Mozambique Entry Requirements 2026 — International Travellers

Quick Answer: What You Need to Enter Mozambique

Passport validity: 6 months beyond your intended stay . Blank pages: At least 2 clean, unstamped pages for entry/exit stamps . Visa requirement: Citizens of 29 countries (including the US, UK, Canada, and most EU states) qualify for visa-free entry up to 30 days, but must register for an Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA) online before departure since 11 February 2026 . All other nationalities require an eVisa. Supporting documents: Proof of accommodation (hotel booking or invitation letter), return or onward flight ticket . Important: Airlines now check eTA/eVisa approval before boarding—arriving at the airport without pre-approval may result in being denied boarding .

Passport & Document Requirements

Passport Validity

Your passport must be valid for at least 6 months from the date you arrive in Mozambique . This is a hard requirement; passports expiring within 6 months will be rejected at immigration. The validity period is separate from the authorized length of stay on your visa—always check both dates carefully .

Blank Passport Pages

You must have at least 2 clean, unstamped visa pages available each time you enter Mozambique . This does not include endorsement pages. Ensure your passport has sufficient blank pages before traveling, as immigration officials will not process entry without them.

Children Under 18

If travelling with children under 18, additional documentation is required :

• Travelling with both parents: An unabridged birth certificate listing both parents .
• Travelling with one parent or alone: An unabridged birth certificate AND a notarized parental consent affidavit (not older than 3 months) signed by the absent parent(s), translated into Portuguese .

Keep these documents in printed form; digital copies alone are insufficient for border officials.

Visa & Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA) Requirements

Who Needs an eTA?

As of 11 February 2026, citizens of 29 countries—including the US, UK, Canada, Australia, and most EU member states—can enter Mozambique visa-free for tourism or business for up to 30 days . However, all these travellers must now obtain an Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA) online before departure . This is a significant change; previously, many of these nationalities could arrive without pre-approval.

The eTA is a simplified authorization distinct from a full eVisa. It is designed for short-term stays and must be approved before you board your flight .

Who Needs an eVisa?

Citizens of countries not listed on the 29 visa-exempt nations, or travellers intending to stay longer than 30 days, work, invest, or engage in humanitarian activities, must apply for an eVisa . The eVisa platform launched on 11 February 2026 and is the sole official portal for all visa applications .

How to Apply for eTA or eVisa

Visit the official Mozambique eVisa and eTA portal at evisa.gov.mz . The platform is powered by VFS Global and handles applications from 183 nationalities .

Step-by-step:

1. Navigate to evisa.gov.mz and create an account using a one-time password (OTP) sent to your email.
2. Select your visa category: eTA (tourism/business, up to 30 days), eVisa (tourism/business, up to 90 days), or specialized categories (investment, humanitarian, sports/culture).
3. Upload required documents (passport scan, photo, proof of accommodation, return flight ticket, and supporting documents depending on category).
4. Pay the applicable fee (eTA: 650 MZN, payable on arrival or online; eVisa fees vary by category) .
5. Receive approval via email and print or save your authorization for presentation at the border.

Processing time: The research does not specify official processing timelines for the new 2026 portal; confirm current timelines directly on evisa.gov.mz before applying.

Critical: Do NOT use third-party visa websites. Only apply through the official government portal (evisa.gov.mz) to avoid fraud, inflated fees, and application rejection .

eTA vs. eVisa: What's the Difference?

The eTA is a streamlined authorization for visa-exempt nationals making short-term visits (tourism or business, up to 30 days). The eVisa is a full visa for those who do not qualify for eTA, allowing longer stays (typically up to 90 days for tourism/business), multiple entries, and more complex travel purposes such as employment or investment .

Maximum Stay Duration

Tourism and business travellers (visa-exempt or on eVisa) may remain in Mozambique no more than 90 days (consecutive or interrupted) in any calendar year . If you exceed this period, you are liable to fines for each day of illegal residence . For stays longer than 30 days, immigration officials determine your authorized stay period at entry; trips exceeding 30 days likely require an extension approval from the provincial Direcção Nacional De Migração .

Required Supporting Documents at Entry

In addition to your passport and approved eTA/eVisa, you must have the following documents ready for inspection at the border , :

• Proof of accommodation: A confirmed hotel reservation, Airbnb booking confirmation, or a written invitation from your host in Mozambique with their contact details.
• Return or onward flight ticket: A confirmed booking showing your departure date from Mozambique (not a one-way ticket).
• Identification: Your valid passport (already mentioned, but critical).
• Supporting documentation for multi-country travel: If you are travelling through multiple African countries, print copies of all bookings and visas; digital copies alone may not be accepted .

