New Insurance Requirement for Tourists Visiting Zanzibar
In a move designed to enhance traveler safety, Zanzibar will implement a mandatory insurance policy for all tourists starting October 1st. The policy, which costs $44 for up to three months, is aimed solely at visitors to the Zanzibar archipelago and promises immediate assistance for medical emergencies and other urgent situations.
Government Objectives and Insights
During a stakeholders meeting, Dr. Saada Mkuya Salum, the State Minister for Finance and Planning in the Zanzibar President’s Office, revealed this initiative, stating, “Establishing an insurance framework is anticipated to boost tourist numbers and improve revenue generation.” While the concept appears promising, it remains to be seen how much this will attract new tourists, particularly those coming from mainland Tanzania or Kenya who often already have comprehensive trip insurance. Other destinations, such as Cuba, Seychelles, and the Galapagos Islands, have similarly instituted compulsory insurance policies, available for purchase from the local government or personal insurance providers.
The Zanzibar government has also released a formal statement detailing the motivations behind this insurance requirement, which you can find here.
Benefits of Zanzibar’s Compulsory Travel Insurance
Managed by the Zanzibar Insurance Corporation (ZIC), a government-owned entity, this insurance aims to position Zanzibar as a safer travel destination. Claims will be processed solely through this Corporation, and coverage lasts for up to 92 days upon arrival, allowing for unlimited travel within this timeframe. If visitors remain longer than 92 days, they must secure a new policy. This also applies to business visa holders arriving after October 1st.
Key benefits of the mandatory travel insurance include:
Medical Coverage
- Emergency medical expenses (including epidemics and pandemics) up to $50,000 (covers activities like kitesurfing and scuba diving)
- Compulsory quarantine costs due to health emergencies
- Emergency medical evacuation and repatriation expenses (covering epidemics and pandemics)
- Extension of stay for those medically unfit to fly, plus one accompanying person
24/7 Support Services
- Round-the-clock emergency medical assistance
- Consular referrals
- Emergency accommodation and travel arrangements
- Urgent message transmission
Personal Accident, Repatriation, and Liability
- Accidental death in public transport incidents up to $20,000
- Personal liability coverage up to $30,000
- Permanent total disability benefits up to $20,000
- Body repatriation in the event of death
Legal and Baggage Coverage
- Legal fees up to $2,000
- Bail advances up to $2,000
- Compensation for baggage delays at $25 per hour, up to $200
- Theft, loss, or damage to baggage (in the care of the airline) up to $400
For more comprehensive information and FAQs, please consult the official insurance documentation.
Steps to Obtain Zanzibar’s Mandatory Insurance
The application process is straightforward: visit the official Zanzibar tourism website at https://visitzanzibar.go.tz/, enter your details, and pay the $44 fee (children aged 3-17 pay $22, and those under 3 are free). The coverage applies to individuals within the Zanzibar archipelago. Upon processing your insurance and payment, you will receive a receipt with a QR code to present upon arrival at Zanzibar’s immigration alongside your tourist visas. A family or group insurance option may be available in the future.
Travelers arriving via travel agents or third parties should verify whether their agent will handle this compulsory insurance or if they need to arrange it themselves. Visitors without mandatory insurance may be denied entry to Zanzibar. Although insurance can be purchased directly at the airport, ZIC recommends securing it in advance to avoid queues and ensure a seamless immigration experience.
Claiming Insurance During Your Trip
To file a claim while traveling, ensure you have your inbound travel insurance documents, which include your unique policy number, effective date, terms and conditions, and other relevant information. For emergencies or to report a claim, contact the 24/7 helpline at 0800008005, email inbound@zic.co.tz, or call +331701957025. You can also reach out to medical-service@axa-assistance.ma. Remember to keep all receipts and documentation to support your claim.
In summary Mandatory Travel Insurance in Zanzibar
Zanzibar’s new mandatory insurance policy for visitors is intended to bolster safety, reduce healthcare-related incidents, and facilitate efficient hospitalization and treatment should an emergency arise during your visit. While there are mixed opinions about the initiative, its success will unfold over time. If you plan to visit Zanzibar, we recommend thoroughly reviewing the mandatory policy and considering your personal insurance to ensure comprehensive coverage tailored to your specific needs. Regardless of the regulations, it’s prudent to have a good grasp of the local healthcare system and potential risks. Travel wisely, stay secure, and enjoy your adventure.
