Yes, Mozambique offers a visa on arrival (VOA) at major international airports and land border crossings for most nationalities. The visa costs 50 USD, allows a stay of up to 30 days, and requires a passport valid for at least six months. However, the Mozambique eVisa is increasingly recommended as a more reliable alternative, especially for travelers with fixed itineraries.
This guide covers everything you need to know about the Mozambique visa on arrival: who qualifies, what it costs, which entry points offer it, and how to decide between the VOA and the eVisa system.
What Is the Mozambique Visa on Arrival?
The Mozambique visa on arrival is a border visa issued at the point of entry to eligible travelers who have not obtained a visa before departure. It allows tourists and business visitors to enter Mozambique without visiting an embassy or applying online in advance.
According to Mozambique’s immigration policies, citizens of most countries that are not visa-exempt can obtain a visa on arrival. The visa is typically valid for a single entry, though some travelers report that it may allow two entries within its 30-day validity period when visiting neighboring countries like South Africa or Eswatini.
The VOA system has been available for years, but since the launch of the official eVisa portal (evisa.gov.mz) in December 2022, the Mozambican government has been gradually encouraging travelers to apply online before arrival.
Requirements for Mozambique Visa on Arrival
To obtain a visa on arrival in Mozambique, you must present the following documents at the border:
| Requirement | Details |
|---|---|
| Valid passport | Must be valid for at least 6 months from the date of entry |
| Blank pages | At least 2 blank passport pages required |
| Return or onward ticket | Proof that you plan to leave Mozambique within the visa period |
| Proof of accommodation | Hotel booking, lodge reservation, or invitation letter from a host |
| Proof of sufficient funds | Bank statements or cash to cover your stay |
| Purpose of visit | Be prepared to explain your travel plans to immigration officers |
Additional requirements that may apply:
– Yellow fever vaccination certificate – Required if you have traveled through a yellow fever endemic country
– Parental consent for minors – Travelers under 18 must carry a parental consent letter and birth certificate
– Written invitation – UK government guidance specifically notes that you may be asked for a written invitation from your host or confirmed accommodation reservation
Having printed copies of all documents is strongly recommended. Immigration officers at border crossings may not accept digital versions on your phone, and internet connectivity at smaller entry points can be unreliable.
How Much Does the Mozambique Visa on Arrival Cost?
The visa on arrival costs 50 USD at the border. This is significantly cheaper than the eVisa or embassy-processed visas.
| Visa Type | Cost | Stay Duration | Entry Type |
|---|---|---|---|
| Visa on Arrival | 50 USD | 30 days | Single entry |
| eVisa (30 days) | 6,250 MT (~103 USD) | 30 days | Multiple entry |
| eVisa (60 days) | 12,504 MT (~206 USD) | 60 days | Multiple entry |
| eVisa (90 days) | 18,756 MT (~309 USD) | 90 days | Multiple entry |
| ETA | 48 USD | 30 days (+30 extension) | Single entry |
| Embassy visa (US, 30-day) | 220-280 USD | 30 days | Single/Multiple |
| Embassy visa (US, 90-day) | 240-310 USD | 90 days | Multiple entry |
Important: Payment at the border is typically required in cash, preferably in US dollars. Not all entry points accept credit or debit cards. There are no guaranteed ATM facilities at every border post, so arrive with the exact amount in USD.
The embassy visa processed through the Mozambique Embassy in Washington, DC costs significantly more because it includes processing fees and expedited service options (3-day or 10-day processing).
Where Can You Get a Visa on Arrival in Mozambique?
The visa on arrival is available at major international airports and some land border crossings in Mozambique. However, availability is not guaranteed at every entry point.
