As a US citizen, you need a Mozambique eTA for tourism or business stays up to 30 days. The eTA costs $48 and processes in about 5 business days. The eTA is a single-entry digital travel authorization for short trips, replacing the visa on arrival (limited to Maputo, Vilanculos, Pemba, and Beira airports) for nationals of 183 eligible countries. Apply online at evisa.gov.mz (portal launched February 11, 2026, in partnership with VFS Global and SENAMI). For longer stays or work, the eVisa offers up to 90 days with multiple entries. However, most US tourists find the eTA sufficient.
Published: March 15, 2026 | Last updated: August 18, 2026. According to the official Mozambique Immigration portal (evisa.gov.mz, accessed August 2026), the eTA processing time is 5 business days and the eVisa fee is $190. This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Immigration rules may change without notice. Always verify current requirements on the official Mozambique e-Visa portal (evisa.gov.mz) before traveling.
eTA vs eVisa: Quick Comparison for US Citizens
The Mozambique eTA costs $48 USD for a 30-day single entry, while the eVisa costs $190 USD for up to 90 days with multiple entries. US citizens qualify for the eTA for tourism or business stays of 30 days or fewer. The eVisa is required only for stays exceeding 30 days, multiple entries, or specialized purposes like investment (minimum $500,000, registered with the Investment Promotion Centre).
| Feature | Mozambique eTA | Mozambique eVisa |
|---|---|---|
| Fee | $48 USD (non-refundable) | $190 USD (non-refundable) |
| Maximum stay | 30 days | Up to 90 days |
| Entry type | Single entry | Multiple entry options |
| Processing time | ~5 business days (apply ≥48h before departure) | 5-9 business days |
| Payment | Visa or Mastercard only | Visa or Mastercard only |
| Bottom line | The eTA covers most US tourists; choose the eVisa only for stays exceeding 30 days or multiple entries. | |
How to Apply for a Mozambique eTA as a US Citizen
US citizens can apply for the eTA online at evisa.gov.mz, paying $48 and waiting about five business days for stays up to 30 days. The portal uses 256-bit SSL encryption and is PCI DSS compliant.
- Visit evisa.gov.mz.
- Select “eTA” and “United States.”
- Fill in personal and passport data.
- Upload a passport scan with 6 months validity and 2 to 3 blank pages (max 5 MB per file).
- Upload a 2″x2″ color photo on a white background, no glasses, front-facing.
- Upload proof of accommodation and a return ticket.
- Pay $48 (Visa/Mastercard only), receive PDF by email, print for boarding and arrival.
- Wait approximately 5 business days for processing.
Rejections, Extensions, and Cruise Passengers
Rejections
Applicants have 5 calendar days from the rejection email to resubmit. Resubmitted files must meet the same eligibility rules: passport with 6-month validity, 2″x2″ photo, and $48 fee. Common rejection reason #1: photo with shadows. Solution: use a plain white background with even lighting. Common rejection reason #2: blurry passport scan. Solution: scan at 300 DPI and save as PDF. After the 5-day window, apply at a Mozambican embassy.
Extensions
US citizens may extend a stay by up to 30 additional days at immigration offices, applying 2 to 3 weeks before expiry. Combined tourist and business travel is capped at 90 days per calendar year. Overstay penalties include fines, deportation, and future entry bans.
Cruise Ship Passengers
US cruise passengers need an eTA before disembarking, even for short shore excursions in Maputo or Pemba. Apply at least 2 to 3 weeks before departure; processing takes ~5 business days, and cruise schedules cannot be rescheduled.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Do US citizens need an eVisa or an eTA for Mozambique in 2026?
US citizens need an eTA ($48, single entry, 30 days max) for short stays; an eVisa ($190, multiple entries, up to 90 days) only for longer trips.
How much does a Mozambique eTA cost for US citizens?
The eTA fee is $48 USD (non-refundable), payable via Visa or Mastercard only. Amex, Discover, PayPal, and digital wallets are not supported.
How long does Mozambique eTA processing take?
Processing: eTA ~5 business days (apply at least 48h before; ideally 2 to 3 weeks). eVisa: 5 to 9 business days.
What documents do US citizens need for the Mozambique eTA?
A passport with 6 months validity and 2 to 3 blank pages, a 2×2 inch digital photo on a white background, proof of accommodation, a return ticket, and financial proof like recent bank statements.
Can US citizens get a visa on arrival for Mozambique?
Visa on arrival exists only at Maputo, Vilanculos, Pemba, and Beira airports and is not recommended. The eTA is faster, cheaper, and guaranteed before travel.
Do US cruise ship passengers need an eTA for Mozambique?
Yes, cruise passengers disembarking in Mozambique need an eTA, even for short shore excursions in Maputo or Pemba.
Can US citizens extend their Mozambique stay beyond 30 days?
Yes, extensions of up to 30 days are available at immigration offices. Apply 2 to 3 weeks before expiry. Maximum stay is 90 days per calendar year.
What happens if my Mozambique eTA application is rejected?
You have a 5-calendar-day window to resubmit. Common reasons: blurry photos, expired passport scans, insufficient financial proof. After the 5-day window, apply at a Mozambican embassy.
Do I need a yellow fever vaccination to enter Mozambique?
Not if Mozambique is your only destination. If arriving from a yellow fever risk country (e.g., Kenya, Uganda) or transiting more than 12 hours there, a valid certificate is required for travelers over one year of age.
Which passport should I use if I have dual US-Mozambican nationality?
Use the passport you will travel with and present at the border. The eTA is linked to a specific passport number. Using a Mozambican passport may exempt you from eTA requirements but triggers different obligations.
What documents do children under 18 need for Mozambique?
Travelers under 18 need a notarized parental consent letter in Portuguese and a birth certificate, in addition to standard eTA requirements.
Is there a transit eVisa for short stopovers in Mozambique?
Yes, the Transit eVisa costs approximately $69 USD, processes in 2 to 3 business days, and allows single entry with up to 60 days validity.