Home Arrow FAQs Arrow What documents do I need to enter Zanzibar?

What documents do I need to enter Zanzibar?

Zanzibar is a region of Tanzania, which has limited self-rule, and foreigners are required to abide by the Tanzanian immigration laws and additional entry conditions imposed by the Zanzibar authorities. No matter what you are traveling for, tourism, business, or any other short-term purpose, it is undeniably essential to prepare the relevant documents in advance so that you can meet entry requirements and avoid unnecessary delays upon arrival at Zanzibar International Airport or other authorized ports of entry.

1. Valid Passport

Everyone traveling to Zanzibar must hold a valid passport issued by a recognized authority. Your passport must be valid for at least six months from the date of entry and contain at least one blank page for immigration stamps. Airlines may deny boarding, or immigration authorities may refuse entry, if the passport is damaged or does not meet validity requirements.

2. Tanzania Visa or Visa Exemption

Zanzibar does not issue a separate visa. Most foreign nationals require a valid Tanzania visa to enter Zanzibar, as it is part of the United Republic of Tanzania. Depending on your nationality, you may apply for:

  • Visa on Arrival, which is offered to eligible nationalities at Zanzibar International Airport.
  • A Tanzania eVisa, which can be applied for online before traveling.

Some nationalities are exempt from visa requirements for short stays. There are always possibilities of a change in visa policies, and as a result, any traveler always needs to ensure that they are able to check the current requirements depending on their passport before departure.

3. Mandatory Zanzibar Travel Insurance

All international visitors to Zanzibar are required to purchase mandatory inbound travel insurance issued by the Zanzibar Insurance Corporation (ZIC) before arrival. This requirement applies regardless of whether you already hold international travel insurance.

The Zanzibar travel insurance normally gives coverage to:

  • Hospitalization and medical crises.
  • Emergency evacuation and accidents.
  • Severe cases of repatriation

Failure to present valid Zanzibar-approved insurance may result in denial of entry.

4. Return or Onward Travel Ticket

Immigration officers may request proof of return or onward travel to confirm that the traveler does not intend to overstay the permitted period. This is usually a confirmed return or onward flight booking departure from Zanzibar or Tanzania within the authorized period of stay granted upon entry. This may be required to demonstrate that the traveler does not intend to overstay their authorized stay.

5. Proof of Accommodation

Travelers may be asked to provide proof of accommodation, such as:

  • A proven reservation at a hotel or resort.
  • A letter of invitation from a host residing in Zanzibar.

Your accommodation address and stay dates must be well indicated in the document.

6. Yellow Fever Vaccination Certificate (If Applicable)

A yellow fever vaccination certificate is required if you are arriving from, or have transited through (outside the airport transit area), a country classified as a Yellow Fever risk area. Direct arrivals of travelers who come out of non-risk countries are mostly exempt, although immigration officials might be checking on your history of travels.

7. Proof of Sufficient Funds

The immigration officers can request the travelers to show that they have enough financial support that will sustain them during their stay. This can be in the form of cash, bank statements, or valid credit cards.

Conclusion

Entry requirements for Zanzibar are subject to change and may be strictly enforced. Before traveling, a traveler must make sure to have all documents that are valid, correct, and easy to retrieve (printed or electronic).

By preparing these documents in advance, you will have a hassle-free experience of entry into Zanzibar and spend most of your time in the wonderful Zanzibar beaches, culture, and history without having to be held up unnecessarily.

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