Keep printed copies of all documents. Immigration officials may request supporting documentation, and relying on digital-only versions can delay or complicate entry .

Customs: What You Can & Cannot Bring

Restricted & Prohibited Items

Mozambique customs regulations prohibit or restrict the import of :

• Firearms and ammunition (strictly prohibited without prior authorization).
• Narcotics and controlled substances.
• Counterfeit goods and intellectual property violations.
• Protected wildlife products (ivory, endangered animal skins, etc.).

Personal Medication

Prescription medications in reasonable quantities for personal use are generally permitted, provided they are in original, labelled containers with a copy of your prescription or doctor's letter . Declare all medications to customs upon arrival. If you are carrying controlled medications (e.g., certain painkillers, ADHD medications), obtain a letter from your doctor and consider contacting the Mozambican embassy beforehand.

Currency & Money

There is no fixed limit on currency you can bring into Mozambique, but amounts exceeding USD 10,000 (or equivalent) should be declared to customs. Currency exchange services are available at major airports and banks in Maputo, Beira, and other cities .

Electronics & Drones

Personal electronics (laptops, cameras, phones) for private use are permitted. Drones are increasingly restricted in many African countries; Mozambique does not have published specific drone regulations in the research. Contact the Mozambican Civil Aviation Authority or your nearest embassy before bringing a drone. If you are planning a safari in Mozambique, confirm drone policies with your tour operator.

Temporary Import of Business Samples

Product samples with no commercial value can be imported duty-free. Samples with commercial value may be imported duty-free for up to 12 months. Samples for exhibitions can be imported temporarily but cannot be sold or removed without customs approval. Customs will require a guarantee equal to 10% of the duty payable, and goods must be re-exported within 180 days (extendable to 1 year) .

Arrival Process: Step-by-Step

Before You Depart

1. Check your eTA/eVisa status: Log into evisa.gov.mz using your application reference number to confirm approval. Print a copy or save the approval on your phone.
2. Gather all required documents: Passport, eTA/eVisa approval, proof of accommodation, return flight ticket, and any supporting documents (especially for children).
3. Inform your airline: Airlines are now responsible for verifying that passengers have valid eTA or eVisa before boarding. Arrive early to allow time for airline staff to check your authorization.
4. Confirm your flight: Reconfirm your return/onward flight 24 hours before departure to avoid immigration complications.

At the Airport

1. Immigration queue: Present your passport and approved eTA/eVisa (printed or digital) to the immigration officer.
2. Passport inspection: The officer will verify your passport validity (6+ months), blank pages, and visa authorization.
3. Supporting documents: Be prepared to show proof of accommodation and return flight ticket if requested.
4. Entry stamp: The officer will stamp your passport with an entry stamp and your authorized stay period (e.g., "Autorizado a permaneçer pelo período de 30 dias")—this is the maximum number of days you may remain .
5. Keep your receipt: Retain any receipt or document provided at the border; you may need it when exiting .

Mozambique's Major Airports of Entry

International flights typically arrive at one of the following airports :

• Maputo International Airport (FQMA): The primary international gateway, located in the capital.
• Beira International Airport (FQBR): Serves central Mozambique and regional flights.
• Nampula International Airport (FQNP): Serves northern Mozambique.
• Vilankulo International Airport (FQVL): Serves coastal and southern regions.

Smaller airports (Pemba, Quelimane, Lichinga, Tete) operate on restricted or private-flight-only bases .

Land Border Crossings

If entering by road from South Africa, Zimbabwe, Malawi, Tanzania, or Zambia, the same eTA/eVisa and passport requirements apply. However, do not attempt to enter by land without pre-approved eTA/eVisa authorization—border officials may refuse entry or demand you return to obtain authorization . Land crossings are slower and less equipped for on-arrival visa processing than airports.

Departure Requirements

Exit Documents

When departing Mozambique, ensure :

• Your passport is stamped: Immigration must exit-stamp your passport. Verify this before leaving the border; missing exit stamps can cause entry problems in other countries.
• You have not overstayed: If your authorized stay period has expired, you will be fined for each day of overstay. Check your entry stamp carefully and plan your departure accordingly .
• You have any border receipt from arrival: Some entry points issue receipts; keep these for exit inspection .
• All luggage is declared: Customs will inspect outbound baggage for restricted items (wildlife products, currency over USD 10,000, etc.).

Overstay Penalties

Overstaying your authorized visa period results in fines assessed per day of illegal residence . Contact the provincial Direcção Nacional De Migração if you need to extend your stay before your authorized period expires; extensions are handled locally and may incur administrative fees .

