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

Mozambique ETA: Electronic Travel Authorization Restored for 29 Visa-Exempt Countries

Mozambique has officially reinstated its Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) requirement for travelers from 29 visa-exempt countries. After overcoming several months of technical issues, the online system is now fully operational. From July 31, 2026, eligible visitors will once again need to secure an ETA before boarding their flight to Mozambique.

The ETA requirement was initially introduced in April 2025 but faced a temporary suspension just weeks later due to problems with the online application portal. Authorities confirm that the upgraded system provides a smooth and reliable application process.

Who Must Apply for the Mozambique ETA?

The ETA is mandatory for citizens of 29 specific countries who previously enjoyed visa-free entry for short business and tourism trips. These include travelers from:

  • 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 travelers no longer require a traditional visa, they must obtain an ETA at least 48 hours before departure to Mozambique.

ETA vs eVisa: Understanding the Difference for Mozambique Travel

Mozambique now manages both its ETA and eVisa systems through a single, unified online portal:

  • ETA: Designed for travelers from the 29 visa-exempt countries. It is valid for a single entry and permits a stay of up to 30 days. The cost is approximately US$48.
  • eVisa: Required for travelers from all other countries, including India. Depending on the specific visa type, options are available for stays ranging from 30 to 90 days.

This dual system reflects a growing global trend, where many countries maintain visa-free access while implementing digital pre-travel checks to enhance border security and streamline entry procedures.

Mozambique’s New Digital Visa Platform

Mozambique launched its advanced cloud-based visa platform in February 2026, with technical expertise provided by VFS Global. This new system replaces the previous version that caused the initial ETA suspension, ensuring a more robust and efficient process.

Key features of the platform include:

  • A single, integrated portal for both ETA and eVisa applications
  • Accessibility for travelers from 183 countries worldwide
  • Support for multiple visa categories, such as tourist, business, crew, sports, humanitarian, and oil and gas travel
  • Digital processing directly linked to travelers’ passports for enhanced security and convenience

Before You Travel to Mozambique: Essential Points

Travelers planning a trip to Mozambique should take note of these critical requirements:

  • ETA applications must be submitted a minimum of 48 hours before your scheduled departure.
  • ETA holders are permitted a stay of up to 30 days on a single entry.
  • If you plan to stay longer than 30 days, you must apply for an appropriate eVisa instead of an ETA.
  • Arriving in Mozambique without the mandatory ETA or eVisa may lead to denied entry.

What This Means for Indian Travellers Planning a Trip to Mozambique

Indian passport holders are not eligible for Mozambique’s Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA). They must continue to apply for a Mozambique eVisa through the country’s new digital platform before their journey.

For Indian travelers departing from major hubs like Mumbai, Delhi, Bengaluru, or Chennai, the existing visa requirements remain unchanged. An approved eVisa is still a mandatory document before departure, and airlines are expected to verify this travel authorization prior to boarding.

Travelobiz Take on Mozambique’s Restored ETA

We view the restoration of Mozambique’s ETA as a positive and practical return to standard travel procedures after a period of disruption. If you are planning to travel to Mozambique, it is crucial to check your eligibility and apply for the correct travel authorization well in advance, as airlines are unlikely to permit boarding without the required documentation.

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