Airports where VOA is commonly available:
– Maputo International Airport (MPM) – the main international gateway
– Vilankulo Airport (VNX) – serving the Bazaruto Archipelago
– Inhambane Airport (INH) – southern Mozambique coast
– Beira Airport (BEW) – central Mozambique
– Nampula Airport (APL) – northern Mozambique
– Pemba Airport (POL) – serving Quirimbas Archipelago
Land borders: VOA is available at some major land border crossings with South Africa, Eswatini, Tanzania, Malawi, and Zimbabwe. However, smaller or less frequently used crossings may not offer the service consistently.
Key risks at smaller entry points:
– Staffing levels may be limited, causing long delays
– Payment processing systems may not be functional
– Officers may apply rules differently than at international airports
For travelers heading to remote destinations like the Bazaruto Archipelago, Vilankulo, or island lodges, securing a visa before departure is strongly recommended to avoid disruptions to connecting flights or boat transfers.
Step-by-Step: How to Get a Visa on Arrival in Mozambique
Here is what to expect when obtaining a visa on arrival at a Mozambican airport:
Step 1: Arrive at immigration. Follow signs to the visa on arrival counter, which is typically separate from the regular immigration queue for visa-exempt travelers.
Step 2: Submit your documents. Present your passport, return ticket, proof of accommodation, and proof of funds to the immigration officer.
Step 3: Pay the fee. Pay 50 USD in cash. Keep the receipt as proof of payment.
Step 4: Wait for processing. Processing times vary. At busy airports during peak season, expect waits of 30 minutes to over an hour.
Step 5: Receive your visa stamp. The officer will stamp your passport with a visa valid for 30 days.
Step 6: Proceed to baggage claim and customs. After clearing immigration, collect your luggage and proceed through customs.
The process is straightforward in principle, but delays are common during peak travel periods (December-January, Easter, and school holidays). Travelers with tight connecting flights or pre-booked transfers should factor in potential wait times.
Visa on Arrival vs eVisa: Which Should You Choose?
| Factor | Visa on Arrival | eVisa |
|---|---|---|
| Cost | 50 USD | ~103 USD (30-day) |
| Processing | At the border | Online, 3-5 days before travel |
| Entry type | Single entry | Multiple entry |
| Stay duration | 30 days | 30, 60, or 90 days |
| Reliability | Variable by entry point | Guaranteed if approved |
| Payment | Cash at border | Online (card) |
| Best for | Flexible travelers, last-minute plans | Fixed itineraries, organized tours |
| Risk of denial | Possible at border | Pre-approved before departure |
| Airline boarding | May cause issues if airline unsure of eligibility | Confirmed approval letter |
The eVisa is the better option for most travelers. It costs more but eliminates the uncertainty of border processing. Airlines are increasingly strict about verifying visa eligibility before boarding, and a printed eVisa approval removes any doubt.
The visa on arrival suits travelers who:
– Are making spontaneous or flexible travel plans
– Enter through major international airports like Maputo
– Have all required documents prepared in advance
– Want to save approximately 50 USD on the visa fee
Apply for the eVisa at: evisa.gov.mz – the official portal of the Mozambique National Immigration Service (SENAMI).
Countries That Cannot Get a Visa on Arrival
While most nationalities can obtain a visa on arrival in Mozambique, certain countries are excluded according to Timatic and the Henry & Partners Passport Index. Citizens of these countries must apply at a Mozambican embassy before traveling.
Even for excluded nationalities, there is an exception: travelers who hold a printed confirmation from the Immigration Authority (SENAMI) Headquarters in Maputo indicating pre-approved visa status for the Rovuma Basin Project may be allowed to obtain a visa on arrival.
Visa-exempt nationalities (no visa required for tourism):
Citizens of these Southern African Development Community (SADC) countries do not need a visa for tourism visits:
– Angola
– Botswana
– Eswatini
– Kenya
– Malawi
– Mauritius
– South Africa
– Tanzania
– Uganda (added September 2025)
– Zambia
– Zimbabwe
Holders of diplomatic and official passports from certain countries (including Brazil, Cape Verde, China, Cuba, Guinea-Bissau, India, Portugal, Sao Tome and Principe, South Korea, and Vietnam) may also enter without a visa.
