Mandatory Insurance
Zanzibar : Mandatory Travel Insurance from 1st October 2024​
​​​For all foreigners visiting Zanzibar through the seaport or airport that, effective October 1st 2024, it will be mandatory for all foreigners to possess valid Inbound Travel Insurance which will provide coverage for the duration of their stay (up to 92 days).
The requirement is being implemented to ensure the safety and well-bieng of all foreigners and mitigate any possible risk pertaining to their travel into the island. This policy provides comprehensive coverage for various emergencies including repatriation, evacuation and other related contingencies.
It is essential that all prospective foreigners make necessary arrangements to obtain suitable inbound travel insurance ONLY from Zanzibar Insurance Corporation through the QR code that will be provided before embarking on their journey to Zanzibar. Failure to comply with this mandatory requirement may result in entry denial in immigration checkpoints.
We appreciate your cooperation in adhering to this essential measure aimed at safeguarding your interests while visiting our picturesque destination. Your understanding and compliance are crucial as we collectively strive towards creating a safe and enjoyable experience for everyone visiting Zanzibar.
For further inquiries or clarifications regarding this advisory note and mandatory Inbound Travel Insurance requirements, please visit official government website for updated info at https://visitzanzibar.go.tz or email inbound@zic.co.tz
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Download the official Stake holders pack
Notes from 'The Africa Hub' webinar on Tuesday 17th September 2024.
https://theafricahub.co.uk/free-webinars/
Tim Henshall - Head of Tourism Marketing in the UK - attempted to provide clarity and updates on the "hot" topic of Zanzibar's new mandatory Travel Insurance, during a well-attended The Africa Hub webinar on Tuesday 17th September.
The initiative was extensively debated by over 180** international travel professionals with examples of the questions and answers listed here :
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When does the policy requirement start?
From 1st October 2024, although the website is already live at http://visitzanzibar.go.tz
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Do clients need it when they already have their own travel insurance?
Insurance sourced from ZIC (with AXA) is mandatory, regardless of whatever other policies the traveller may already have. This is to ensure all international visitors to Zanzibar are adequately covered.
AXA in Morocco has been the leading proponent of this initiative and it highlighted the low % of international visitors arriving into the North African country without adequate cover (eg. those travelling with low cost airlines for weekend breaks into Marrakesh).
Numerous industry observers have commented that this is not the case with Tanzania and Zanzibar, with an estimated 95% of visitors already having travel insurance. Whilst no recognised study has been conducted to clarify this, international tour operators have emphasised their requirement for clients to have insurance in place at the time of booking.
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Do all international visitors have to have this particular insurance to gain entry?
Yes, it is a legal requirement for entry to Zanzibar by all international visitors to show that they have ZIC (with AXA) Insurance cover.
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Can visitors gain the insurance 'on arrival"?
It has been stated that gaining insurance cover will be available on arrival, but it is my strong recommendation that visitors buy ahead of time, to be sure of as speedy and trouble-free an entry as possible.
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How much does the insurance cost?
The policy costs $44 for adults; 3-17 year old pay $22, 0-2yr old are included in their parents' cover. The policy gives 92 days worth of cover (and includes the mainland, even though Tanzania does not require it).
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How many clients are likely to claim against the insurance?
In reality, probably not many. We anticipate most UK travellers would prefer to claim against their own (UK-sourced) insurance policies, as they will expect that would involve less red-tape and easier processing.
It is important to recognise that it is criminal offence (fraud) if an individual claims against more than one policy for the same incident. AXA will be aware of this as they themselves will be insuring many people twice-over. This obviously raises questions about whether AXA is able to sell 'duplicate' policies.
At the same time, the cover is modest by international standards as there are numerous clauses and conditions which make claims less likely, due to their limitations and restrictions.
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Where does the revenue from the project go (as clients might respond better if it's for good work)?
We have requested clarity from ZIC and the Ministry of Finance, as we trust it will be put to positive use - for example the building of new medical facilities or the enhanced provision of health care services, across the archipelago. We will advise the trade as soon as we are able.
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Has the travel industry and tourism organisations lobbied against its "hasty" introduction?
Yes, representation has been made to the Ministry of Finance in Zanzibar by numerous trade bodies, including TATO. Various Embassies and High Commissions across the globe, including the UK, have also raised concerns and issues. But it has been passed in Zanzibar's parliament and is now law.
Without further rationalisation and explanation, we do remain concerned that it may give off a negative image of both Zanzibar and the Tanzanian mainland and may provide a competitive advantage to other destinations like Mauritius and the Seychelles.
Tim Henshall committed to keeping this page as regularly as possible.
** 188 travel professionals (94 from the UK) with 48 different nations.
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FAQ's​
What are the significant features and benefits of Inbound Travel insurance?
Inbound Travel insurance cover for unexpected medical illness or any other uncertainties while travelers are in Tanzania. The basic covers provided are the cost of emergency medical expenses and repatriation expenses (body and medical), personal accident, baggage delay, theft and lost, legal expenses, personal liabilities etc.
