Mozambique ETA 2026: New Online Entry System Now in Effect

What Travelers Must Know About Mozambique’s New Digital Entry Platform

Mozambique has launched a new official eVisa and eTA (Electronic Travel Authorization) platform, introduced on 11 February 2026. The previous platform has been discontinued, and travelers should use the official portal for all online applications and status checks.

This system is designed to separate travelers into the correct pathway based on nationality and purpose of travel. For many short-stay tourists and business travelers from previously visa-exempt countries, the key change is that an eTA may be required before you travel, even if you do not need a full visa.

Official Portal and What Changed in February 2026

The official portal is: https://evisa.gov.mz

What changed in 2026:
The platform was relaunched on 11 February 2026 and now supports both eVisa and eTA applications through a modernized system. Public travel industry announcements also note platform support from VFS Global.

Practical impact for travelers:
Airlines may check for valid authorization before boarding where an eTA or eVisa is required. You should not rely on arrival-based solutions if your nationality needs pre-travel clearance.

Mozambique ETA 2026: What It Is and Who It Applies To

The Mozambique eTA is a pre-travel authorization for certain visa-exempt travelers. It is not a full visa. It is an online clearance intended to be obtained before departure. The portal’s FAQ guidance recommends applying at least 48 hours before your planned departure.

Key point for 2026 planning:
Nationality determines whether you need:
An eTA (pre-travel authorization)
An eVisa (full visa issued electronically)
A visa waiver category with additional requirements, including fees and supporting documents (varies by passport and travel purpose)

Always confirm your exact eligibility on the official portal close to departure, because airlines can enforce the most current rule at check-in.

Countries Commonly Referenced Under the eTA Requirement

Mozambique’s eTA pathway is commonly referenced for a list of 29 previously visa-exempt countries, including the United States and United Kingdom, plus multiple European and other nations. The official portal shows many of these countries under eTA eligibility for tourist and business travel (for example: Belgium, Canada, China, France, Germany, Italy, Japan, Netherlands, Norway, Saudi Arabia, South Korea, Spain, Sweden, Switzerland, UAE, UK, US).

Important: eligibility can depend on passport type and purpose of travel, so always verify your specific passport on the portal before departure.

eTA vs eVisa: The Difference Travelers Actually Need to Understand

eTA (Electronic Travel Authorization)
For certain visa-exempt travelers who still must register online and receive permission before travel. Recommended submission is at least 48 hours before departure.

eVisa (Electronic Visa)
A full visa issued electronically for travelers who are not eligible for eTA travel or who need a formal visa category. The official portal guidance references standard processing of around 5 business days after submission and payment.

Fees and the 650 MZN Question

Travelers frequently see two different “fee” concepts in Mozambique entry rules:

1. eVisa fees
   These depend on visa type, duration, and entry format (single or multiple entry). The portal instructs applicants to pay fees during the online process, but does not present a single universal USD price on the homepage.
2. Visa-exemption administrative or entry fees
   Reputable government travel advisories continue to reference an entry fee for visa-exempt travelers, and some sources reference 650 MZN. Requirements can include proof of accommodation and onward or return travel.

Best practice for 2026:
Use the official portal for your authorization pathway, and check your own government travel advisory close to departure for fee handling and documents that may still be checked on arrival.

Documents You Should Prepare for Mozambique eTA or eVisa

Even with online approval, border officials can request supporting documents. Prepare these in advance:

Passport validity
Passport should be valid for at least 6 months beyond arrival, and have blank pages (requirements vary by advisory).

Proof of onward or return travel
Commonly requested by airlines and immigration.

Proof of accommodation
Hotel confirmation or lodge booking details are commonly requested.

Proof of funds
Some applications or checks can request evidence of sufficient means.

Minors documentation
If traveling with minors, review the portal’s minor documentation requirements and carry any required consent forms.

How Long Does Mozambique eTA or eVisa Take in 2026?

eTA timing
The official portal guidance recommends applying at least 48 hours before departure. Treat this as the minimum, not the ideal. Apply earlier if you can, especially in peak travel periods.

eVisa timing
The portal FAQ guidance references standard processing of approximately 5 business days after submission and payment.

Download, Print, and Carry Your Approval

Once approved, the portal instructs travelers to download and print the PDF approval and have it ready for boarding and arrival checks. Carry a printed copy plus a digital copy on your phone.

Avoid Third-Party Websites and Fake Portals

The official portal is https://evisa.gov.mz

If a website charges large “processing fees” or looks like an unofficial agent, do not use it. Apply directly, keep your confirmation emails, and use the portal’s status tracking if needed.

Why This Matters for Popular Mozambique Trips in 2026

These entry rules affect travelers heading to Mozambique’s most-booked tourism regions, including:
Vilanculos and the Bazaruto Archipelago
Inhambane and Tofo
Maputo and the Santa Maria Peninsula
Gorongosa National Park
Ilha de Mozambique

For 2026 trips, pre-departure compliance is essential. If your passport needs an eTA or eVisa, you may be refused boarding without it.

Mozambique Travel Guidance for Smooth Entry

Use this checklist before flying:

1. Confirm your nationality eligibility on the official portal.
2. Confirm whether you need eTA or eVisa based on travel purpose.
3. Apply early, do not treat 48 hours as a comfort buffer.
4. Save and print your approval PDF for airline check-in and immigration.
5. Travel with your supporting documents, even if you have approval.