In a significant development, Tanzania has decided to lift the COVID-19 proof of vaccination requirement, signaling a progressive move towards normalcy amid the ongoing pandemic. The decision reflects a shift in the government’s approach and highlights the country’s confidence in its efforts to control the spread of the virus. This article delves into the details of Tanzania’s decision, its potential impact, and the broader implications for public health and the nation’s economy. For further clarification, you can read their statement below.
LAST UPDATED: MONDAY JUNE 5, 2023
The Administration will end the COVID-19 vaccine requirements for international air travelers at the end of the day on May 11, the same day that the COVID-19 public health emergency ends. This means starting May 12, noncitizen nonimmigrant air passengers will no longer need to show proof of being fully vaccinated with an accepted COVID-19 vaccine to board a flight to the United States. CDC’s Amended Order Implementing Presidential Proclamation on Safe Resumption of Global Travel During the COVID-19 Pandemic will no longer be in effect when the Presidential Proclamation Advancing the Safe Resumption of Global Travel During the COVID-19 Pandemic is revoked.
Entry and Exit Requirements for Tanzania
Are there COVID-related entry requirements for U.S. citizens?
Yes
- All travelers entering or transiting mainland Tanzania or Zanzibar are advised to be fully vaccinated against COVID-19.
- Travelers entering or transiting mainland Tanzania or Zanzibar are not required to present a COVID-19 vaccination certificate or test certificate unless required by their airline, transit destination, or final destination.
- There are, however, reports of some travelers being asked to provide evidence of vaccination upon arrival, or a negative COVID-19 test if not vaccinated.
- Please see additional information on testing and health screening procedures below.
The Tanzania Ministry of Health released “Travel Advisory #12 ” effective January 12, 2023, with updated entry and exit requirements for travelers to mainland Tanzania.
The Zanzibar Ministry of Health released “Travel Advisory #15” effective February 1, 2023, with updated entry and exit requirements for travelers to Zanzibar.
Is a negative COVID-19 test (PCR and/or serology) required for entry?
No. However, for surveillance purposes, Port Health Officers may perform a COVID-19 Rapid Antigen Test free of charge for randomly selected travelers upon arrival.
Are health screening procedures in place at airports and other ports of entry?
Yes
- Enhanced screenings are in place on arrival. Anyone found to be symptomatic will be immediately isolated and handled per local health protocols.
- Travelers may be subject to random testing, free of charge, on arrival.
Quarantine Information
Are U.S. citizens required to quarantine?
No
There is no quarantine requirement except for travelers who test positive upon arrival.
Travelers who test positive will be advised to self-isolate in their accommodation.
COVID-19 Testing
PCR and antigen tests are available for U.S. citizens.
Rapid antigen tests are available for departing travelers on a walk-in basis at international airports, including Terminal 3 of the Julius Nyerere International Airport in Dar es Salaam, Kilimanjaro International Airport, and Abeid Amani Karume International Airport in Zanzibar. Travelers planning to use an airport rapid test should arrive multiple hours early and contact the airport for additional information. The cost for a rapid test is $10 in mainland Tanzania and $25 in Zanzibar if less than 24 hours before departure. The cost for a RT-PCR test is $50 in mainland Tanzania and $80 in Zanzibar, but the cost can vary depending on where the test is done. Travelers taking an airport rapid test from the mainland should register through https://afyamsafiri.moh.go.tz and list both their origin and destination as Tanzania in the system.
- Julius Nyerere International Airport (Dar es Salaam)
https://www.jnia.go.tz/
+255 22 284 2402 / +255 22 284 2403
info@jnia.go.tz - Kilimanjaro International Airport
https://www.kilimanjaroairport.go.tz/
+255 27 255 4252
kadco@go.tz - Abeid Amani Karume International Airport (Zanzibar)
https://www.zaa.go.tz/index
+255 24 223 3674
info@zaa.go.tz
U.S. citizens can book a COVID-19 PCR test through the Tanzanian Ministry of Health (MoH) website: https://pimacovid.moh.go.tz/#/booking. Travelers in Zanzibar can book through the Zanzibar MoH website: http://zanzibarcovidtesting.co.tz .
The MoH states that you will receive a text message with a link to your COVID-19 certificate when your results are ready.
COVID-19 Vaccine Information:
Are vaccines available in Tanzania for U.S. citizens to receive?
Yes
Tanzanian citizens and non-citizen residents, ages 18 and over are eligible for vaccination.
Visit the FDA’s website to learn more about FDA-approved vaccines in the United States.
Local Resources:
Final Thoughts
Tanzania’s decision to lift the COVID-19 proof of vaccination requirement is a significant step towards normalcy, signaling the government’s confidence in its efforts to control the virus. By striking a balance between public health and economic recovery, the country aims to revitalize its tourism industry and strengthen international collaborations. However, it is crucial for Tanzania to remain vigilant, adapt to the evolving situation, and ensure the continued implementation of preventive measures. As the world grapples with the pandemic, Tanzania’s decision can serve as a case study for finding the right balance between mitigating public health risks and supporting economic growth.