Arrival & Visa
Preparing for your journey to this Tanzanian paradise is simple – just make sure you’re familiar with the key entry requirements before you go. To ensure a smooth start, review the necessary visa options and mandatory local insurance, as Zanzibar’s entry requirements vary depending on your travel purpose.
Step-by-Step Arrival Guide at Zanzibar Airport
Before reaching the visa counter, all visitors must show proof of the mandatory Zanzibar travel insurance (ZIC). The cost is approximately USD 44 and it's valid for up to 92 days. Your personal travel insurance does not replace this requirement. Learn more...
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Mandatory Travel Insurance
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Zanzibar Visa: eVisa or Visa on Arrival?
There are several options to enter Zanzibar depending on your travel purpose, but as a tourist, you typically have these two options:
eVisa (recommended): Apply online at least one week before departure. Once approved, proceed directly to passport control – no waiting at the visa counter.
Visa on Arrival: Fill out a short application form at the airport. A digital photo is taken on-site (no printed photo needed). Pay the fee at a separate counter – cash or credit card accepted.
Once your visa is confirmed, join the passport control queue to receive your official entry stamp. Make sure you have a passport valid for at least 6 months, your accommodation confirmation, and a return or onward ticket ready to present.
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Passport Control
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Baggage Claim & Customs
Collect your luggage from the carousel and proceed through customs. Nothing out of the ordinary – just standard airport procedure.
Tip: Purchasing in advance saves significant time and lets you skip the airport counter entirely.
Tip: Keep passport, visa, and insurance accessible throughout – staff may check at multiple points.
Quickcheck: What You Need to Enter Zanzibar
Valid passport (6+ months)
Zanzibar travel insurance (ZIC, ~USD 44)
Valid visa (eVisa or on arrival)
Return/onward ticket
Accommodation confirmation
Yellow fever certificate (if applicable)
Frequently asked questions
Do I need a separate visa for Zanzibar or is a Tanzania visa enough?
You do not need a separate visa for Zanzibar. One Tanzania visa – whether eVisa or visa on arrival – covers both the mainland and Zanzibar. Simply apply once through the official Tanzania Immigration portal.
Is travel insurance mandatory for Zanzibar – and what does it cost?
Yes, Zanzibar travel insurance is mandatory for all international visitors. The official ZIC insurance costs approximately USD 44 and is valid for 92 days. Your personal travel insurance does not count as a replacement. You can purchase it in advance at the official Zanzibar government portal.
Can I get a Zanzibar visa on arrival at the airport?
Yes. Zanzibar visa on arrival is available at Abeid Amani Karume International Airport for most nationalities at a cost of USD 50. However, applying for a Zanzibar eVisa at least one week in advance is strongly recommended to avoid queues of up to 90 minutes during peak season.
How long does immigration take at Zanzibar Airport?
With a pre-purchased eVisa and ZIC insurance, Zanzibar airport immigration typically takes 20–30 minutes. Without an eVisa, expect 60–90 minutes during busy travel periods such as July–August and December–January.
Can I pay the Zanzibar visa fee by credit card or do I need cash?
Credit card payment is accepted at the Zanzibar visa on arrival counter in most cases. However, it is strongly recommended to carry USD cash as a backup, as card terminals occasionally experience technical issues.