US citizens need a visa to enter Mozambique. Americans can apply for an eVisa online before departure, obtain a visa on arrival at the border for $50 USD, or apply through the Mozambique Embassy in Washington, DC. This guide covers every option, the exact costs, required documents, and step-by-step instructions so you can choose the best route for your trip.
Do US Citizens Need a Visa for Mozambique?
Yes. The United States is not on Mozambique’s visa-exemption list. As of 2026, only citizens of select Southern African Development Community (SADC) nations and a handful of countries with bilateral agreements can enter Mozambique without a visa. US passport holders must obtain a visa through one of three channels:
| Option | Cost | Validity | Processing Time |
|---|---|---|---|
| eVisa (online) | ~$100-$300 USD | 30, 60, or 90 days | 5-10 business days |
| Visa on Arrival | $50 USD | 30 days | Immediate at border |
| Embassy Visa | $220-$280 USD | 30-90 days | 3-10 business days |
The visa on arrival is the cheapest and fastest option, but the eVisa guarantees your entry approval before you fly. The embassy route is best for longer stays or multiple entries.
Mozambique eVisa: Apply Online Before You Travel
Mozambique launched its electronic visa system in December 2022 through the official portal at evisa.gov.mz. US citizens can apply for a tourist, business, or specialty eVisa entirely online.
eVisa Fees for US Citizens
The tourist eVisa costs are set in Mozambican meticais (MT). Approximate USD equivalents:
| Duration | Cost in MT | Approximate USD |
|---|---|---|
| 30 days | 6,250 MT | ~$100 USD |
| 60 days | 12,504 MT | ~$200 USD |
| 90 days | 18,756 MT | ~$300 USD |
Exchange rates fluctuate. Check the current MT-to-USD rate before applying.
How to Apply for a Mozambique eVisa
- Visit evisa.gov.mz and create an account
- Select your visa type (Tourist, Business, Investment, Sports & Culture, or Crew)
- Fill in your personal details and passport information
- Upload a scanned copy of your passport data page
- Upload a recent passport-style photo
- Pay the visa fee securely online
- Wait for approval (typically 5-10 business days)
- Download and print the PDF eVisa approval
- Present the printed eVisa at check-in and on arrival in Mozambique
Important: If you hold dual nationality, use the passport you will travel with when applying. The eVisa is linked to the specific passport number.
eVisa Types Available
The official portal offers multiple visa categories:
- Tourist Visa (vacation, beaches, sightseeing)
- Business Visa (meetings, conferences, research)
- Investment Visa (projects worth $500,000 USD or more)
- Sports & Culture Visa (competitions, training, demonstrations)
- Crew Visa (airline or cruise ship crew)
- Humanitarian Assistance Visa (invited by government or organizations)
- Business Oil & Gas Visa (petroleum industry activities)
Mozambique Visa on Arrival: What US Citizens Need to Know
US citizens can obtain a visa on arrival at any Mozambique border post, including Maputo International Airport. This is the most affordable option at $50 USD cash.
Requirements for Visa on Arrival
You must present all of the following at the border:
- A valid US passport with at least 6 months validity from your date of entry
- At least 2 blank pages in your passport for stamps
- A return or onward airline ticket
- Proof of sufficient funds to support your stay
- Proof of the purpose of your visit (hotel reservation, invitation letter, or tour booking)
Visa on Arrival Duration and Entries
The visa on arrival is valid for a maximum stay of 30 days. Although the visa states it is valid for only 1 entry, travelers have reported that the visa was accepted for 2 entries if used within the 30-day validity window, particularly for trips to Eswatini and South Africa.
Visa on Arrival vs eVisa: Which Should You Choose?
| Factor | Visa on Arrival | eVisa |
|---|---|---|
| Cost | $50 USD | ~$100-$300 USD |
| Pre-approval | No | Yes |
| Risk of denial | Small chance at border | Approved before travel |
| Max stay | 30 days | 30, 60, or 90 days |
| Convenience | Pay at airport | Pay online in advance |
The visa on arrival costs significantly less than the eVisa and requires no advance application. However, the eVisa provides peace of mind with pre-approval and allows stays longer than 30 days. For a short beach holiday, the visa on arrival is the most practical choice.
Mozambique Embassy Visa: Applying from the United States
For travelers who prefer to have their visa in hand before departure, or those needing multiple-entry visas, the Mozambique Embassy in Washington, DC processes visa applications.
