Mozambique Visa for Canadian Citizens 2026

Do Canadian Citizens Need a Visa for Mozambique?

No, Canadian citizens do not need a traditional visa to enter Mozambique for tourism or business stays of up to 30 days. However, as of 11 February 2026, the Mozambican government now requires Canadian passport holders to obtain an Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) before departure—even though Canada remains in the visa-exempt category. The ETA is a simplified digital authorization, not a full visa, and must be approved at least 48 hours before you travel.

If you plan to stay longer than 30 days, visit by private invitation, work, study, or invest in Mozambique, you will need to apply for a full eVisa instead.

Visa Types: Which One Do You Need?

Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) – For Most Canadian Tourists

The ETA is the simplest option for Canadian citizens visiting for tourism or short business trips (up to 30 days). You apply online at the official Mozambique eVisa portal (evisa.gov.mz), and the authorization is linked digitally to your passport. The ETA is not a physical stamp—it exists only in Mozambique's immigration database. The portal recommends applying at least 48 hours before departure, though standard processing typically takes 5–15 business days.

Full eVisa – For Extended or Special-Purpose Travel

Canadian citizens who need to stay longer than 30 days or travel for purposes other than tourism and business must apply for a full electronic visa (eVisa). eVisa categories include:

• Tourist eVisa: Valid for 30, 60, or 90 days; multiple entry options available
• Business eVisa: For commercial activities and corporate visits
• Visitor eVisa: Required when staying with a Mozambique citizen or resident (requires notarized letter of support from host)
• Work, Student, and Residency Visas: For employment, education, or permanent residence
• Investment, Crew, Humanitarian, and Sports/Cultural Activity eVisas: For specialized travel purposes

Full eVisas are processed through the same portal and typically take 10–15 business days for standard processing.

Visa on Arrival

Visa on arrival remains available at major airports (Maputo, Vilanculos, Pemba, Beira) and key land borders, though the government recommends obtaining an ETA or eVisa in advance. If you arrive without pre-approval, immigration may deny entry or process you more slowly.

Passport & Entry Requirements

Before applying for your ETA or eVisa, ensure your Canadian passport meets these requirements:

• Validity: Your passport must be valid for at least 6 months beyond your intended departure date from Mozambique.
• Blank pages: You need a minimum of 2 blank pages for entry and exit stamps. Immigration may refuse entry if you have fewer blank pages.
• Condition: Your passport must not be reported as lost or stolen.

When you arrive in Mozambique, ensure immigration properly stamps your passport and visa. Failure to obtain a stamp may result in fines when exiting the country.

Step-by-Step ETA Application Guide

The online ETA process is straightforward and can be completed in 15–20 minutes on the official portal.

Step 1: Visit the Official Portal

Go to evisa.gov.mz (the official Mozambique eVisa portal operated by VFS Global as of 11 February 2026). The portal is fully responsive and works on mobile, tablet, and desktop devices.

Step 2: Select Your Visa Type

Choose "Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA)" if you are a Canadian citizen visiting for tourism or business for up to 30 days. If you need a longer stay or different visa category, select "eVisa" and choose the appropriate type (Tourist, Business, Visitor, etc.).

Step 3: Upload Required Documents

Prepare and upload the following documents in digital form:

• Passport copy: A clear scan or photo of your passport's biographical page (the page with your photo, name, and passport number)
• Passport-sized photo: A recent colour photograph (35mm × 45mm, white background, taken within the last 6 months). The portal includes an integrated photo editor to ensure correct sizing. Common rejection reasons include: glasses, coloured background, or incorrect dimensions.
• Proof of accommodation: A confirmed hotel reservation or notarized invitation letter from a Mozambique resident or citizen
• Return or onward flight ticket: Proof of your departure from Mozambique (e-ticket or booking confirmation)
• Proof of financial means: Recent bank statements or credit card statements demonstrating sufficient funds for your stay
• Travel itinerary: Dates of arrival and departure, provinces/districts where you will stay, and specific addresses

The system features automated data extraction from your passport scan, which can speed up the process.

Step 4: Complete Application Details

Fill in your full contact information, travel dates, mode of transportation (flight number, vessel name, or vehicle details), and the specific address where you will be staying in Mozambique. Double-check all entries for accuracy before submission.

Step 5: Secure Payment

Pay the non-refundable application fee using your credit card, debit card, or other accepted international payment method. Payment must be completed before your application is submitted. The portal uses SSL encryption for secure transactions.

Step 6: Receive Your ETA Approval

Once approved, you will receive a PDF confirmation by email. Print this document and carry it with your passport—some immigration officials may request a physical copy, even though the ETA is digitally linked to your passport. Save a digital backup on your phone as well.

