A Mozambique transit visa is a single-entry permit valid for 3 to 7 days that allows travelers passing through Mozambique to another country to enter the territory briefly. You need one if you leave the airport’s international transit area, re-check baggage, or cross Mozambique by land. Airside passengers with through-checked luggage and nationals of visa-exempt countries may not need one. This guide covers every requirement, fee, exemption, and application step you need to know before transiting through Mozambique.
What Is a Mozambique Transit Visa?
A Mozambique transit visa is a short-stay travel document issued to foreign nationals who are passing through Mozambique en route to a different final destination. Unlike a tourist visa or eTA, the transit visa is designed specifically for pass-through travel – it allows you to enter Mozambique territory briefly without the intention of staying.
The transit visa has the following core characteristics:
- Validity: 3 to 7 days depending on your nationality and the issuing embassy
- Entry type: Single entry – once you leave Mozambique, the visa cannot be reused
- Purpose: Transit only – you must be travelling to another country as your final destination
- Issued by: Mozambique embassy or high commission in your country of residence
The Mozambique transit visa is distinct from the eVisa and visa on arrival, which are intended for tourism, business, or longer stays. If you plan to stay in Mozambique for more than a few days, a tourist eVisa or eTA would be more appropriate.
Who Needs a Transit Visa for Mozambique?
You will need a Mozambique transit visa in the following situations:
- You must leave the airport for any reason, including overnight layovers, terminal changes, or if your connecting flight departs from a different terminal.
- Your airline requires you to collect and re-check your baggage in Mozambique – this means you must pass through immigration.
- You are crossing Mozambique by land to reach a neighbouring country such as South Africa, Zimbabwe, Tanzania, or Malawi.
- Your flight connection does not allow you to stay within the international transit area – some airports require all passengers to clear immigration even for connections.
- Your next destination requires additional travel documents – you may need to clear immigration to obtain or verify documents before boarding your connecting flight.
The key distinction is airside vs landside. If you remain in the international transit area of the airport, with your luggage checked through to your final destination, and your nationality does not require a visa, you may not need a transit visa. However, the moment you need to pass through Mozambique immigration – for any reason – a transit visa becomes mandatory.
Who Does NOT Need a Transit Visa?
You do not need a Mozambique transit visa if:
- You stay inside the international transit area of the airport and do not pass through immigration, with your luggage checked through to your final destination.
- Your nationality is exempt from Mozambique visa requirements – citizens of SADC (Southern African Development Community) member states and Uganda do not need a transit visa for short stays.
Visa-Exempt Countries
The following countries’ nationals are exempt from Mozambique visa requirements (and therefore do not need a transit visa for short stays):
| Region | Exempt Countries |
|---|---|
| SADC Members | Angola, Botswana, Eswatini, Malawi, Mauritius, South Africa, Tanzania, Zambia, Zimbabwe |
| Other | Kenya, Uganda (added September 2025) |
Diplomatic Passport Exemptions
Holders of diplomatic, official, or service passports from the following countries are also exempt from visa requirements: Brazil, Cabo Verde, China, Cuba, Guinea-Bissau, India, Portugal, São Tomé e Príncipe, South Korea, and Vietnam.
If you hold a regular (ordinary) passport from one of these countries, you still need a transit visa unless you qualify for the airside exemption.
Mozambique Transit Visa Requirements – Documents Needed
To apply for a Mozambique transit visa, you must prepare the following documents:
1. Valid Passport
Your passport must be valid for at least 6 months from the date of application and have at least 2 blank pages for entry and exit stamps.
2. Completed Application Form
The transit visa application form must be:
– Completed in English, Portuguese, or French only
– Filled in capital letters using black or blue ink
– Free of abbreviations or acronyms
– Signed by the applicant
The form is available at the Mozambique embassy or high commission in your country.
3. Passport-Sized Photograph
Submit one recent and clear passport-sized photo. Standard specifications apply – typically 2″ x 2″ or 35mm x 45mm with a white background.
4. Onward Travel Ticket
A copy of your airline ticket or travel booking showing:
– Round-trip travel, or
– Clear onward travel to your final destination beyond Mozambique
5. Entry Visa for Final Destination
If your final destination country requires a visa, you must provide a valid entry visa or residence permit for that country.
6. Proof of Financial Means
Evidence that you have sufficient funds to support yourself during your transit through Mozambique. This can include a recent bank statement or proof of employment.
7. Yellow Fever Vaccination Certificate
If you are travelling from or through a country with yellow fever transmission risk, you must present a valid yellow fever vaccination certificate upon arrival in Mozambique.
| Document | Details |
|---|---|
| Passport | Valid 6+ months, 2 blank pages |
| Application form | EN/PT/FR, capitals, black/blue ink, signed |
| Photo | Recent passport-sized, clear |
| Onward ticket | Round-trip or onward to destination |
| Destination visa | If required by final destination country |
| Proof of funds | Bank statement or financial evidence |
| Yellow fever cert | If from/transiting through endemic country |
Mozambique Transit Visa Fee – How Much Does It Cost?
