Tanzania has announced that all foreign non-residents will be required to buy travel insurance upon entering the country starting from the 2025/2026 fiscal year. The new rule includes a fee of USD 44 per person and is designed to provide coverage for medical emergencies, accidents, and lost luggage. This move is part of the government’s new budget aimed at improving the safety and protection of international travelers.
The Tanzanian government says the policy is meant to ensure tourists are better supported if anything goes wrong during their visit. The mandatory insurance will act as a safety net to reduce risks and improve emergency responses. While many tourists already travel with insurance from their home countries, Tanzania believes its local insurance will guarantee quicker and more consistent support.
The insurance will cover basic services including medical care in emergencies, accidents that happen during the trip, loss or damage of baggage, and other unexpected situations that may require financial assistance. The goal is to give visitors peace of mind and to make Tanzania a safer destination.
However, some tour operators in Tanzania have raised concerns about the new policy. In popular travel areas such as Arusha and Serengeti, operators say the added cost could discourage travelers, especially those on a budget. Since Tanzania competes with countries like Kenya and South Africa for tourists, there is worry that an extra fee might make it less attractive.
Travel companies point out that many international visitors already hold valid insurance policies from private companies in their own countries. They argue that forcing them to pay again could feel unnecessary. There is also concern that the fee might increase the total cost of travel packages, possibly pushing some tourists to visit destinations without such requirements.
Despite the criticism, government officials believe this change will benefit both tourists and the country. They say it will create a more secure environment and reduce stress on public health and emergency systems.
The policy will not apply to everyone equally. Citizens of East African Community (EAC) member states will be exempt from the fee. These include neighboring countries such as Kenya, Uganda, Rwanda, Burundi, South Sudan, and the Democratic Republic of Congo. Officials have also hinted that travelers from Southern African Development Community (SADC) nations might be excluded as well, although this has not yet been confirmed.
One issue that remains unclear is how the insurance will be sold to travelers. The government has not yet announced whether visitors will be able to buy the policy online before arriving. This lack of information could cause confusion, especially for tourists who may be unaware of the new rule. Travel agents and tour operators are urging authorities to make the process easier by allowing online purchases and sharing clear guidance with airlines and entry points.
The idea of mandatory travel insurance is not new in Tanzania. In fact, Zanzibar launched a similar policy in October 2024. In Zanzibar, foreign adults pay USD 44, and children aged 3 to 17 pay USD 22, while infants are not charged. The system is run by the Zanzibar Insurance Corporation and has worked smoothly since its introduction.
Zanzibar’s successful model has likely inspired the national rollout of the insurance policy. Tourism officials hope that by following a similar system, they can improve visitor safety while avoiding major disruptions in the travel experience. However, the full effects of the new rule on Tanzania’s tourism sector will only become clear after it is implemented during the upcoming travel season.
With the busy tourist months approaching, both the government and the travel industry will closely watch how this policy impacts arrival numbers. A well-organized and simple rollout will be key to avoiding confusion and ensuring a good experience for travelers.
