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

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

The ETA was first introduced in April 2025 but was suspended just weeks later due to problems with the online application portal. Authorities confirm that the new, stable system is fully operational and ready for use.

Mozambique ETA Eligibility: Who Needs to Apply?

The ETA applies exclusively to citizens of 29 countries that enjoy visa-free entry for short business and tourism visits. 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 need a traditional visa, they must obtain an ETA at least 48 hours before departure to Mozambique.

Mozambique ETA vs. eVisa: Understanding the Differences

Mozambique now operates both its ETA and eVisa systems through a single, unified online portal. Understanding the distinction is crucial for your travel planning:

  • Electronic Travel Authorization (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 ETA costs approximately US$48.
  • Electronic Visa (eVisa): Required for travelers from all other countries, including India. Depending on the visa type, stays of 30 to 90 days are available.

This approach reflects a growing global trend where countries maintain visa-free access but implement digital pre-travel checks to strengthen border security and streamline entry processes.

Mozambique’s New Digital Visa Platform

Mozambique rolled out a new cloud-based visa platform in February 2026, developed with technical support from VFS Global. This system replaces the earlier one that led to the ETA suspension and serves as the central hub for all digital travel authorizations.

The new platform offers:

  • A single online portal for both ETA and eVisa applications.
  • Accessibility for travelers from 183 countries worldwide.
  • Multiple visa categories, including tourist, business, crew, sports, humanitarian, and oil and gas travel.
  • Digital processing linked directly to travelers’ passports.

Essential Travel Advice Before Visiting Mozambique

Travellers heading to Mozambique should keep these important points in mind to ensure a hassle-free journey:

  • ETA applications must be submitted at least 48 hours before your departure.
  • ETA holders are permitted to stay for up to 30 days on a single entry.
  • If your intended stay is longer than 30 days, you must apply for an appropriate eVisa instead of an ETA.
  • Arriving in Mozambique without the required ETA or eVisa may result in denied entry by immigration authorities.

Mozambique Visa Requirements for Indian Travellers

Indian passport holders are not eligible for Mozambique’s ETA. They must continue to apply for a Mozambique eVisa before travel through the country’s new digital platform.

For Indians planning trips from major hubs such as Mumbai, Delhi, Bengaluru, or Chennai, nothing changes. An approved eVisa remains mandatory before departure, and airlines are expected to verify travel authorization before boarding.

Travel Advice

The restoration of Mozambique’s ETA system signifies a practical return to normal procedures after months of disruption. If you’re traveling to Mozambique, it is crucial to check your eligibility and secure the necessary travel authorization well in advance, as airlines are unlikely to overlook missing documentation.

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