As of October 1, 2024, the Revolutionary Government of Zanzibar has implemented a new travel insurance policy, making it mandatory for all foreign visitors to obtain inbound travel insurance before entering the Zanzibar archipelago.
This initiative, spearheaded by the Zanzibar Insurance Corporation (ZIC), aims to ensure tourists receive immediate support in case of medical emergencies, accidents, or other unforeseen events during their stay.
In this article:
Key Aspects of Zanzibar’s Mandatory Travel Insurance
The travel insurance policy, available for a maximum of 92 days (approximately three months), will cost $44 USD for adults and $22 USD for children aged 3-17, while children under three will be covered free of charge. Visitors who plan to stay beyond 92 days will need to purchase a new policy. The insurance is specifically for tourists arriving in Zanzibar and is designed to offer comprehensive coverage throughout the visitor’s time on the islands.
Dr. Saada Mkuya Salum, Zanzibar’s Finance and Planning State Minister, announced the initiative, noting its potential to boost tourism and increase government revenues. According to Dr. Salum, this policy aligns with other countries like Cuba, Seychelles, and the Galapagos Islands, where similar mandatory insurance schemes are in place to safeguard visitors.
As of October 1, 2024, the Revolutionary Government of Zanzibar has implemented a new travel insurance policy, making it mandatory for all foreign visitors to obtain inbound travel insurance before entering the Zanzibar archipelago.
This initiative, spearheaded by the Zanzibar Insurance Corporation (ZIC), aims to ensure tourists receive immediate support in case of medical emergencies, accidents, or other unforeseen events during their stay.
Coverage and Benefits
The mandatory travel insurance policy for tourists visiting Zanzibar offers extensive coverage to ensure peace of mind in case of emergencies. The plan encompasses a variety of key areas, providing a comprehensive safety net during your stay:
1. Medical and Related Expenses
- Coverage for emergency medical expenses, up to $50,000, including treatment related to pandemics and epidemics.
- Financial support for compulsory quarantine due to pandemic-related incidents.
- Emergency medical evacuation and repatriation services.
- Extension of stay if travelers are deemed medically unfit to fly.
2. 24/7 Assistance Services
- Round-the-clock access to emergency medical assistance.
- Arrangements for emergency accommodation and travel if required.
- Consular referrals and urgent message transmission services for emergencies.
3. Personal Accident and Liability
- Accidental death coverage related to public transport incidents, up to $20,000.
- Personal liability protection up to $30,000.
- Coverage for permanent total disability up to $20,000.
- Repatriation services in case of death.
4. Legal and Baggage Assistance
- Legal expenses covered up to $2,000, including advances for bail if necessary.
- Compensation for delayed baggage (up to $200) and coverage for theft, loss, or damage up to $400.
This robust insurance plan ensures that visitors are well-protected, offering a safety net for various situations, from medical emergencies to personal accidents, legal issues, and travel-related inconveniences.
This illustration of a protective bubble symbolizes protection and security, it represents the concept of travel insurance for families.
Application Process
Tourists can easily apply for the mandatory insurance by visiting the official Zanzibar tourism website here and completing a simple form. After providing the required information and paying the fee, a receipt with a QR code will be issued. This QR code must be presented at immigration upon arrival.
For those booking through third-party services such as travel agents, it is important to confirm whether the agent will arrange the insurance or if it needs to be purchased separately.
Travelers who arrive without the required insurance may be denied entry. However, insurance can also be purchased directly at Zanzibar’s airport for those who haven’t secured it in advance.
Making a Claim
If a tourist needs to make a claim during their stay, they should ensure they have all relevant insurance documentation, including the policy number and other essential details. To file a claim or report an emergency, tourists can contact the 24/7 helpline at 0800008005 or email [email protected] for assistance. Tourists are advised to keep all receipts and supporting documents for a smoother claims process.
Enhancing Safety and Economic Growth
Zanzibar's government has expressed confidence that the mandatory insurance scheme will enhance tourist safety and provide greater protection against emergencies, medical issues, and accidents. As the archipelago increasingly positions itself as a premier destination for global travelers, this initiative is also expected to improve tourism infrastructure and contribute to economic growth by creating a safer, more secure environment for visitors.
Furthermore, by increasing visitor confidence, the policy may drive higher tourist numbers, thereby boosting local businesses, hotels, and the broader tourism industry. In addition, the insurance policy helps to safeguard against possible medical-related financial burdens, thereby reducing risks for both tourists and local healthcare providers.
Final Thoughts
While the new policy has sparked some debate, particularly among tourists from neighboring countries like Tanzania and Kenya, where they may already have travel insurance, the Zanzibar government sees it as a positive step toward improving the safety and well-being of visitors. Over time, the success of the initiative will depend on its implementation and the ease with which travelers can access the insurance and make claims.
As Zanzibar continues to grow as a key global tourist destination, the introduction of mandatory travel insurance signals the government's commitment to ensuring that tourists can enjoy their stay on the islands with peace of mind, knowing they are well protected in the event of an emergency.
Whether you are planning a leisurely vacation or a business trip, be sure to familiarize yourself with the mandatory insurance requirements to ensure a smooth and enjoyable experience in Zanzibar.