ETA & eVisa Fees for Canadian Citizens

Mozambique's official portal charges the following fees (in USD):

Visa Type	Processing Time	Fee (USD)
ETA (Electronic Travel Authorization)	Standard: 10–15 business days	$48
Tourist eVisa (30 days)	Standard: 10–15 business days	Confirm on portal
Tourist eVisa (60 days)	Standard: 10–15 business days	Confirm on portal
Tourist eVisa (90 days)	Standard: 10–15 business days	Confirm on portal
eVisa Rush Processing	7–10 business days	+$59
eVisa Super Rush Processing	5–7 business days	+$99

Important: The ETA registration must be completed online at least 48 hours before departure. Additionally, a separate Visa on Arrival government fee may be payable upon arrival at your port of entry, as required by Mozambique's immigration authorities. Confirm the current fee on the official portal before travelling. All fees are non-refundable.

Processing Times & Visa Validity

Official Processing Times

According to Mozambique's official eVisa portal (evisa.gov.mz):

• Standard Processing: Approximately 5 business days after you submit your application and complete payment (though third-party sources cite 10–15 business days for full processing)
• ETA Processing: Apply at least 48 hours before your planned departure to ensure approval in time
• Rush Processing: 7–10 business days (additional $59 fee)
• Super Rush Processing: 5–7 business days (additional $99 fee)

Canadian citizens should apply for their ETA at least 8 days before departure to allow time for processing and any document corrections.

Visa Validity & Entry Window

Once approved, your ETA or eVisa has a limited validity period:

• Validity window: You must enter Mozambique within 60 days of the visa issuance date
• Stay duration: Your 30-day (or 60/90-day for eVisa) permission to stay begins on your date of arrival, not the date of approval
• Single vs. multiple entry: Standard ETA is typically single-entry; eVisas may offer multiple-entry options depending on the type

Tracking Your Application

You can track your application status online using the reference number provided when you applied:

1. Go to evisa.gov.mz and select "Check Status"
2. Enter your application reference number (and sometimes your email or passport number)
3. The system will display your status: Under Review, Approved, or Rejected

What Happens at Immigration on Arrival

When you arrive in Mozambique, immigration officials will:

• Ask to see your Canadian passport and your printed ETA confirmation (or eVisa approval)
• Request proof of accommodation (hotel reservation or notarized invitation letter from your host)
• Ask for a return or onward flight ticket
• Inquire about the purpose and duration of your stay
• Inspect your passport for the required 2+ blank pages
• Stamp your passport with an entry stamp and visa stamp—ensure this is done clearly and legibly

Keep your immigration receipt and entry stamp as proof. You may need to show them when exiting Mozambique. If you overstay your authorized visa period, you may be fined for each day you illegally reside in Mozambique.

Traveling with Children Under 18

If you are entering Mozambique with a child under 18, you must present:

• An unabridged birth certificate listing both parents, OR
• If the child travels with only one parent or without either parent: a notarized parental consent affidavit (not older than 3 months)

Transit & Layovers in Mozambique

If you are transiting through Mozambique to reach another country, you may need a transit visa depending on your nationality and the duration of your layover. Confirm your specific transit requirements on evisa.gov.mz before booking your flight.

Extending Your Stay & Overstay Penalties

Visa Extensions

Canadian citizens who are in Mozambique under the visa-exempt 30-day allowance may request a one-time 30-day extension at immigration offices inside Mozambique. To apply for an extension, you will need:

• A valid Canadian passport
• Proof of accommodation (hotel reservation or letter from your host)
• Evidence of sufficient funds for the extended stay

Extensions are granted at the discretion of immigration officers and must be applied for before your initial 30-day period expires. There is no guarantee of approval.

Overstay Penalties

If you remain in Mozambique beyond your authorized visa period, you will be fined for each day of illegal residence. These fines can be substantial and may result in deportation, passport confiscation, or a ban on re-entry. Always depart before your authorized stay expires or apply for an extension in advance.

Common Mistakes & Visa Rejection Reasons

Photo Non-Compliance

The most common reason Canadian citizens face ETA or eVisa rejection is passport photo non-compliance. Mozambique requires:

• White background only (no coloured or patterned backgrounds)
• Dimensions: exactly 35mm × 45mm
• Colour photograph (not black and white)
• Taken within the last 6 months
• No glasses, hats, or head coverings (unless for religious reasons)
• Neutral facial expression, looking directly at the camera

Use the integrated photo editor on evisa.gov.mz to validate your photo before submission.

Missing or Incorrect Documents

If your application is found to have missing or incorrect documents, the process works as follows:

• You will receive a preliminary rejection email clearly stating which documents are missing or incorrect
• You are given 5 calendar days from the date of that email to upload the required or corrected documents through the application system
• If you successfully upload the requested documents within these 5 days, your application will continue to be processed
• If you fail to upload the documents within the 5-day window, your application will be automatically rejected

Insufficient Proof of Funds

Immigration may reject applications that lack clear evidence of financial means. Provide recent bank statements (ideally from the last month) showing a healthy account balance appropriate for your stay duration.

