If you are planning to visit Tanzania for a safari, Mount Kilimanjaro trek, cultural experience or beach holiday, there is an important travel requirement to understand before departure.
The Government of Tanzania has officially announced the implementation of Mandatory Inbound Travel Insurance for foreign visitors entering Mainland Tanzania, beginning 1 October 2026.
The programme was established through the Inbound Travel Insurance Regulations for Foreign Visitors Entering Mainland Tanzania, Government Notice (GN) No. 256 of 2026, dated 4 September 2026. The Ministry of Finance has designated the National Insurance Corporation of Tanzania (NIC) as the insurance provider for visitors entering through Mainland Tanzania.
This guide explains who needs the insurance, how much it costs, how long it is valid, what it covers, where to apply and what travellers should do before arriving in Tanzania.
When Does the Mandatory Travel Insurance Start?
The mandatory inbound travel insurance requirement for foreign visitors entering Mainland Tanzania officially takes effect on:
1 October 2026
The implementation applies to foreign visitors entering Mainland Tanzania through airports, land borders and seaports, subject to the applicable exemptions.
Travellers are strongly advised to arrange the insurance before travelling so that the required documentation is available when they arrive at the entry point.
How Much Does Tanzania Inbound Travel Insurance Cost?
The current premium is:
USD 44 per visitor
The premium is payable in the Tanzanian shilling equivalent of USD 44.
Visitors can make payment online using a debit or credit card. NIC also states that payment can be made by cash at designated entry points for visitors purchasing the insurance upon arrival.
Travellers should check the official NIC portal for the latest payment instructions before travelling.
How Long Is the Insurance Valid?
The inbound travel insurance provides coverage for:
Up to 92 days
NIC states that the policy provides coverage for up to 92 days and allows multiple entries within Tanzania during the validity period, according to the dates stated on the insurance certificate.
Visitors who plan to stay longer than the original policy period can arrange an extension through NIC before the policy expires.
Who Needs the Mandatory Insurance?
The insurance applies to foreign nationals entering Mainland Tanzania through:
- Airports
- Land borders
- Seaports
However, NIC states that the mandatory cover does not apply to residents of East African Community (EAC) Partner States or Southern African Development Community (SADC) Partner States.
Travellers should confirm their eligibility before purchasing the policy, particularly where their nationality and country of residence are different.
What Does the Insurance Cover?
The inbound travel insurance is designed to provide financial protection against specified emergencies and travel-related risks during a visitor’s stay.
According to NIC, the policy includes coverage for:
Emergency Medical Expenses
The insurance provides protection for eligible emergency medical expenses arising from illness or accident, subject to the policy terms and conditions.
Emergency Medical Evacuation
Where medically necessary and covered under the policy, emergency medical evacuation to an appropriate medical facility is included.
Repatriation
The policy provides for eligible repatriation in situations covered by the insurance terms and applicable conditions.
Loss of Luggage
NIC also lists loss of baggage among the areas covered by the inbound travel insurance.
Travellers should read their insurance certificate and policy terms carefully because coverage limits, exclusions and conditions apply.
Where Can I Apply for Tanzania Inbound Travel Insurance?
Foreign visitors entering Mainland Tanzania can apply through the official National Insurance Corporation of Tanzania (NIC) inbound travel insurance portal.
Official Application Portal
Apply for Tanzania Inbound Travel Insurance
NIC also states that the insurance can be purchased upon arrival at designated entry points. However, visitors are advised to obtain the insurance before arrival to facilitate entry procedures and avoid unnecessary delays.
What Information Is Needed to Apply?
NIC states that applicants need to provide information including:
- Passport information
- Travel dates
- Purpose of visit
- Basic personal details
Travellers should ensure that the information entered during the application matches their passport and travel documents.
How Do I Receive Proof of Insurance?
After purchasing the insurance, NIC issues a digital and/or printed insurance certificate.
Travellers should keep a copy of the certificate readily accessible because proof of coverage may be required upon arrival for verification and validation.
It is advisable to save the certificate on a mobile device and keep a backup copy with other important travel documents.
Can I Check My Insurance Status?
Yes.
NIC provides an online system where travellers can verify their insurance using their passport number or policy number.
Check Tanzania Inbound Insurance Status
This can be useful for confirming that the policy information has been correctly recorded before travelling.
When Does the Insurance Become Effective?
NIC states that the insurance coverage becomes effective immediately upon successful payment.
Travellers should nevertheless make sure that the policy certificate contains the correct personal and travel information before beginning their journey.
Can the Insurance Be Extended?
Yes.
If a visitor intends to remain in Tanzania beyond the original policy period, NIC states that an extension can be arranged before the existing policy expires to maintain continuous coverage.
Visitors should contact NIC in advance rather than waiting until the original insurance has expired.
What Happens If My Travel Plans Change?
NIC states that refunds may be granted depending on its refund policy and the timing of cancellation. Supporting evidence, such as proof of trip cancellation, may be required.
Travellers should contact NIC directly to confirm whether their particular situation qualifies for a refund.