Transit visa fees vary by embassy and your country of application. There is no single fixed fee – each Mozambique embassy or high commission sets its own rates. Below are the confirmed fees from available sources:
| Embassy / High Commission | Normal Fee | Urgent Fee | Processing Time |
|---|---|---|---|
| UK High Commission (London) | £130 | Not available | Up to 7 days |
| Rwanda High Commission (Kigali) | RWF 81,500 (~$60) | RWF 101,900 (~$75) | 7+ days |
| Other embassies | Varies | Varies | Varies |
Important notes on fees:
- The Rwanda High Commission also charges a RWF 1,000 application form fee in addition to the visa fee
- Payment methods vary – the Rwanda HC requires bank transfer to Bank of Kigali, while others may accept cash or money order
- Fees are non-refundable even if your application is denied
- Always confirm the current fee directly with the Mozambique embassy in your country before applying
For comparison, a Mozambique tourist eVisa costs around $545 for 60 days, while the eTA costs approximately $97 – making the transit visa the most affordable option for brief pass-throughs.
How to Apply for a Mozambique Transit Visa
There is no online e-visa portal for Mozambique transit visas as of 2026. You must apply in person at a Mozambique embassy or high commission. Here is the step-by-step process:
Step 1: Gather Required Documents
Collect all documents listed in the requirements section above. Ensure your passport meets the validity requirement and your application form is completed correctly.
Step 2: Visit the Embassy or High Commission
Locate the nearest Mozambique embassy or high commission in your country. You can find contact details on the official Mozambique Ministry of Foreign Affairs website or through your country’s foreign affairs department.
Step 3: Submit Your Application
Present your completed application form along with all supporting documents. Include the entry and exit border/airports in the form – specify where you will enter and leave Mozambique.
Step 4: Pay the Visa Fee
Pay the applicable fee following the payment method instructed by the embassy. Some embassies accept cash, while others require bank transfers. Keep your payment receipt.
Step 5: Wait for Processing
Your application will be reviewed by the embassy. Standard processing takes up to 7 working days. Some embassies offer urgent processing for an additional fee.
Step 6: Collect Your Passport
Once approved, the embassy will stamp the transit visa into your passport. Collect your passport and verify the visa details (dates, validity) before travelling.
Tip: Apply at least 2 weeks before your travel date to allow for processing time and any unexpected delays.
Transit Visa Processing Time
The Mozambique transit visa processing time depends on the service level you choose:
| Service Level | Processing Time | Additional Cost |
|---|---|---|
| Normal | Up to 7 working days | Included in base fee |
| Urgent | 2-3 working days | Higher fee (varies by embassy) |
Practical advice:
- Apply early – submit your application at least 2 weeks before your intended travel date
- Check embassy hours – some embassies only accept applications on specific days
- Factor in mail time – if you need tomail documents or receive your passport by post, add extra days
- Holiday closures – Mozambique embassies may close on Mozambican public holidays in addition to local holidays
Mozambique Transit Visa vs Tourist eVisa vs eTA
Choosing the right visa type depends on your travel purpose and duration. Here is how the Mozambique transit visa compares to other options:
| Feature | Transit Visa | Tourist eVisa | eTA |
|---|---|---|---|
| Purpose | Pass-through only | Tourism, leisure | Short tourism (exempt nationals) |
| Validity | 3-7 days | 60 or 90 days | 30 days |
| Entry type | Single entry | Multiple entry | Single/double entry |
| Cost | Varies by embassy (~$60-$130) | $545-$749 | ~$97 |
| Application | Embassy only | Online (evisa.gov.mz) | Online (evisa.gov.mz) |
| Processing | Up to 7 days | 7-10 days | 3-5 days |
| Best for | Connecting flights, land crossings | Extended tourism | Visa-exempt nationals visiting briefly |
When to choose each:
- Transit visa: You are passing through Mozambique to another country and need to leave the airport or cross by land
- Tourist eVisa: You want to stay in Mozambique for 60-90 days for tourism
- eTA: You are from a visa-exempt country (SADC, Kenya, Uganda) and want to visit briefly
For a detailed comparison of eVisa and eTA, see our guide on Mozambique eVisa vs ETA.