Practical Tips for Mozambique Visa on Arrival
Currency and payment:
– Bring exact USD cash (50 USD for the visa fee). Bills should be in good condition – torn or heavily worn notes may be refused.
– ATMs at Mozambican airports dispense Mozambican metical (MT), but availability is not guaranteed at all entry points.
– Do not rely on card payment at the border.
Timing and queues:
– Arrive prepared for potential long queues, especially during peak travel season (December through February).
– Morning flights may process faster than late-evening arrivals when staffing levels are lower.
– If you have a connecting domestic flight or transfer, build in at least 2-3 hours of buffer time.
Documents:
– Print everything: return ticket, hotel reservation, eVisa (if applying online), travel insurance.
– Keep digital copies as backup on your phone or in cloud storage.
– Carry a pen – you may need to fill out arrival forms by hand.
Airlines and boarding:
– Some airlines may deny boarding if you cannot demonstrate valid visa arrangements for Mozambique.
– Even though VOA exists, airline check-in staff may not be familiar with the policy for your nationality.
– A printed eVisa approval eliminates this risk entirely.
Travel insurance:
– Mozambique does not always enforce a travel insurance requirement, but having coverage is strongly recommended given limited medical facilities outside Maputo.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can US citizens get a visa on arrival in Mozambique?
Yes, US citizens can get a visa on arrival in Mozambique for 50 USD. A single-entry visa is available at major airports and some land border crossings, valid for 30 days. The US Embassy in Mozambique confirms that a one-entry visa can be purchased for approximately 82 USD at points of entry, though the standard VOA fee is 50 USD. US citizens should carry a valid passport with at least 6 months validity, proof of accommodation, and a return ticket.
How much is the visa on arrival fee for Mozambique?
The Mozambique visa on arrival costs 50 USD per person. Payment must be made in cash, preferably in US dollars. Credit and debit cards are not accepted at most border crossings. This is significantly cheaper than the eVisa (approximately 103 USD for 30 days) or an embassy-processed visa (220-310 USD).
Is the Mozambique visa on arrival available at all airports?
The visa on arrival is available at major international airports including Maputo, Vilankulo, Inhambane, Beira, Nampula, and Pemba. However, availability at smaller regional airports and less frequently used land border crossings can vary depending on staffing and local conditions. Travelers entering through remote entry points should consider applying for an eVisa in advance.
What happens if my visa on arrival is denied?
If your visa on arrival is denied at the border, you will typically be refused entry and may be placed on the next available flight back to your point of origin. Airlines may also deny boarding before you even reach Mozambique if they are uncertain about your visa eligibility. To avoid this risk, apply for an eVisa at evisa.gov.mz before departure, which provides confirmed approval before you travel.
Do I need a visa for Mozambique if I am from South Africa?
No, South African citizens do not need a visa to enter Mozambique for tourism purposes. As a member of the Southern African Development Community (SADC), South Africa has a visa exemption agreement with Mozambique. Citizens of several other SADC countries including Botswana, Tanzania, Zambia, Zimbabwe, Angola, Eswatini, Malawi, Mauritius, and Kenya are also visa-exempt for tourism visits.
Can Indian citizens get a visa on arrival in Mozambique?
Indian passport holders can generally obtain a visa on arrival in Mozambique at major entry points for 50 USD. However, holders of Indian diplomatic or official passports may be visa-exempt under bilateral agreements. Indian citizens should carry all standard VOA documents including passport (6+ months validity), return ticket, accommodation proof, and proof of funds. Applying for an eVisa in advance is recommended to avoid potential boarding issues with airlines.
This article was last updated in July 2026. Visa policies can change without notice. Always verify current requirements with the Mozambique National Immigration Service (SENAMI) at evisa.gov.mz or your nearest Mozambican embassy before traveling.