Security Considerations & Travel Advisories

The US State Department advises travellers to exercise increased caution in Mozambique and to be aware of their surroundings, especially in large public places . Specific security concerns include :

• Cabo Delgado Province: Increased government security checkpoints are in place. If you must travel to affected areas of Cabo Delgado, Niassa, and Nampula Provinces, consider hiring a professional security firm .
• General precautions: Avoid large public gatherings, remain vigilant in urban centres, and keep valuables secure.

For the latest travel advisories, check the US State Department's Mozambique travel advisory page .

Health & Vaccination Requirements

Mozambique does not require proof of any specific vaccination for entry, with one exception: if you are arriving from a country with endemic yellow fever, cholera, or smallpox, you may be required to show an International Certificate of Vaccination . However, the US CDC and WHO strongly recommend vaccinations for yellow fever, typhoid, hepatitis A/B, and routine immunizations before travelling to Mozambique. Consult your doctor at least 4–6 weeks before departure.

Dual Citizenship & Special Cases

Dual Mozambican Citizens

Mozambique recognizes dual citizenship . If you hold both Mozambican and another nationality (e.g., US/Mozambican), you may be able to use your Mozambican passport for entry, which may have different visa requirements. However, consular services from your other nation may be limited while you are in Mozambique. Clarify your status with your embassy before travelling.

Diplomatic & Official Passports

Holders of diplomatic, service, or official passports may have different entry requirements. Contact the Mozambican embassy in your country for guidance .

Practical Arrival Tips

• Arrive early: Allow extra time at check-in and immigration, especially if your airline needs to verify your eTA/eVisa.
• Print everything: Bring printed copies of your passport photo page, eTA/eVisa approval, hotel booking, and flight itinerary. Digital-only versions may not be accepted .
• Carry local currency: While credit cards are accepted at major hotels and airports, having Mozambican Metical (MZN) in cash is useful for small purchases and tips. ATMs are available in Maputo and major cities.
• Note entry details: Write down your authorized stay period from your entry stamp immediately after immigration (e.g., "30 days from 15 July 2026"). This prevents overstay disputes.
• Register with your embassy: If you are a US, UK, or Canadian citizen, consider registering with your embassy's Smart Traveller or equivalent system so they can contact you in an emergency.
• Photography at borders: Do not photograph military sites, government buildings, bridges, harbours, or airports. Seek permission before photographing official buildings or individuals .
• Carry ID at all times: Local authorities may request identification at any time. Carry a photocopy of your passport in a safe place and keep a digital backup .

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need a visa for Mozambique if I'm a US citizen?

US citizens do not require a traditional visa for stays up to 30 days for tourism or business, but must obtain an Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA) online before boarding since 11 February 2026 . For stays longer than 30 days, work, investment, or other purposes, a full eVisa is required. Apply at evisa.gov.mz.

How much does an eTA or eVisa cost?

The eTA fee is 650 MZN, payable on arrival in Mozambique or online at the time of application . eVisa fees vary by category and length of stay; confirm the exact fee for your category on the official portal (evisa.gov.mz) before applying. Fees are paid by credit card or accepted local currency.

How long does it take to get an eTA or eVisa approved?

The official processing timeline for the new eVisa portal (launched 11 February 2026) is not specified in the research. Confirm current processing times directly on evisa.gov.mz. Many sources recommend applying at least 3 days in advance; if the portal is unavailable, you can register on arrival at a port of entry, though this is not guaranteed .

Can I enter Mozambique without an eTA if I'm a visa-exempt citizen?

No. As of 11 February 2026, all citizens of visa-exempt countries must obtain eTA pre-approval before boarding their flight to Mozambique . Airlines are now responsible for verifying eTA/eVisa status, and you may be denied boarding without pre-approval .

What if my passport expires in less than 6 months?

Your passport must be valid for at least 6 months beyond your intended departure from Mozambique. If your passport expires within 6 months, renew it before applying for an eTA or eVisa. Immigration will reject nearly expired passports .

Can I apply for an eTA or eVisa on arrival in Mozambique?

Technically, visa on arrival is available at major airports (Maputo, Vilanculos, Pemba, Beira) and land borders . However, airlines may deny boarding without pre-approved eTA/eVisa authorization, making on-arrival application risky and impractical . It is strongly recommended to obtain your eTA or eVisa before travelling to avoid disruption.

What documents do I need to show at the border?

You must present: (1) a valid passport with 6+ months remaining and 2 blank pages; (2) approved eTA or eVisa (printed or digital); (3) proof of accommodation (hotel booking or invitation letter); (4) return or onward flight ticket; and (5) any supporting documents for children or specialized visa categories , .

