44 per visitor. The government has advised international travellers to make the necessary arrangements and obtain the required insurance before travelling to Tanzania to facilitate entry procedures and avoid potential delays or inconvenience upon arrival.
In the event of an emergency within the United Republic of Tanzania, visitors will receive services from the insurance provider from which their inbound travel insurance was obtained, subject to the terms and conditions of the policy. The Ministry of Finance said detailed information on purchase procedures, insurance coverage, payment methods and verification systems will be made available through the designated insurance platforms for Mainland Tanzania and Zanzibar. The new requirement adds another element for international visitors and tourism stakeholders to consider when planning travel to Tanzania, one of East Africa’s major tourism destinations. The public notice was issued by Dr Natu El-Maamry Mwamba, Permanent Secretary and Paymaster General, Ministry of Finance, Tanzania.
