Tanzania adds mandatory insurance purchase for most visiting travellers

Tanzania’s entry requirements now include a mandatory travel insurance purchase for most foreign visitors arriving by air, land or sea. The rule takes effect Oct. 1 and affects most Canadian and US tourists, including those who already hold separate trip insurance or coverage through a travel credit card.

Your entry point determines which insurer to use. Travellers arriving on the mainland, including at Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO) or Julius Nyerere International Airport (DAR), must buy coverage from National Insurance Corporation. Those entering through Zanzibar must purchase a Zanzibar Insurance Corporation policy. Either policy permits travel between the mainland and Zanzibar.

Premiums are approximately US$44 per adult and US$22 per child aged 3–17; children under three receive coverage free. Groups of at least 10 qualify for a 10% discount. Policies cover up to 92 days and permit multiple entries within that period. Canadian travellers should budget for the currency conversion when paying.

The required coverage includes emergency assistance for accidents, medical emergencies and repatriation, plus baggage delays and theft, according to the Tanzanian government. Transit passengers are exempt, along with diplomats, certain work and residence permit holders, and some residents of other African countries.

For Canadian and US frequent flyers, the practical step is the same: buy the designated policy before travelling rather than relying on existing credit card insurance. Choose the insurer based on where you enter Tanzania to reduce the risk of delays or refusal of entry.