Important Update: New Mandatory Health Insurance for Visitors to Zanzibar

Why Is This Insurance Being Introduced?
The Zanzibar government’s decision to implement mandatory travel insurance stems from the need to protect visitors against unexpected health emergencies and travel interruptions. With a growing number of international tourists, ensuring that all visitors have access to medical coverage has become a top priority. This insurance aims to reduce financial risks for travelers while easing the burden on local healthcare systems.

Key Benefits of Zanzibar’s Travel Insurance
The insurance will be managed by the Zanzibar Insurance Corporation (ZIC), a government-owned entity dedicated to making Zanzibar a safer destination. Here are the key benefits of this mandatory travel insurance:

• Medical & Related Expenses: Coverage for emergency medical expenses (including epidemics and pandemics) up to USD 50,000, including sports like kite-surfing and scuba diving, and expenses for compulsory quarantine.
• 24/7 Assistance Services: Access to emergency medical assistance, consular referrals, and emergency accommodation arrangements.
• Personal Accident, Repatriation, and Liability: Coverage for accidental death up to USD 20,000, personal liability up to USD 30,000, and body repatriation in case of death.
• Legal Expenses and Baggage: Lawyer’s expenses up to USD 2,000, and coverage for baggage delays and theft.

The insurance is valid for up to 92 days from your arrival, allowing for unlimited trips within this period. If you stay longer than 92 days, you’ll need to purchase a new insurance policy.

How Much Will It Cost?
The mandatory insurance will cost $44 per person. This fee applies to all non-Tanzanian nationals, with reduced rates for children aged 3-17 at $22, and free for those under 3.

How to Comply with the Insurance Requirement
Visitors must ensure they have proof of this insurance when traveling to Zanzibar. Here’s what you need to know:

• Proof Required at Check-In: Before boarding a flight or ferry to Zanzibar, travelers must present proof of the inbound health insurance.
• Online Purchase Option: For those who prefer to be prepared, the insurance can be purchased online by visiting the official Zanzibar tourism website https://visitzanzibar.go.tz/insurance. After payment, you’ll receive a receipt with a QR code to present upon arrival at immigration.
• Travel Agents: If you arrive through a travel agent, check whether they will arrange this compulsory insurance for you or if you need to secure it yourself. Visitors without mandatory travel insurance may be denied entry.

How to Make a Claim for an Incident
If you need to make a claim while traveling, ensure you have your inbound travel insurance policy documents with you, including your unique policy number and terms and conditions. In case of an emergency or to report a claim, contact the 24/7 helpline at 0800008005, email inbound@zic.co.tz, or call +331701957025. Keep all receipts and documentation to support your claim.

Final Thoughts on Mandatory Zanzibar Insurance
The new mandatory insurance for Zanzibar visitors aims to enhance safety, minimize care-related incidents and ensure a smooth hospitalization and treatment process if needed. If you are planning to visit Zanzibar, we recommend reviewing the mandatory policy carefully and considering maintaining your own insurance for comprehensive protection tailored to your specific needs. Regardless of the requirements, it’s always wise to travel with a good understanding of the local healthcare system and other potential risks.

Stay updated on further announcements from the Zanzibar government as more details may emerge.You can also find answers to frequently asked questions on the official website https://visitzanzibar.go.tz.

Traveling to Zanzibar means experiencing stunning beaches, rich culture and warm hospitality. With this new insurance policy in place, your trip will not only be enjoyable but also safeguarded against potential emergencies. Safe travels!

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