Mozambique Reinstates Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) for 29 Visa-Exempt Countries
Mozambique has officially reinstated its Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) requirement for citizens of 29 visa-exempt countries, effective July 31, 2026. After successfully resolving months of technical issues, eligible travellers will once again need to secure an ETA before boarding flights to the country.
The ETA was initially introduced in April 2025 but was suspended just weeks later due to problems with the online application portal. Authorities have now confirmed that the upgraded digital system is fully operational and ready for use.
Who Needs a Mozambique ETA?
The Mozambique ETA is mandatory for citizens of 29 specific countries who previously enjoyed visa-free entry for short business and tourism stays. These countries include:
- Belgium, Denmark, Finland, France, Germany, Ireland, Italy, Netherlands, Norway, Portugal, Russia, Spain, Sweden, Switzerland, Ukraine, and the United Kingdom
- Canada and the United States
- China, Indonesia, Israel, Japan, Saudi Arabia, Singapore, South Korea, and the United Arab Emirates
- Côte d’Ivoire, Ghana, and Senegal
While these travellers are exempt from traditional visas, they must obtain an ETA at least 48 hours before their scheduled departure to Mozambique.
Mozambique ETA vs. eVisa: Understanding the Distinction
Mozambique streamlines its digital travel authorizations through a single online portal, offering two main options:
- Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA): Exclusively for the 29 visa-exempt countries. It allows for a single entry and a stay of up to 30 days, costing approximately US$48.
- Electronic Visa (eVisa): Required for travellers from all other nations, including India. eVisa options typically offer stays ranging from 30 to 90 days, depending on the specific visa type.
This dual system aligns with a growing global trend where countries maintain visa-free arrangements while implementing digital pre-travel checks to enhance border security and streamline entry procedures.
Mozambique’s Upgraded Digital Visa Platform
In February 2026, Mozambique launched a new cloud-based visa platform, developed with technical expertise from VFS Global. This advanced system replaces the previous one, which experienced technical glitches and led to the temporary suspension of the ETA.
Key features of this new platform include:
- A unified online portal for both ETA and eVisa applications.
- Accessibility for travellers from 183 different countries.
- Support for various visa categories, such as tourist, business, crew, sports, humanitarian, and oil and gas travel.
- Fully digital processing, directly linking travel authorizations to applicants’ passports.
Important Considerations Before Your Trip to Mozambique
To ensure a smooth journey, travellers planning to visit Mozambique should note the following crucial points:
- All ETA applications must be submitted and approved at least 48 hours before your scheduled departure.
- An approved ETA permits a stay of up to 30 days within a single entry.
- For stays exceeding 30 days, travellers must apply for the relevant eVisa category.
- Arrival in Mozambique without a valid ETA or eVisa could lead to denied entry by immigration authorities.
Guidance for Indian Travellers Visiting Mozambique
It is important for Indian passport holders to note that they 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 prior to their travel.
For those planning trips from major Indian cities like Mumbai, Delhi, Bengaluru, or Chennai, the existing procedure remains unchanged. An approved eVisa is a mandatory requirement before departure, and airlines will verify this travel authorization before boarding is permitted.
Travelobiz Perspective
We view the reintroduction of Mozambique’s ETA as a practical step towards normalizing travel procedures following a period of disruption. Our key advice for anyone planning a trip to Mozambique is to verify your specific travel authorization requirements (ETA or eVisa) well in advance. Airlines strictly enforce these regulations, and failing to secure the correct documentation will likely result in denied boarding.
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