From October 1, 2024, visitors to Zanzibar, Tanzania, will be required to have mandatory travel insurance to visit the archipelago.
Zanzibar, the Tanzanian archipelago, plans to introduce new travel regulations for incoming visitors.
Beginning on that date, every non-resident traveller must purchase a US$44 travel insurance policy in addition to the Tanzania e-Visa. This rule applies to all foreigners entering Zanzibar by air or sea.
The Revolutionary Government of Zanzibar announced the change, stating:
“We inform all foreigners planning to visit the beautiful island of Zanzibar through the seaport or airport that, effective October 1, 2024, they must possess valid Inbound Travel Insurance that covers the duration of their stay (up to 92 days).”
Why the Zanzibar government request the travel insurance
Zanzibar authorities say the requirement aims to “ensure the safety and well-being of all foreigners and reduce potential risks for anyone travelling to the island.” They explain that the policy covers a wide range of emergencies, including repatriation, evacuation, and other urgent needs.
Many people tell this writer that the policy feels like a money machine or even a scam. However, when we look back at the years from 2020 to 2022 during the pandemic, thousands of travellers moved around without health insurance. Schengen states already require visa applicants to carry travel insurance before entering the European Union. The debate continues, but the Zanzibarian Government may see this step as necessary. Some believe Tanzania should simply require every traveller to have travel insurance, just as Schengen countries do.
Travellers must buy this insurance directly from the Zanzibar Insurance Corporation (ZIC), a company the Zanzibar Government owns. ZIC will open subscriptions on September 1, 2024. Personal insurance will not meet the new requirement.
The Revolutionary Government of Zanzibar warns that immigration officers may deny entry to anyone who arrives without the mandatory insurance.
Mandatory insurance for Zanzibar in detail
When to buy Zanzibar travel insurance?
It is advisable to buy travel insurance immediately after paying the first deposit for your trip. The earlier you buy the insurance, the sooner you will have coverage to protect your trip.
Registration for Zanzibar insurance will start on September 1, 2024.
Where to buy the mandatory insurance for Zanzibar?
You must buy Zanzibar travel insurance from the Zanzibar Insurance Corporation (ZIC): www.visitzanzibar.go.tz.
How much does this insurance policy cost?
The cost of the Zanzibar insurance policy is US$44.
What does Zanzibar travel insurance cover?
Travel insurance covers unexpected illnesses or any other uncertainty while travelers are in Tanzania. The basic coverages are: Emergency medical expenses and repatriation expenses (bodily and medical), personal accident, baggage delay, theft and loss, legal expenses, third party liability, etc.
How will you receive your insurance for Zanzibar?
Your insurance documents will be sent to the email address you registered online. The confirmation of coverage will include policy information such as your unique policy number, policy effective date, benefits, terms and conditions, limitations, exclusions and other important information.
Remember to keep a copy of your policy with you when you travel to Zanzibar!
What is the maximum number of days covered by the Zanzibar travel insurance policy?
The insurance policy covers individual trips up to 92 days per stay. Unlimited trips can be made during the insurance period up to the maximum number of days purchased per trip.
Is Zanzibar travel insurance renewable?
The insurance policy is not renewable and if you are still in Zanzibar after 92 days, you must take out a new policy.
Further information is available on the portal www.visitzanzibar.go.tz.
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