Transit at Maputo International Airport
Maputo International Airport (MPM) is Mozambique’s main international gateway and the most common transit point for air travelers. Here is what to expect:
- Transit facilities are limited – the airport does not have a large dedicated international transit zone like major hubs
- If your connection requires leaving the transit area, you will need a transit visa
- Some airlines require all passengers to clear immigration at Maputo, even for connections – check with your airline before travel
- Layover accommodation – if you have an overnight layover and need to leave the airport, a transit visa is mandatory
Practical tips for Maputo airport transit:
- Confirm with your airline whether you need to clear immigration for your connection
- If your luggage is checked through to your final destination, you may be able to remain airside
- Have your onward ticket and destination visa (if applicable) readily available
- The airport has basic food and beverage options in the transit area
Land Border Transit Through Mozambique
If you are crossing Mozambique by land to reach a neighbouring country, you must obtain a transit visa before arriving at the border.
Common land transit routes include:
- South Africa to Zimbabwe via Mozambique (Lebombo/Ressano Garcia border)
- South Africa to Malawi via Mozambique
- Tanzania to South Africa via Mozambique
- Zimbabwe to South Africa via Mozambique
Important facts about land border transit:
- You cannot obtain a transit visa at most land borders – you must apply at an embassy before travel
- Some land borders may have restricted hours – plan your crossing during daylight
- The Lebombo-Ressano Garcia crossing from South Africa can have long queues, especially during holiday periods
- Have all documents ready – passport, transit visa, onward travel proof, and destination visa if required
- Cash in USD may be useful for any border fees or emergencies
Frequently Asked Questions – Mozambique Transit Visa
Do I need a transit visa for a connecting flight through Mozambique?
It depends on whether you leave the international transit area. If your luggage is checked through to your final destination and you remain airside, you may not need a transit visa. However, if you must clear immigration – for baggage re-check, terminal change, or overnight layover – you need a Mozambique transit visa. Check with your airline to confirm whether you need to pass through immigration for your specific connection.
Can US citizens get a Mozambique transit visa?
Yes, US citizens can apply for a Mozambique transit visa at the Mozambique Embassy in Washington, DC. US citizens can also enter Mozambique visa-free for tourism for up to 30 days using an eTA, which may be a simpler option if you have a short layover. For pure transit purposes (leaving the airport briefly), a transit visa may be more appropriate.
Can UK citizens transit through Mozambique without a visa?
UK citizens can travel to Mozambique without a visa for tourism or business for up to 30 days, but must apply for an Electronic Travel Authorisation (eTA) at least 48 hours before departure. For a brief airport transit where you remain in the international zone, you may not need any visa. If you need to leave the airport, the eTA or a transit visa (£130) would apply.
How long is a Mozambique transit visa valid?
A Mozambique transit visa is valid for 3 to 7 days depending on your nationality and the issuing embassy. It is issued as a single-entry permit – once you leave Mozambique, the visa cannot be reused. The UK High Commission issues transit visas for 7 days.
How much does a Mozambique transit visa cost?
Fees vary by embassy. At the UK High Commission, the transit visa costs £130. At the Rwanda High Commission, it costs RWF 81,500 (normal) or RWF 101,900 (urgent), plus a RWF 1,000 application form fee. Contact the Mozambique embassy in your country for current pricing.
Can I get a transit visa on arrival in Mozambique?
No, Mozambique transit visas are not available on arrival. You must apply at a Mozambique embassy or high commission in your country before travelling. The visa on arrival is available for tourist purposes at major airports, but transit visas require advance embassy application.
What documents do I need for a Mozambique transit visa?
You need: a valid passport (6+ months validity, 2 blank pages), completed application form (in English, Portuguese, or French), passport-sized photo, onward travel ticket, entry visa for your final destination (if required), proof of financial means, and a yellow fever vaccination certificate if travelling from an endemic country.
How long does it take to process a Mozambique transit visa?
Normal processing takes up to 7 working days. Some embassies offer urgent processing for 2-3 working days at a higher fee. Apply at least 2 weeks before your travel date to allow for processing and any unexpected delays.
Do Indian citizens need a transit visa for Mozambique?
Yes, Indian citizens with ordinary passports need a Mozambique transit visa if they leave the international transit area. India is not on the visa-exempt list. However, holders of Indian diplomatic or official passports are exempt from Mozambique visa requirements. Apply at the Mozambique High Commission in New Delhi or the consulate in your jurisdiction.
Can I transit through Mozambique by land without a visa?
No, if you are crossing Mozambique by land to reach another country, you need a Mozambique transit visa. You must obtain it at a Mozambique embassy before arriving at the border. Land borders generally do not issue transit visas on arrival.
Is a yellow fever vaccination required for transit through Mozambique?
A yellow fever vaccination certificate is required if you are travelling from or through a country with yellow fever transmission risk. This applies even for transit. Check the list of yellow fever endemic countries before your trip and carry your vaccination certificate.
What is the difference between a Mozambique transit visa and a tourist visa?
A transit visa is valid for 3-7 days, single entry, and intended for pass-through travel to another country. A tourist visa (eVisa) is valid for 60-90 days with multiple entry, intended for tourism. A transit visa is cheaper and has a simpler application, but it cannot be used for tourism or extended stays.