How long can I stay in Mozambique?

Tourism and business travellers can stay up to 90 days (consecutive or interrupted) in any calendar year . Your entry stamp specifies your authorized stay period (e.g., 30 days). Do not exceed this period; overstaying results in daily fines .

Do children need their own passport and visa?

Yes. All children, including infants, require their own valid passport and eTA/eVisa (if required by their nationality). Additionally, children under 18 must have an unabridged birth certificate listing both parents, and if travelling with one parent or alone, a notarized parental consent affidavit in Portuguese .

What happens if I overstay my visa?

Overstaying your authorized stay period results in fines assessed per day of illegal residence . If you need to stay longer, apply for an extension through the provincial Direcção Nacional De Migração before your authorized period expires; extensions may incur administrative fees .

Can I bring a drone into Mozambique?

Mozambique does not have published specific drone import or use regulations in the official sources reviewed. Contact the Mozambican Civil Aviation Authority or your nearest embassy before bringing a drone. If planning a safari, confirm drone policies with your tour operator in advance.

Is travel insurance required to enter Mozambique?

Travel insurance is not a formal entry requirement, but it is strongly recommended. Mozambique's healthcare system is limited outside Maputo, and evacuation insurance is prudent. Check your policy covers medical evacuation and repatriation.

Last Checked & Verification

Last checked July 2026 — entry requirements, visa fees, processing procedures, and security advisories are subject to change. Always confirm requirements with the official Mozambique eVisa portal (evisa.gov.mz) and your nearest Mozambican embassy or consulate before travelling. This article is informational only and does not constitute legal advice.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need a visa for Mozambique if I'm a US citizen?

US citizens do not require a traditional visa for stays up to 30 days for tourism or business, but must obtain an Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA) online before boarding since 11 February 2026 . For stays longer than 30 days, work, investment, or other purposes, a full eVisa is required. Apply at evisa.gov.mz.

How much does an eTA or eVisa for Mozambique cost?

The eTA fee is 650 MZN, payable on arrival in Mozambique or online . eVisa fees vary by category and length of stay. Confirm the exact fee for your category on evisa.gov.mz before applying.

How long does it take to get an eTA or eVisa approved?

Official processing timelines for the new portal (launched 11 February 2026) are not specified in government sources. Confirm current timelines on evisa.gov.mz. Many sources recommend applying at least 3 days in advance.

Can I enter Mozambique without an eTA if I'm from a visa-exempt country?

No. Since 11 February 2026, all citizens of visa-exempt countries must obtain eTA pre-approval before boarding their flight . Airlines are now responsible for verifying eTA/eVisa status, and you may be denied boarding without pre-approval .

What is the passport validity requirement for Mozambique?

Your passport must be valid for at least 6 months beyond your intended departure from Mozambique . Nearly expired passports will be rejected at immigration.

Can I apply for a Mozambique visa on arrival?

Technically, visa on arrival is available at major airports and land borders . However, airlines may deny boarding without pre-approved eTA/eVisa authorization, making on-arrival application risky . It is strongly recommended to obtain your eTA or eVisa before travelling.

What documents do I need to show at the Mozambique border?

You must present: (1) a valid passport with 6+ months validity and 2 blank pages; (2) approved eTA or eVisa; (3) proof of accommodation (hotel booking or invitation letter); (4) return or onward flight ticket; and (5) supporting documents for children if applicable , .

How long can I stay in Mozambique as a tourist?

Tourism and business travellers can stay up to 90 days (consecutive or interrupted) in any calendar year . Your entry stamp specifies your authorized stay period (e.g., 30 days). Do not exceed this period; overstaying results in daily fines .

Do children need their own passport and visa for Mozambique?

Yes. All children, including infants, require their own valid passport and eTA/eVisa if required by their nationality. Children under 18 must also have an unabridged birth certificate and, if travelling with one parent or alone, a notarized parental consent affidavit in Portuguese .

What happens if I overstay my visa in Mozambique?

Overstaying your authorized stay period results in fines assessed per day of illegal residence . If you need to stay longer, apply for an extension through the provincial Direcção Nacional De Migração before your authorized period expires.

Is travel insurance required to enter Mozambique?

Travel insurance is not a formal entry requirement but is strongly recommended, as healthcare is limited outside Maputo. Evacuation insurance is prudent for safari and remote travel.

Which countries are exempt from needing a Mozambique visa?

Citizens of 29 countries—including the US, UK, Canada, Australia, and most EU member states—can enter visa-free for up to 30 days, but must obtain an eTA before boarding since February 2026 . Check evisa.gov.mz to confirm your nationality's status.