The Tanzanian government has announced a significant new policy: the introduction of a mandatory special insurance fee for foreign visitors entering Mainland Tanzania. This initiative aims to protect international guests against various unforeseen risks, including accidents, health emergencies, lost luggage, and the need for urgent rescue services, thereby enhancing their safety and well-being while in the country. The proposal, unveiled by the Minister for Finance, Dr. Mwigulu Nchemba, in Dodoma, mandates a fee of 44 US dollars (approximately 115,000 to 116,000 Tanzanian Shillings) per visitor, which will cover the comprehensive travel insurance.

Dr. Nchemba clarified that this compulsory fee will not apply to citizens of the East African Community (EAC) and the Southern African Development Community (SADC), highlighting a regional exemption. He emphasized the dual objective of the policy: "Our goal is to ensure that visitors receive quality health and safety services while in Tanzania, but we also want them to contribute fairly to the systems that support those services." The funds collected through this insurance scheme are earmarked for critical areas such as healthcare services, emergency infrastructure development, and establishing a rapid response system specifically designed to support visitors during crises. This strategic allocation of funds aims to strengthen Tanzania's global standing as a secure and reliable destination for both tourism and investment.

The legal framework for this measure is rooted in the Insurance Act, Cap 394, with Minister Nchemba formally proposing an amendment to this act during the government's budget estimates presentation for the 2025/26 Financial Year. The implementation of this mandatory inbound travel insurance will officially commence once the related regulations are gazetted, with the public being informed upon completion of this process. The insurance coverage is designed to be valid for up to 92 days per visitor.

This initiative follows a precedent set in Zanzibar in October 2024, where a similar mandatory insurance scheme was introduced, charging foreign adults 44 US dollars and children aged 3-17 22 US dollars, with infants exempt, managed via the Zanzibar Insurance Corporation (ZIC). For Mainland Tanzania, the new insurance scheme will be implemented through a robust public-private partnership. The state-owned National Insurance Corporation (NIC) will represent the government, and a revenue-sharing framework will be established involving authorized agents and private insurers to ensure effective management and efficient delivery of services.

The government frames this measure as crucial for several reasons: it provides vital protection for visitors, reduces the financial burden on the national budget by enabling swift responses to visitor emergencies without relying on domestic taxpayers, and alleviates strain on public health systems, particularly in remote areas like safari and national park zones. Ultimately, this new policy marks a significant turning point in Tanzanian travel regulations. By balancing visitor safety and health coverage with maintaining a friendly and competitive tourism environment, Tanzania seeks to bolster its reputation as a safe, responsible, and attractive destination for international travelers.