Embassy Visa Fees
| Visa Type | Processing Time | Fee |
|---|---|---|
| Single Entry (30 days) – Normal | 10 business days | $220 USD |
| Single Entry (30 days) – Expedited | 3 business days | $280 USD |
| Multiple Entry (90 days) – Normal | 10 business days | $240 USD |
How to Apply at the Embassy
- Scan your passport data page, completed visa application form, and supporting documents into a single PDF file (maximum 5 MB per file)
- Email the PDF to [email protected]
- Wait for the consular section to reply with “RECEIVED” confirmation
- Do NOT send physical documents until the embassy advises you to do so
- Once pre-approved by Immigration in Mozambique, the embassy will instruct you to mail or bring in your physical requirements: printed PDF, actual passport, 2 passport photos, money order, and a prepaid return label with envelope
Embassy Contact Information
- Address: Embassy of the Republic of Mozambique, 1525 New Hampshire Ave NW, Washington, DC 20036
- Phone: 202-293-7146 (Extension 230)
- Email: [email protected]
- Consular Hours: Monday-Friday, 9:00 AM – 1:00 PM
- Pick-up Hours: Monday-Friday, 11:30 AM – 1:00 PM
Passport Requirements for Mozambique
Your US passport must meet these requirements to enter Mozambique:
- Valid for at least 6 months beyond your date of entry
- At least 2 blank pages for visa and entry/exit stamps
- Must be in good condition (damaged passports may be rejected)
- Lost or stolen passports will result in denied entry
If your passport does not meet these requirements, renew it before traveling. The US State Department recommends applying for renewal at least 6 months before your trip.
Entry Requirements Beyond the Visa
Yellow Fever Certificate
If you are arriving from a country with risk of yellow fever transmission, you must present a valid yellow fever vaccination certificate. This applies even if you are only transiting through a risk country. Check the CDC list of countries with yellow fever risk before your trip.
Traveling with Children Under 18
If you are entering Mozambique with a child under 18, you need:
- An unabridged birth certificate listing both parents
- If the child is traveling with only one parent or without either parent: a notarized parental consent affidavit no older than 3 months
Customs Rules
Mozambique has strict customs regulations:
- Declare cash amounts of 10,000 Mozambican meticais or more
- Declare foreign currency or travelers cheques worth $5,000 USD or more
- Certain goods are prohibited or subject to duty
Keep all receipts and declaration forms, as you may need to present them when leaving the country.
Safety Considerations for US Citizens
The US State Department and UK FCDO advise against travel to certain parts of Mozambique, particularly:
- Cabo Delgado province (insurgency and terrorism risk)
- Parts of Nampula province
- Areas near the border with Tanzania
Popular tourist destinations such as Maputo, Inhambane, Vilankulo, and the Bazaruto Archipelago are generally considered safer, but standard precautions apply. Register with the US Embassy through the STEP (Smart Traveler Enrollment Program) before your trip.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can US citizens get a visa on arrival in Mozambique?
Yes. US citizens can obtain a visa on arrival at any Mozambique border post, including Maputo International Airport. The cost is $50 USD cash, and the visa is valid for 30 days. You need a passport valid for at least 6 months, a return ticket, and proof of sufficient funds.
How much does a Mozambique visa cost for Americans?
The cost depends on the type: visa on arrival is $50 USD, eVisa ranges from approximately $100 to $300 USD depending on duration (30, 60, or 90 days), and embassy visas cost $220-$280 USD for single entry or $240 USD for multiple entry.
How long does it take to get a Mozambique eVisa?
The eVisa typically takes 5-10 business days to process. Apply at least 2 weeks before your trip to allow time for processing and any potential delays.
Do I need to print my Mozambique eVisa?
Yes. You must download and print the PDF eVisa approval. Airlines and immigration officers require a physical copy for boarding and entry. Do not rely on showing the eVisa on your phone.
Can I extend my Mozambique visa?
Visa extensions are possible through the immigration office in Mozambique. The ETA can be extended for an additional 30 days. For eVisa and visa-on-arrival holders, consult the local immigration authority (SENAMI) before your current visa expires.
Is Mozambique safe for US tourists?
Most popular tourist areas in southern Mozambique (Maputo, Inhambane, Vilankulo, Bazaruto) are considered relatively safe. The US State Department advises against travel to Cabo Delgado province due to insurgency. Register with STEP and follow local security guidance.
What vaccinations do I need for Mozambique?
A yellow fever certificate is required if arriving from a risk country. Recommended vaccinations include hepatitis A and B, typhoid, and malaria prophylaxis. Consult a travel health clinic 4-6 weeks before departure.
Can I work in Mozambique on a tourist visa?
No. A tourist visa does not authorize employment. If you plan to work, conduct business beyond meetings, or study in Mozambique, you must apply for the appropriate visa category through the embassy or the official eVisa portal.
What currency should I bring to Mozambique?
The local currency is the Mozambican metical (MT). US dollars are widely accepted in tourist areas. Carry small denominations of USD for the visa on arrival fee. ATMs are available in major cities but may not accept all international cards.
Do I need a return ticket to enter Mozambique?
Yes. Immigration officers require proof of a return or onward ticket. This applies to all visa types. Without a return ticket, you may be denied entry.
