Tanzania has announced a new mandatory travel insurance policy for all foreign visitors, set to take effect in the 2025/2026 fiscal year.
Under the new regulation, every international traveller entering the country will be required to pay a non-refundable insurance fee of US$44 (€38), aimed at enhancing tourist protection and streamlining medical and travel assistance.
According to Business Insider Africa, the policy is designed to cover a range of potential incidents, including medical emergencies, accidents, baggage loss, and other unforeseen travel disruptions. The fee will be administered by the state-owned National Insurance Company (NIC) and its authorised agents.
Citizens of the East African Community (EAC) will be exempt from this mandatory insurance, while exemptions for members of the Southern African Development Community (SADC) are under consideration but not yet confirmed.
The new scheme mirrors Zanzibar’s move in October 2024, where a similar mandatory travel insurance system was introduced. In Zanzibar, adults are charged $44 (€38), while children aged 3-17 pay $22 (€19). Insurance coverage in Zanzibar is managed exclusively through the Zanzibar Insurance Corporation.
Authorities argue that the introduction of mandatory travel insurance strengthens Tanzania’s tourism industry by ensuring visitors have access to immediate assistance in case of emergencies, while also providing a safety net that reduces the financial burden on public healthcare facilities. Industry observers, however, are watching closely to assess how the additional fee may impact tourist numbers, particularly as global travel costs continue to rise.
With Tanzania’s growing reputation as a premier safari and beach destination, the government aims to balance tourist safety with sustainable industry growth. The new travel insurance requirement represents another step toward formalising standards and strengthening confidence in Tanzania’s tourism sector.
Source: Further Africa
