British travellers entering mainland Tanzania have been required to buy government-designated inbound insurance since October 1, 2026, even if they already hold their own policy. The standard premium is US$44, with cover lasting up to 92 days, and GOV.UK warns that visitors without the required insurance may be refused entry.
The change in Tanzania highlights why Brits visiting countries including Georgia, Qatar and Seychelles should check exactly what cover is required and what documents they must carry.
Insurance rules by destination
Those arriving on the Tanzanian mainland should use the National Insurance Corporation, while visitors entering through Zanzibar use the Zanzibar Insurance Corporation. Travellers visiting both only need the prescribed insurance for their first port of entry, rather than buying another policy for the second destination.
In Georgia, tourists have needed health and accident insurance providing at least 30,000 Georgian lari of cover since January 2026. It must cover the entire stay, including arrival and departure dates, with proof available in English or Georgian, on paper or electronically.
In Qatar, visitors staying for more than 30 days need health insurance meeting Ministry of Public Health requirements. The standard visitor policy costs 50 Qatari riyals per person per month. Approved international policies can qualify, but must meet the ministry's conditions, and travellers relying on them must carry paper proof of cover.
Seychelles requires valid travel insurance with medical coverage for the whole stay. GOV.UK says visitors may be asked to show evidence that potential healthcare costs are covered when they arrive.
Expert advice for travellers
Patrick Baxter, health insurance expert at My Health Protected, warned: “A policy described as ‘worldwide’ does not automatically satisfy every country’s entry rules. Some destinations require insurance from a designated provider, while others specify minimum medical cover or ask you to produce particular documents. Simply having a policy number may not be enough.”
Baxter said: “Before buying extra insurance, ask your existing insurer whether your cover meets the destination’s requirements. Request a document showing who is insured, where the cover applies, the medical limit, and the dates. That can help you avoid both unnecessary spending and problems at check-in.”
He added: “Entry requirements can change between booking and departure, even for somewhere you have visited before. Check the Foreign Office’s destination advice when planning your trip and again shortly before travelling. Discovering a missing requirement at check-in could leave you stuck at the airport trying to arrange cover while your flight is boarding.”
Baxter concluded: “Keep your documents accessible offline and carry printed copies where required. If you must buy a local policy, check what it covers before changing your existing insurance. You still need protection suited to your medical conditions, planned activities, and the cost of getting you home if something goes wrong.”
