Starting October 1, 2026, most travelers to Tanzania must hold mandatory inbound travel insurance to enter. This is a government requirement and is separate from a visa.
There are two separate policies, one for Mainland Tanzania and one for Zanzibar. Which one you need depends on where you land first. This article explains who needs what.
Which policy do I need?
It depends on your first point of entry into Tanzania.
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If you arrive in Mainland Tanzania first (for example, Dar es Salaam, Kilimanjaro, or a land border), you need the National Insurance Corporation (NIC) policy. This also covers you for onward travel to Zanzibar, so you do not need the Zanzibar policy.
Buy it at https://inbound.nicinsurance.co.tz/
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If you arrive in Zanzibar first, you need the Zanzibar Insurance Corporation (ZIC) policy. This covers you for onward travel to Mainland Tanzania, so you do not need the NIC policy.
Buy it at https://inbound.visitzanzibar.go.tz/
Please note: if you already have a ZIC policy but arrive in Mainland Tanzania first, you still need the NIC policy.
How much does it cost?
The fee is 44 USD per adult. Children aged 3 to 17 receive a 50% discount, and infants under 3 are free. The policy is valid for up to 92 days from arrival and allows multiple entries during that period. If you stay longer than 92 days, you need a new policy.
Check your full travel requirements
Requirements can vary by nationality and change on short notice. To confirm everything you need for your trip, check your travel requirements here: apply.joinsherpa.com/travel-restrictions
Who does not need this insurance?
Most travelers to Tanzania are tourists and will need the insurance. You do not need it only if you are one of the following:
- A resident of Tanzania
- A holder of a valid work or residence permit
- A member of the Tanzanian diaspora
- A diplomat
- A transit passenger
- A resident of an East African Community (EAC) Partner State
- A resident of a Southern African Development Community (SADC) Partner State
Need help?
If you have questions about your trip, our team is ready to guide you. Email support@joinsherpa.com and include your order number so we can assist quickly.
This requirement was confirmed with the Tanzania Consulate in New York on September 25, 2026 (+1 212 697 3612).