How Do I Make a Claim or Get Emergency Assistance?
NIC provides 24/7 claims and assistance for inbound travel insurance.
Emergency assistance
+255 736 100 800
NIC states that this number can be used to guide travellers through the claims and assistance process.
For the latest contact information:
NIC Inbound Travel Insurance Contact Information
NIC currently lists the following contact details:
Local: 0800 110 041
International: +255 736 100 800
Email: wecare.inbound@nicinsurance.co.tz
NIC lists its inbound travel insurance support as available 24/7.
Mainland Tanzania and Zanzibar: What Is the Difference?
Travellers should pay particular attention to this distinction.
The Government of Tanzania has designated:
Mainland Tanzania → National Insurance Corporation (NIC)
Zanzibar → Zanzibar Insurance Corporation (ZIC)
Foreign visitors entering through Mainland Tanzania must obtain the designated inbound travel insurance from NIC, while foreign visitors entering through Zanzibar must obtain the applicable inbound travel insurance from ZIC.
Therefore, travellers should identify their point of entry before purchasing the insurance.
For Zanzibar’s separate insurance programme, travellers should use the official Zanzibar Insurance Corporation/Visit Zanzibar channel rather than the Mainland Tanzania NIC portal.
Important Information for Travellers Entering Tanzania
Before travelling, international visitors should make sure they have:
A valid passport
Check that the passport meets Tanzania’s entry requirements.
The appropriate visa or entry permission
Travellers should check Tanzania’s official immigration requirements based on their nationality and purpose of travel.
Inbound travel insurance where applicable
For foreign visitors entering Mainland Tanzania who fall under the requirement, the current premium is USD 44 per person, with coverage of up to 92 days.
Insurance certificate
Keep the digital or printed certificate available for verification.
Travel itinerary
Keep your accommodation, transport and tour details accessible.
Emergency contacts
Save your insurance provider’s emergency assistance number before travelling.
Quick Facts
| Requirement | Current Information |
|---|---|
| Implementation date | 1 October 2026 |
| Applies to | Foreign visitors entering Mainland Tanzania |
| Entry points | Airports, land borders and seaports |
| Insurance provider | National Insurance Corporation (NIC) |
| Premium | USD 44 per visitor |
| Validity | Up to 92 days |
| Multiple entries | Yes, during the policy validity period |
| Payment | Online card payment or cash at designated entry points |
| Certificate | Digital and/or printed |
| EAC/SADC residents | Excluded according to NIC |
| Emergency assistance | +255 736 100 800 |
Information above is based on the current Government of Tanzania and NIC publications and may be updated as implementation procedures develop.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Tanzania travel insurance mandatory?
For foreign visitors entering Mainland Tanzania who fall within the applicable requirement, NIC describes the inbound travel insurance as mandatory. The official implementation date is 1 October 2026.
How much is Tanzania’s mandatory travel insurance?
The current premium is the Tanzanian shilling equivalent of USD 44 per visitor.
How long is Tanzania inbound travel insurance valid?
The policy is valid for up to 92 days. NIC also states that multiple entries are permitted during the policy’s validity period.
Can I buy the insurance online?
Yes. The official NIC application portal is available online.
Can I buy it after arriving in Tanzania?
NIC states that the insurance can also be purchased upon arrival at designated entry points. However, travellers are strongly advised to arrange the insurance before travelling to facilitate entry procedures.
Does the insurance apply to people entering Tanzania by land?
Yes. The requirement applies to applicable foreign visitors entering Mainland Tanzania through land borders, airports and seaports.
Are EAC and SADC residents required to buy the insurance?
NIC currently states that residents of EAC Partner States and SADC Partner States are excluded from the mandatory cover.
Can I extend the insurance beyond 92 days?
Yes. NIC states that extensions can be arranged before the original policy expires.
Can I verify my policy online?
Yes. Travellers can check their policy status using their passport number or policy number.
Verify Your NIC Insurance Status
Where can I find the official government announcement?
The Ministry of Finance announcement confirming the implementation date, designated providers, premium and maximum validity period is available through the Tanzania Embassy’s official publication.
Government Notice — Tanzania Inbound Travel Insurance
Planning Your Tanzania Safari?
Understanding Tanzania’s travel requirements is an important part of preparing for a smooth trip.
Whether you are planning a Serengeti safari, Ngorongoro adventure, Mount Kilimanjaro climb or a longer Tanzania holiday, make sure your travel documents, insurance and itinerary are prepared before departure.
At Guruguru safaris limited, travellers can plan their Tanzania safari experience with accommodation, wildlife adventures and personalised travel arrangements.
Before travelling, always verify the latest requirements through the relevant official authorities because regulations, procedures and fees can change.
Official Resources
National Insurance Corporation — Inbound Travel Insurance
Official NIC Inbound Insurance Portal
Government of Tanzania
Ministry of Finance / Tanzania Embassy Notice
Important: This article reflects the Government of Tanzania and NIC information available as of 28 September 2026. Travellers should verify the official portals before departure for any subsequent changes to the regulations, fees, coverage or application procedures.
