Tanzania has introduced mandatory travel insurance for foreign visitors entering mainland Tanzania, with the policy costing $44, or about Rwf65,000, and providing cover for stays of up to 92 days.
The requirement was introduced under the Insurance (Inbound Travel Insurance) Regulations, 2026, issued by the Minister for Finance through Government Notice No. 256, published on September 4.
The regulations apply to foreign visitors arriving through Tanzania’s airports, seaports and land borders.
Citizens of East African Community (EAC) and Southern African Development Community (SADC) member states are exempt from the requirement.
Visitors covered by the regulations must have valid inbound travel insurance, which can be purchased before travelling or at a designated point of entry. Those arriving without the required coverage may be denied entry.
The policy covers key emergencies, including medical treatment, medical evacuation, emergency repatriation and loss of luggage. Specific benefit limits will depend on the individual insurance policy.
The insurance will be provided by Tanzania’s National Insurance Corporation (NIC) or other registered insurers operating in partnership with NIC. Insurance products must also be approved by the Tanzania Insurance Regulatory Authority.
Insurers are required to establish systems for verifying premium payments and coverage and to integrate those systems with relevant government authorities.
Visitors remaining in Tanzania beyond the 92-day validity period will be required to obtain a new policy.
The move expands Tanzania’s use of compulsory travel insurance beyond Zanzibar, which introduced a separate mandatory insurance scheme for foreign visitors in October 2024.
It also comes as other East African countries review requirements for international visitors. Kenya introduced a mandatory inbound travel health insurance framework in July 2026, requiring non-Kenyans staying in the country for less than 12 months to have insurance with a minimum cumulative benefit limit of $50,000.
The High Court subsequently suspended implementation of Kenya’s scheme in August after two petitioners challenged the policy.
Tanzania’s new requirement therefore adds another cost and administrative requirement for international visitors, while establishing insurance coverage for medical and other emergencies during their stay.
