Mozambique Brings Back Mandatory ETA for Visa-Free Travellers After Portal Fix

Mozambique has reinstated its Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) requirement for visitors from 29 visa-exempt countries, effective July 31, 2026. After months of technical challenges, the system is now fully operational, meaning eligible travelers must once again secure a Mozambique ETA before boarding their flight.

The initial ETA introduction in April 2025 faced a swift suspension due to issues with its online application portal. Authorities confirm that the upgraded platform is stable and ready for use.

Who Needs to Apply for the Mozambique ETA?

The Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) is specifically for citizens of 29 countries who previously enjoyed visa-free entry for short business and tourism trips to Mozambique. These countries include:

  • European Nations: Belgium, Denmark, Finland, France, Germany, Ireland, Italy, Netherlands, Norway, Portugal, Russia, Spain, Sweden, Switzerland, Ukraine, and the United Kingdom.
  • North America: Canada and the United States.
  • Asia & Middle East: China, Indonesia, Israel, Japan, Saudi Arabia, Singapore, South Korea, and the United Arab Emirates.
  • Africa: Côte d’Ivoire, Ghana, and Senegal.

While these travelers are exempt from a traditional visa, they are now required to obtain an ETA at least 48 hours before their scheduled departure to Mozambique.

Mozambique ETA vs. eVisa: Understanding the Requirements

Mozambique has streamlined its travel authorization process, operating both the ETA and eVisa systems through a unified online portal. It’s crucial for travelers to understand which applies to them:

  • ETA: This is for citizens of the 29 specified visa-exempt countries. It allows for a single entry and a stay of up to 30 days, costing approximately US$48.
  • eVisa: Required for travelers from all other countries, including India. eVisa options offer varying lengths of stay, typically from 30 to 90 days, depending on the visa category.

This dual system aligns with a growing global trend where nations enhance border security through digital pre-travel screenings while maintaining visa-free arrangements for select countries.

Mozambique’s New Digital Visa Platform: Enhanced Accessibility

In February 2026, Mozambique launched an advanced cloud-based visa platform, developed with technical assistance from VFS Global. This new system replaces the previous one, which caused the initial ETA suspension, and is designed for reliability and efficiency.

Key features of this upgraded platform include:

  • A consolidated online portal for both ETA and eVisa applications.
  • Expanded accessibility, catering to travelers from 183 countries worldwide.
  • A comprehensive range of visa categories, such as tourist, business, crew, sports, humanitarian, and specialized oil and gas travel visas.
  • Fully digital processing, directly linking approved travel authorizations to applicants’ passports.

Essential Information Before Traveling to Mozambique

For all travelers planning a trip to Mozambique, it’s crucial to be aware of these important points:

  • All ETA applications must be completed and submitted at least 48 hours prior to your departure.
  • An approved ETA grants a single entry and permits a stay of up to 30 days in Mozambique.
  • If your intended stay exceeds 30 days, you must apply for the relevant Mozambique eVisa.
  • Failure to arrive with the necessary ETA or eVisa may lead to denied entry into the country.

Important Update for Indian Travellers Planning a Trip to Mozambique

It is important to note that Indian passport holders are not eligible for Mozambique’s Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA). Instead, Indian citizens must continue to apply for a Mozambique eVisa through the country’s new digital platform before their travel.

For Indian travelers departing from major hubs like Mumbai, Delhi, Bengaluru, or Chennai, the process remains unchanged. A pre-approved eVisa is a mandatory requirement before departure, and airlines will verify this authorization prior to boarding.

Travelobiz Insight: Plan Your Mozambique Trip Wisely

This reintroduction of the ETA marks a return to standard procedures after a period of technical disruption. For all travelers heading to Mozambique, we strongly advise checking your specific eligibility and securing the required travel authorization (ETA or eVisa) well in advance, as airlines will rigorously check for valid documentation before departure.

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