🇲🇿 Mozambique visa for Brazil citizens

Most passports need a visa for Mozambique. You can get one on arrival, but it's simpler to sort before you go.

Who gets in visa-free, and who doesn't?

If you're a citizen of South Africa, you can enter Mozambique visa-free for up to 30 days. That’s about it for visa-free entry. Everyone else? You're looking at either a visa on arrival or a pre-arranged visa. Nationals from Portugal also get 30 days visa-free. For US, UK, Canadian, and Australian passport holders, you can get a visa on arrival at major ports of entry like Maputo International Airport. It’s usually a 30-day visa, extendable once for another 30 days. The fee for this visa on arrival is around $50 USD.

If you're from countries not covered by visa-free entry or visa-on-arrival agreements, you'll need to apply for a visa at a Mozambican embassy or consulate in your home country or a neighboring nation before you travel. This process can take longer, so factor that in. Don't assume you can wing it; some nationalities have been turned away at the border for not having the correct pre-arranged visa.

How long can you actually stay, and what's the catch?

The standard tourist visa, whether obtained on arrival or beforehand, typically grants you 30 days of stay. This is often extendable for another 30 days by visiting a local immigration office. Be warned, though. The rules around extensions can be a bit fuzzy, and sometimes you need proof of onward travel or sufficient funds. Double-check the exact requirements at the immigration office when you arrive.

Overstaying your visa is where things get expensive. Fines are often calculated daily, and they add up fast. While specific figures vary and can change, expect to pay a penalty of around $10-$25 USD per day you are out of status. Beyond the fines, overstaying can lead to detention, deportation, and a ban from re-entering Mozambique for a period. Always ensure your visa is valid for the duration of your intended stay and get those extensions processed well in advance if needed. Also, ensure you get an exit stamp when you leave; missing stamps can cause issues on future entries.

Working remotely on a tourist visa: is it legal?

Mozambique doesn't have a specific digital nomad visa. So, working remotely on a standard tourist visa is technically a grey area. The law generally states that you should not engage in paid work for a local company or conduct business activities while on a tourist stamp. However, working remotely for an employer or clients outside of Mozambique is something many travellers do without issue.

Enforcement varies wildly. In tourist hubs like Maputo or the coastal areas, immigration officials are often more focused on your visa status and exit plans than on what you're doing on your laptop. However, if you draw attention to yourself or are involved in any situation requiring deeper scrutiny, working remotely could be flagged. It's a calculated risk. If you plan to stay long-term and work extensively, investigating business visa options or consulting with a local immigration lawyer is the safest bet. For shorter stays, most people find they can work remotely without attracting unwanted attention, but understand it's not explicitly sanctioned.

What’s new with Mozambican visas?

Mozambique has been working on streamlining its visa process, particularly with the introduction and expansion of an eVisa system. This system, rolled out in phases, allows citizens from many countries to apply for and receive tourist visas online before arrival. This is a significant improvement, especially for those who can’t easily access an embassy. The eVisa typically costs around $50 USD and usually processes within 5-10 business days.

The government has also been looking at expanding the list of countries eligible for visa-on-arrival and the eVisa. Always check the official Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Cooperation website or the designated eVisa portal for the most current list of eligible nationalities and fees, as these details can change. While the eVisa is a big step forward, ensure you meet all the requirements and submit your application well in advance of your travel dates to avoid any last-minute complications.