Tanzania has officially implemented a mandatory travel insurance policy for foreign visitors, requiring most international travelers to pay a USD 44 fee upon entry. This new regulation, which follows a similar model already tested in Zanzibar since October 2024, represents a significant shift in Tanzania's approach to tourist safety and public health infrastructure.
Tanzania Travel Insurance FAQs
Why has Tanzania introduced mandatory travel insurance for visitors?
Tanzania has introduced mandatory travel insurance to enhance visitor safety and support public health infrastructure. The USD 44 fee ensures all foreign tourists have essential coverage for medical emergencies, accidents, and repatriation services during their stay. This policy follows Zanzibar's successful model implemented since October 2024, aiming to reduce healthcare burdens while providing standardized protection for international travelers visiting Tanzania.
How much does Tanzania mandatory travel insurance cost in 2025?
Tanzania mandatory travel insurance costs USD 44 per person, payable upon entry. This fee covers up to 92 days and includes medical emergencies, repatriation, accidents, baggage loss, and theft protection. For families, multiply by the number of travelers a family of four pays USD 176 total. The fee is required regardless of existing international travel insurance coverage.
Do I need to pay for Tanzania travel insurance if I already have international coverage?
Yes, you must pay Tanzania's mandatory travel insurance fee even with existing international coverage. Unlike Cuba's model that accepts proof of adequate insurance, Tanzania requires all foreign visitors to purchase their USD 44 policy. This creates duplicate coverage but is currently non-negotiable. Maintain your existing insurance for comprehensive protection including trip cancellation and specialized coverage.
Are EAC and SADC citizens exempt from Tanzania mandatory travel insurance?
Officially, EAC and SADC citizens should be exempt from Tanzania's mandatory travel insurance. However, recent traveler experiences contradict this policy. A Kenyan visitor reported paying the USD 44 fee in Zanzibar despite being from an EAC nation. This suggests implementation inconsistencies, so EAC/SADC travelers should budget for potential insurance fees when visiting Tanzania.
What does Tanzania USD 44 travel insurance policy actually cover?
Tanzania mandatory travel insurance covers medical emergencies, medical and body repatriation, accidents, baggage delays or loss, and theft for up to 92 days. While comprehensive for basic needs, it may not match international policies' coverage limits or specialized benefits. The policy aims to provide essential protection for all Tanzania visitors regardless of their existing insurance arrangements.
When did Tanzania mandatory travel insurance requirement start?
Tanzania's mandatory travel insurance follows Zanzibar's model, which started in October 2024. The mainland Tanzania implementation began during the current fiscal year. The policy has been actively enforced in Zanzibar since late 2024, with consistent reports of all foreign visitors being required to pay the USD 44 fee upon entry, regardless of existing coverage.
Can I get a refund on Tanzania travel insurance if I do no use it?
No, Tanzania's mandatory travel insurance fee is non-refundable. The USD 44 charge is collected upon entry and provides coverage for your entire stay up to 92 days, whether you need medical services or not. This policy-based fee structure means you cannot receive refunds for unused coverage, making it similar to other mandatory government fees rather than traditional insurance products.
What should I bring for Tanzania mandatory travel insurance payment?
Bring USD 44 cash per traveler for Tanzania's mandatory travel insurance payment at entry points. Have your passport, yellow fever certificate (if required), and documentation ready. While you'll pay for duplicate coverage, maintain your existing international travel insurance for comprehensive protection. Allow extra processing time at borders for insurance payment and documentation procedures.
Will Tanzania mandatory travel insurance policy change in the future?
Tanzania's mandatory travel insurance policy appears permanent, following successful implementation in Zanzibar since October 2024. However, traveler feedback highlighting duplicate coverage concerns may influence future refinements. The travel industry advocates for verification systems allowing proof of existing adequate coverage. Monitor official Tanzania tourism updates for potential policy modifications while budgeting for current USD 44 requirements.
Cindy Sheahan on September 14, 2025
Hello thank you for this article. However, I am not seeing anything online saying that this insurance has been mandated yet and it is now mid September. I am taking a trip in mid October to Tanzania and want to know if this mandatory insurance policy applies yet. I will be spending time in Zanzibar and have already purchased the mandatory insurance for Zanzibar, but I understand it does not cover my time in Tanzania. Please let me know what the Zanzibar insurance situation is.
Thanks.