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

Mozambique has officially reinstated its Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) requirement for visitors from 29 visa-exempt countries. Following the resolution of extensive technical issues, travellers eligible for visa-free entry will once again need to secure an ETA before their trip. This mandate becomes effective from July 31, 2026, requiring all qualifying passengers to obtain authorization prior to boarding their flight to Mozambique.

The ETA system was initially launched in April 2025 but faced a temporary suspension just weeks later due to problems with its online application portal. Authorities have now confirmed that the upgraded digital platform is fully operational, ensuring a smooth application process for future travellers.

Who Must Apply for the Mozambique ETA?

The Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) is specifically for citizens of 29 countries that currently enjoy visa-free entry for short business and tourism visits to Mozambique. 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 travellers from these nations do not require a traditional visa, it is crucial to note that they must obtain an ETA at least 48 hours before their scheduled departure.

Mozambique ETA vs. eVisa: Understanding the Difference

Mozambique now streamlines both its ETA and eVisa applications through a unified online portal. It’s important for travellers to understand which document applies to their nationality:

  • Mozambique ETA: This is for travellers from the 29 visa-exempt countries. It is valid for a single entry and permits a stay of up to 30 days. The estimated cost for an ETA is approximately US$48.
  • Mozambique eVisa: Required for travellers from all other countries, including India. eVisa options are available for stays ranging from 30 to 90 days, depending on the visa category.

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

Mozambique’s Advanced 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 platform that caused the initial ETA suspension, promising enhanced stability and efficiency.

Key features of Mozambique’s new digital visa platform include:

  • A single, integrated portal for both ETA and eVisa applications.
  • Accessibility for travellers from 183 countries worldwide.
  • Support for multiple visa categories, covering tourist, business, crew, sports, humanitarian, and oil and gas travel.
  • Streamlined digital processing directly linked to travellers’ passports.

Essential Information Before You Travel to Mozambique

To ensure a smooth journey, travellers planning a trip to Mozambique should be aware of these critical requirements:

  • All ETA applications must be submitted a minimum of 48 hours before your departure.
  • Holders of an approved ETA are granted permission for a single entry and a stay of up to 30 days.
  • If you intend to stay longer than 30 days, you must apply for the appropriate Mozambique eVisa.
  • Arriving in Mozambique without the mandatory ETA or eVisa may lead to denied entry by immigration authorities.

What This Means for Indian Travellers to Mozambique

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

For Indian citizens planning trips from major hubs like Mumbai, Delhi, Bengaluru, or Chennai, the process remains unchanged. An approved eVisa is a mandatory requirement prior to departure, and airlines are expected to verify this travel authorization before passengers are permitted to board their flights to Mozambique.

Travelobiz Take on Mozambique’s ETA Restoration

We view the restoration of Mozambique’s ETA system as a positive and practical return to standard travel procedures after a period of technical disruption. For anyone planning a trip to Mozambique, it is imperative to check your eligibility and secure the necessary travel authorization well in advance. Airlines are expected to rigorously enforce these requirements, and failure to present a valid ETA or eVisa will likely result in denied boarding.

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