If you are planning a trip to Tanzania, there is a crucial new travel requirement you need to factor into your trip planning before you pack your bags.
Tanzania has officially introduced a Mandatory Inbound Travel Insurance requirement for foreign visitors. Here is everything you need to know about how this affects your upcoming trip, how much it costs, and how to get it.
What Is the New Tanzania Travel Insurance Requirement?
Effective October 1, 2026, all foreign visitors entering Mainland Tanzania are required to hold a mandatory inbound travel insurance policy issued by the country’s National Insurance Corporation (NIC).
Important Note: Even if you already have comprehensive international travel insurance, credit card coverage, or private health coverage, you are still required to purchase this local Tanzanian policy.
| Key Details | Mainland Tanzania Insurance |
|---|---|
| Effective Date | October 1, 2026 |
| Cost | USD $44 per visitor (payable in USD or TZS equivalent) |
| Max Coverage Length | Up to 92 days (multiple entries allowed) |
| Where to Buy | Online at inbound.nicinsurance.co.tz or on arrival |
What Does the Insurance Cover?
The policy is designed to cover key travel and medical emergencies while you are in the country, including:
- Emergency medical expenses and hospitalization
- Emergency medical evacuation
- Repatriation of remains
- Personal accident coverage
- Baggage loss or delay
What Information Do You Need to Apply?
When purchasing your inbound policy online or at the border, make sure you have the following underwriting details ready:
- Passport Number
- Full Name and Date of Birth
- Nationality and Country of Residence
- Arrival Date and Departure Date
- Purpose of Travel (e.g., Leisure, Business)
- Contact Details and Emergency Contact Person
- First Point of Entry into Tanzania
- Payment Method (Credit/Debit card or cash on arrival)
Where and How Can You Purchase the Insurance?
You have two options for purchasing your policy:
- Online (Recommended): Apply in advance at the official portal: inbound.nicinsurance.co.tz. You can pay securely using debit or credit cards.
- On Arrival: You can purchase coverage at designated entry points upon landing or crossing the border. Official counters for the National Insurance Corporation (NIC) and NMB Bank are set up to process cash or card payments.
Designated Entry Points Offering On-Site Coverage
Airports
- Julius Nyerere International Airport (DAR)
- Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO)
- Songwe Airport (MBI)
- Mwanza Airport (MWZ)
- Arusha Airport (ARK)
Land Borders
- Namanga Border (Kenya border)
- Tarakea Border (Kenya border)
- Horohoro Border (Kenya border)
- Holili Border (Kenya border)
- Sirari Border (Kenya border)
- Tunduma Border (Zambia border)
- Rusumo Border (Rwanda border)
- Mutukula Border (Uganda border)
What Else Do You Need to Travel to Tanzania?
Before departure, make sure you have all three core entry requirements checked off:
-
Tourist Visa
- Cost: $100 for U.S. citizens; $50 for standard passport holders (Canadians, Europeans, UK, Australian, Asian citizens, etc.).
- How to get it: Apply for an e-Visa online in advance or obtain a Visa on Arrival at designated ports.
- Note: Citizens under the Referral Visa category cannot get a Visa on Arrival and must apply online well in advance.
-
Mandatory Inbound Insurance
- Purchased online or on arrival for $44 per person.
-
Vaccines and Health Clearance
- Ensure routine inoculations are up to date. A Yellow Fever Vaccination Certificate is required if you are traveling from or transiting through a yellow-fever endemic country.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What if I already have my own travel insurance?
You must still purchase the government-mandated local policy. Personal travel insurance will not exempt you from this entry requirement at border control. Think of your personal policy as supplementary coverage.
When should you buy NIC inbound travel insurance?
You should purchase your insurance online before arrival at entry points. Having your printed or digital insurance certificate ready will speed up your immigration processing.
What is the duration of the policy?
The policy provides coverage for up to 92 days from your arrival date and permits multiple entries into Mainland Tanzania during that period.
How do travelers file a claim with NIC during their stay?
NIC provides 24/7 assistance for travelers after your policy start date. In the event of a claim or emergency, you can contact NIC directly through their dedicated emergency support line (Toll-Free within Tanzania: 0800110041), via email at customercare@nictanzania.co.tz, or by visiting any local NIC branch office.
