Mandatory Travel Insurance Guide for Travelers Visiting Zanzibar
Effective Date: October 1st, 2024
Starting October 1st, 2024, all foreign travelers visiting Zanzibar will be required to purchase mandatory travel insurance through the Zanzibar Insurance Corporation (ZIC). This new regulation is part of an initiative by the Zanzibar government to enhance visitor protection while on the island.
Here's everything you need to know about this policy:
Key Details:
- Insurance Provider: Zanzibar Insurance Corporation (ZIC)
- Cost: $44 per person
- Validity: 90 days
- Coverage: Health services, lost baggage, accidents, emergency evacuation, document loss, and repatriation in case of death.
Why Is This Mandatory?
You may wonder why this insurance is required if you already have travel insurance from your home country. Here’s why:
- Local Coverage Specificity: Many international insurance plans may not include Zanzibar’s local hospital networks or evacuation procedures. The ZIC plan ensures comprehensive coverage specifically designed for the unique needs of visitors to Zanzibar.
- Filling Gaps: The ZIC insurance also covers situations such as lost baggage and document replacement, which international policies often overlook.
- Simplified Process: The ZIC policy is streamlined with Zanzibar’s tourism system, making administrative procedures smoother for tourists and local authorities alike.
Steps for Compliance:
Purchase the Insurance: All travelers must buy the mandatory insurance from the Zanzibar Insurance Corporation. This can be done before arrival using a QR code that will be provided.
Show Proof Upon Entry: Upon arriving in Zanzibar (either by seaport or airport), you’ll need to show proof of this insurance at immigration.
Consequences of Non-Compliance: Failure to comply with this regulation may result in denial of entry at Zanzibar’s immigration checkpoints.
Benefits of the Insurance:
The mandatory insurance policy includes:
- Comprehensive Health Coverage: Access to local hospital networks and health services during your stay.
- Emergency Evacuation: Coverage for airlifts or emergency evacuations if needed.
- Lost Baggage Protection: Compensation for lost baggage.
- Legal liability
- Repatriation: Coverage for repatriation costs in the unfortunate event of death.
Official Government Statement & Benefits
For more detailed information, please refer to the attached official government statement. We’ve also included a document outlining the full list of insurance benefits.
For any further questions or clarifications, feel free to contact us or reach out to the Zanzibar Insurance Corporation directly via the following channels:
- Website: Visit Zanzibar
- Email: inbound@zic.co.tz
- Toll-Free Number: 0800 008 005
Your understanding and compliance with this new policy will help ensure your visit to Zanzibar is safe, enjoyable, and worry-free.
Thank you for your cooperation!
Download the official government statement and the Zanzibar Insurance FAQs below 👇👇