Passport Validity Issues

Ensure your Canadian passport is valid for at least 6 months beyond your intended departure date from Mozambique. Passports expiring within 6 months will result in rejection.

Unclear or Missing Accommodation Details

Provide a confirmed hotel reservation or a formal, notarized letter from your Mozambique host. Vague or unconfirmed addresses may lead to rejection.

Related Entry & Health Information

Before your trip, also review Mozambique Entry Requirements 2026 for International Travellers for comprehensive information on customs, currency, and other arrival procedures. If you are planning a safari, check Mozambique National Park Fees & Availability 2026 to understand park entry costs and booking timelines. You can compare and book safari packages on SafariFind to find the best fit for your budget and interests.

Frequently Asked Questions

(See FAQ section below.)

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Last checked July 2026 — always confirm with official sources before travelling. Visa requirements, fees, and processing times can change. Before your trip, verify the current ETA process and fees on evisa.gov.mz (the official Mozambique eVisa portal) and on Canada's official travel advice for Mozambique.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do Canadian citizens need a visa for Mozambique?

No, Canadian citizens do not need a traditional visa for tourism or business stays of up to 30 days. However, as of 11 February 2026, you must obtain an Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) before departure. The ETA is a simplified digital authorization that must be approved at least 48 hours before you travel.

What is the difference between an ETA and an eVisa?

An ETA (Electronic Travel Authorization) is a pre-travel permission for visa-exempt nationals visiting for tourism or business up to 30 days. An eVisa is a full electronic visa for longer stays, work, study, or special purposes (investment, humanitarian work, etc.). Both are applied for online, but eVisas offer more flexibility in duration and purpose.

How much does a Mozambique ETA cost for Canadian citizens?

The ETA costs approximately $48 USD. Additionally, a separate Visa on Arrival government fee may be payable upon arrival at your port of entry. Confirm the current fee on evisa.gov.mz before travelling. All fees are non-refundable.

How long does it take to get a Mozambique ETA?

Standard processing takes approximately 5–15 business days after you submit your application and complete payment. The portal recommends applying at least 48 hours before departure, though applying 8+ days in advance is safer to allow time for corrections. Rush processing (7–10 days) and Super Rush (5–7 days) options are available for an additional fee.

What documents do I need to apply for a Mozambique ETA as a Canadian citizen?

You need: a valid Canadian passport (6+ months validity), a passport-sized colour photo (35mm × 45mm, white background, taken within 6 months), proof of accommodation (hotel reservation or notarized invitation), a return or onward flight ticket, proof of financial means (bank statements), and your travel itinerary (dates, addresses, and transportation details).

Can I get a Mozambique visa on arrival?

Yes, visa on arrival is available at major airports (Maputo, Vilanculos, Pemba, Beira) and key land borders. However, the Mozambican government recommends obtaining an ETA or eVisa in advance to avoid delays or potential denial of entry.

How long is my Mozambique ETA valid for?

Your ETA must be used within 60 days of issuance. Your 30-day permission to stay begins on your date of arrival in Mozambique, not on the date of approval. The ETA is typically single-entry, meaning you can enter Mozambique once during the validity window.

What is the minimum passport validity required for Mozambique?

Your Canadian passport must be valid for at least 6 months beyond your intended departure date from Mozambique. You also need a minimum of 2 blank pages for entry and exit stamps.

Can I extend my stay in Mozambique?

Yes, Canadian citizens who are in Mozambique under the visa-exempt 30-day allowance may request a one-time 30-day extension at immigration offices inside Mozambique. Extensions are granted at the discretion of immigration officers and require proof of accommodation and sufficient funds. Apply before your initial period expires.

What happens if I overstay my visa in Mozambique?

If you remain in Mozambique beyond your authorized visa period, you will be fined for each day of illegal residence. Overstays can result in substantial fines, deportation, passport confiscation, or a ban on re-entry. Always depart before your authorized stay expires.

Why was my Mozambique ETA or eVisa application rejected?

The most common rejection reasons are: passport photo non-compliance (wrong background, incorrect dimensions, glasses, or poor quality), missing or incorrect documents, insufficient proof of funds, passport expiring within 6 months, or unclear accommodation details. If rejected, you have 5 calendar days to submit corrected documents before automatic final rejection.

Do I need a visa to transit through Mozambique?

Transit visa requirements depend on your nationality, the duration of your layover, and your onward destination. Confirm your specific transit requirements on evisa.gov.mz or contact the Mozambique embassy before booking your flight.