Zanzibar’s New Mandatory Travel Insurance for Non-Residents

Check out this overview of Zanzibar’s new travel rules.

Our family has spent the past three years living outside of the U.S. and has lived on the breathtaking island of Zanzibar for two.

Today, I’ll address the basic questions regarding Zanzibar’s new mandatory travel insurance policy, which was introduced on October 1, 2024.

This policy applies to all non-resident visitors, regardless of nationality or visa type.

Key Information:

• Cost: The insurance costs $44 for adults (18 and older), $22 for children (ages 3–17), and is free for infants (ages 0–2).
• Coverage: The insurance covers critical protections including emergency medical assistance, repatriation, and personal liability.
• Duration: The policy is valid for up to 92 days. Visitors planning extended stays or multiple entries may need to purchase additional coverage.
• Purchase Options: It’s recommended to secure the insurance online before traveling, but it can also be purchased upon arrival at the airport. The Zanzibar Insurance Corporation (ZIC) website is a reliable source for this.

Even if you already have your own travel insurance, Zanzibar’s policy is a separate requirement. Visitors without mandatory insurance may be denied entry, so it’s crucial to comply with this rule to avoid travel complications.

You can learn more about this insurance and apply for it on the website of the Zanzibar Insurance Corporation.

I hope this information helps you in planning your next visit to Zanzibar.

If you’re interested in more travel resources, we’ve collected them in the form of ebooks, virtual workshops, and more on our website.

Thank you for reading.

~ Josiah