Tanzania Mandates Travel Insurance for Foreign Visitors

Mainland Tanzania has implemented a mandatory travel insurance scheme for foreign visitors, as detailed in the Insurance (Inbound Travel Insurance) Regulations, 2026, published in Government Notice No. 256 on September 4, 2026. Under these regulations, foreign nationals entering Tanzania by air, sea, or land must possess an Inbound Travel Insurance policy, which can be purchased prior to departure or upon arrival.

The policy must cover emergency treatment, emergency medical evacuation, emergency repatriation, and loss of baggage, and is valid for up to 92 days. Visitors who stay beyond this period must acquire a new policy.

The National Insurance Corporation (NIC) is the primary insurer for this scheme, with other registered insurers allowed to participate only in partnership with the NIC. Notably, visitors arriving without valid insurance may be refused entry.

The regulations exempt residents of EAC and SADC member states, but visitors from countries like the United Kingdom, Canada, and Australia will be required to comply. There is an unresolved issue regarding the interaction between this scheme and Zanzibar's existing insurance policy, which has been in effect since October 1, 2024.