What changed: Tanzania has introduced mandatory inbound travel insurance for foreign visitors entering the mainland by air, sea or land. The Insurance (Inbound Travel Insurance) Regulations, published in Government Notice No. 256 of 4 September 2026, set a premium of the Tanzanian shilling equivalent of USD 44, for cover lasting up to 92 days with multiple entries. Tour operators report a start date of 1 October 2026. Reports say visitors without a policy can be denied entry.
Who it affects
- Most foreign visitors to mainland Tanzania, including safari and Kilimanjaro travellers arriving from the UK, EU, US and elsewhere in Africa outside the exempt group.
- Exempt: residents of East African Community and SADC partner states, which covers travellers living in South Africa and Zimbabwe. Reported exemptions also include diplomats, transit passengers and some work or residence permit holders. Carry proof of residence in case an officer asks.
- Zanzibar has its own insurance scheme, and reports differ on how it interacts with the mainland policy. The regulations are described as covering the mainland only.
What the policy covers
Reported minimum cover is emergency medical treatment, emergency medical evacuation, repatriation and loss of baggage. It is a basic government product, so it is not a replacement for your own comprehensive travel insurance.
Key dates
- 4 September 2026: regulations published.
- 1 October 2026: reported start date. One law firm summary says the regulations themselves do not state a date, so check the official portal.
What to do now
- Check whether you are exempt as a resident of an EAC or SADC state, and keep proof of residence handy.
- If you are not exempt, buy the policy on the official NIC portal, not through a third-party reseller.
- Keep a printed or offline copy of the policy alongside your passport.
- Keep your own travel insurance for gear, cancellations and wider medical cover.
Details may change, so confirm the current rules with the official source before you travel. This is general information, not financial or legal advice.
