Zanzibar: the compulsory insurance to buy before you travel

Update of 4 October 2026. Since 1 October 2026 mainland Tanzania also has compulsory entry insurance, issued by the National Insurance Corporation (NIC): $44, 92 days, at inbound.nicinsurance.co.tz. According to the country page of Viaggiare Sicuri, the travel advice service of the Italian Ministry of Foreign Affairs (for UK travellers, see the FCDO travel advice for Tanzania), those entering via the mainland buy the NIC policy, while those entering via Zanzibar buy the ZIC policy described below.

To enter the Zanzibar archipelago, every foreign visitor must hold insurance issued by the Zanzibar Insurance Corporation, the island’s state insurer. It is not optional and cannot be replaced by a policy bought in Italy, however comprehensive.

What it costs and what it covers

The policy costs $44 per person, with a reduced rate for minors shown on the portal. It is valid for a stay in the archipelago of up to about three months and covers emergency medical expenses, medical evacuation and repatriation, as well as certain items such as baggage and documents.

How to buy it

It is bought online on the official portal of the Government of Zanzibar, inbound.visitzanzibar.go.tz, and a certificate with a code to show on arrival is sent by email. It is best done a few weeks before departure, together with the visa for Tanzania: it can be bought at the airport, but that means queues and possible problems with payment.

What it means for travellers

Two things. First: it is a cost to factor in, on top of the visa. Second: it does not replace your own insurance. The local policy is designed for emergencies on the island; for cancellation, high medical costs or early return you need comprehensive cover, which is already included in our trips.

Fees and rules may change: always check the official sources listed before you travel.