From 1st October 2026, most foreign visitors entering Mainland Tanzania will be required to hold valid Inbound Travel Insurance under the Insurance (Inbound Travel Insurance) Regulations, 2026 (Government Notice No. 256).
The requirement applies to entry through airports, seaports and land borders.
What Travellers Need to Know about the Inbound Travel Insurance
- Standard Adult Premium: USD 44 (or equivalent in Tanzanian Shillings)
- Validity: Up to 92 days, including multiple entries
- Where to Buy: Online before travel or upon arrival
- Cover Includes: Emergency medical treatment, medical evacuation, repatriation, and loss of luggage
- Infants (0–2 years): Free
- Children (3-17 years): 50% discount
- Groups of 10 or more: Adults receive a 10% discount
Who Is Exempted from the Inbound Travel Insurance?
According to current guidance from the National Insurance Corporation (NIC), the following categories are exempted:
- Tanzanian residents
- Holders of valid work or residential permits
- Diaspora
- Diplomats
- Transit passengers
- Residents of East African Community (EAC) or Southern African Development Community (SADC) Partner States
Mainland Tanzania (NIC) vs Zanzibar (ZIC)
- If you arrive in Mainland Tanzania first: Purchase the National Insurance Corporation (NIC) Inbound Travel Insurance. You do not need to buy the separate Zanzibar (ZIC) insurance if you later travel to Zanzibar. Keep a copy of your NIC certificate available for verification.
- If you arrive in Zanzibar first: Guests who already hold valid Zanzibar (ZIC) Inbound Travel Insurance do not need to purchase the National Insurance Corporation (NIC) Mainland insurance again. Keep a copy of the Zanzibar (ZIC) insurance certificate ready for inspection.
Advice for Tour Operators and Travellers
Tour operators are encouraged to inform guests well in advance and advise them to complete their insurance application before travel to avoid delays on arrival.
Guests using the Uhuru VIP Terminal at Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO) or the Boma Lounge at Arusha Airport (ARK) can request assistance from Miracle Concierge hosts, who can help with the application and payment (administration fee of USD 5 per passenger applies in addition to the insurance premium).
Responsible Tourism Company
Planning a trip that combines Uganda with Tanzania? Responsible Tourism Company keeps travellers informed about the latest entry requirements across East Africa. We can help you prepare the necessary documentation, coordinate your itinerary, and ensure a smooth journey.
Contact us at Responsible Tourism Company today for up-to-date advice and to plan your responsible Uganda-Tanzania experience.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
When does the new insurance requirement start?
From 1st October 2026.
How much does the standard adult premium cost?
USD 44 (or the equivalent in Tanzanian Shillings).
What does the insurance cover?
Emergency medical treatment, medical evacuation, repatriation, and loss of luggage.
Do children pay full price?
Infants aged 0-2 travel free. Children aged 3-17 years receive a 50% discount.
I am travelling from Uganda to Tanzania. Do I need this insurance?
Most foreign visitors (unless exempted) will need the National Insurance Corporation (NIC) Inbound Travel Insurance when entering Mainland Tanzania. Residents of East African Community (EAC) Partner States are currently listed as exempt, always confirm the latest guidance before travel.
Where can I buy the insurance?
Online via the official National Insurance Corporation (NIC) portal before travel, or upon arrival.
Note: This information is based on Government Notice No. 256 of 2026 and available operational guidance as of September 2026. Requirements and procedures may be updated by the relevant authorities. Travellers are advised to verify the latest details before departure.