In a move aimed at enhancing visitor safety, the government of Tanzania has introduced a new requirement for all foreign non-residents traveling to the country. Starting from the 2025/2026 fiscal year, all visitors will be required to purchase Tanzania travel insurance upon arrival. This new policy mandates a fee of USD 44 per person, and it will cover essential services such as medical emergencies, accidents, and lost baggage.
While this change has stirred some concerns within the tourism sector, it is part of a broader initiative introduced by the government in the new fiscal budget. The goal is to improve emergency preparedness and ensure that visitors are well-supported in case something goes wrong during their stay.
Also Read: Only 2 Weeks to Go: Countdown to KATA’s 2025 AGM & Convention in Mombasa
Why Is This Policy Being Implemented?
The Tanzanian government has justified the introduction of Tanzania travel insurance by highlighting the need for financial protection for tourists. According to government officials, the policy is designed to cover situations like:
- Medical emergencies
- Accidents that may occur during a stay
- Baggage loss or damage
- Unexpected events that might require compensation
This insurance is intended to provide tourists with peace of mind, knowing they will have access to assistance in case of an emergency. Although many visitors already have travel insurance from private providers or their home countries, the government argues that this additional coverage is necessary for the safety of foreign nationals.
What’s the Tourism Industry Impact?
While the policy is designed to protect visitors, some tourism operators in Tanzania are concerned about its potential impact on the country’s tourism industry. Tour operators, especially in popular tourist regions like Arusha, have expressed concerns that the extra fee might discourage travelers from visiting Tanzania. The tourism sector already faces significant competition from other destinations, and adding an additional cost could make Tanzania less attractive to potential visitors.
- Many tourists already have valid insurance from their home countries or private insurers.
- The added cost of Tanzania travel insurance could impact the pricing of travel packages.
- There is a fear that some travelers may opt for alternative destinations without such insurance requirements.
Despite these concerns, the government has emphasized the importance of creating a safety net for foreign visitors. Officials believe this policy will provide a greater sense of security and could encourage more responsible tourism.
Exemptions for Certain Travelers
One of the key aspects of the new policy is that it will not apply to all foreign visitors equally. Specifically, citizens of East African Community (EAC) member states will be exempt from the Tanzania travel insurance requirement. This is in line with Tanzania’s regional commitments, as the EAC consists of neighboring countries that already have certain agreements in place. Additionally, there is speculation that nationals from Southern African Development Community (SADC) countries may also be exempt, but this has not yet been confirmed.
Implementation and Digital Access Concerns
Another point of concern for both travelers and industry stakeholders is how the mandatory travel insurance will be purchased. As of now, the Tanzanian government has not clarified whether travelers will be able to buy the insurance online before arriving in the country. Tourists, especially those unfamiliar with the new policy, may face delays or confusion at airports if they are not aware of the requirement.
To avoid confusion, travel agents and operators are urging the government to provide clear instructions and establish an online system where visitors can purchase Tanzania travel insurance in advance. This would ensure a smoother process and help mitigate any negative impacts on the overall travel experience.
Zanzibar’s Insurance Policy as a Precedent
Tanzania’s new insurance policy closely follows a similar move by Zanzibar, which introduced a mandatory insurance fee for foreign visitors in October 2024. Zanzibar travel insurance policy costs USD 44 for adults and USD 22 for children aged 3 to 17, with infants being exempt from the fee. This insurance policy in Zanzibar is managed by the Zanzibar Insurance Corporation (ZIC).
Given Zanzibar’s successful implementation of this initiative, mainland Tanzania has decided to adopt a similar approach. However, the implementation will be monitored closely by industry stakeholders to ensure it does not disrupt the flow of tourism, particularly during the peak travel seasons.
Bottom Line
The introduction of Tanzania travel insurance for foreign visitors marks a significant change in the country’s approach to tourism and visitor safety. While the new policy aims to provide essential coverage in case of emergencies, it also raises concerns about its impact on tourism competitiveness. The government will need to ensure a smooth implementation process, particularly by providing clear guidance to travelers and industry professionals about how the insurance will be purchased.
As Tanzania moves forward with this policy, the tourism sector will closely watch its effect on visitor numbers, especially as the high travel season approaches. Ensuring that the policy is transparent and easy to navigate could help alleviate some of the concerns raised by operators, ultimately benefiting both visitors and the broader tourism industry.
Source: travelandtourworld