What will be the term of my contract?
Policy covers are valid inside of Tanzania for a maximum of 92 consecutive days. The policy covers as per the dates mentioned on the policy certificate.
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Why do I need travel insurance while travelling to Zanzibar when I have already medical insurance?
Our Inbound Travel insurance provides you with medical covers for the eligible emergency medical expenses that may not be covered in your medical plan. While your existing medical insurance is valuable, it might not offer the specialized coverage that travel insurance provides.
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The comprehensive protection against a variety of travel-related risks, makes travel insurance a necessary and prudent choice for any traveler and is essential even if you already have medical insurance because travel insurance provides a broader range of coverage specifically designed for travel-related incidents and emergencies.
This plan also covers other benefits on top of the medical expenses such as loss of baggage, repatriation of body, legal liability etc.
Please refer to your policy terms and conditions.
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When should I buy Inbound Travel insurance?
It is advisable to purchase travel insurance straight after you’ve paid the first deposit for your trip. The earlier you purchase, the sooner you have coverage to protect your trip.
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Does Inbound Travel insurance cover terrorism?
Our basic plan does not provide terrorism cover.
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What is the maximum number of travel days an Inbound Travel insurance policy covers?
Our Inbound Travel insurance policy covers individual trips up to 92 days per trip. Unlimited trips can be taken during the policy period, up to the maximum days purchased per trip.
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Is my Inbound Travel insurance policy renewable?
its non-renewable and if you are still in Zanzibar after 92 days you must purchase a new policy.
Are there any exclusions under my insurance?
Yes, but it is difficult to list all exclusions here. However, the following exclusions are generally not covered:
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Circumstances provoked intentionally by the Beneficiary.
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Foreign or civil war whether declared or not, riot and popular.
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Effects of pollution, natural disasters, and their consequences.
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Uprising, act of terrorism or sabotage.
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Surgical treatments and interventions of an aesthetic nature not resulting from an Accident.
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Involvement in fights, except in case of self-defense, and in bets, dares, duels, or crimes
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Pregnancy conditions and their consequences, such as miscarriages.
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The consequences of alcohol abuse.
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The medical expenses relating to check-ups, medical examinations, scheduled or preventative.
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Pre-existing Medical Condition / Illness / convalescence.
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Failure to respect the recognized safety rules for the practice of any.
For other applicable exclusions, please refer to your insurance policy terms and conditions.
Where can I buy Inbound Travel insurance?
You can purchase Inbound Travel insurance though this link : www.visitzanzibar.go.tz
What is the cost of this insurance policy?
The cost of this policy is US $ 44 and is inclusive of all charges per visitor.
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Does this insurance policy offer a family plan?
Yes, the insurance will offer special designed package for a family.
How and when can I pay the premium?
The insurance premiums can be paid by debit card or credit card.
Can I purchase more than one plan to increase my benefits under the policy?
No, only one policy per visitor is allowed per trip.
Would proof of an international insurance coverage be accepted as proof of cover?
No, the insurance policy must be issued by The Zanzibar insurance Corporation that is registered in Tanzania.
Will I receive my policy documentation to carry with me?
Yes, your policy documents will be sent to your registered e-mail address. 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. Don't forget to keep a copy of your policy with you while travelling!
Is there a waiting period before my cover is active?
No, there is no waiting period. Your policy cover is effective upon arrival to Zanzibar.
What is the procedure for reporting any changes in my previously submitted information on the policy?
Our insurance offer is based on the information disclosed by you. In case of any changes in your earlier submitted information or the policy, contact us on +33 170 95 70 25 or 0800008005, 24/7 for our review of the newly submitted information in order to make necessary amendments to your Policy.
How can I cancel my Inbound Travel Insurance policy?
If your trip has not started and you have not made any claim, then you can cancel your policy by contacting us on 0800008005 or +33170957025 or email us at inbound@zic.co.tz
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How to make a claim while travelling?
Remember to take your Inbound Travel insurance policy documents which contain the unique policy number, emergency contact telephone 0800008005 or email us at inbound@zic.co.tz or +331701957025 or email address: medical-service@axa- assistance.ma to report a claim (24/7 Helpline).
Kindly keep receipts for everything you need to support your claim.
How can I file a complaint?
Should you have a complaint about deficiency in the services or the products offered, please contact by phone on the following numbers 0800008005 or email us at inbound@zic.co.tz
Or kindly visit our office to the following postal address: Bima House No: 1 Mpirani St, Mlandege Rd. P.O.Box 432, 71102 Urban West, Zanzibar.
We handle customer complaints fairly, efficiently and with due diligence as per the complaint procedure.
Benefits Schedule
This table shows the Limits of Cover available under each section of the policy. It should be read in conjunction with Your Policy Certificate which will confirm what level of cover You have taken along. All limits and excesses are per person.
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