Mozambique Visa for UK Citizens

Mozambique, with its 2,500 km of pristine coastline, idyllic islands like the Bazaruto Archipelago, and vibrant, complex history, is moving to the top of every savvy traveler's list. But for UK citizens, the process of getting in has changed. Gone are the days of embassy visits or simple visa-on-arrival queues.

The entire system has moved online. While "online" means more convenient, it also means new, specific rules. This guide will walk you through the exact Mozambique eVisa for UK Citizens process, documents, and timelines you need to know.

Do UK Citizens Need a Visa for Mozambique?

Yes. UK citizens traveling to Mozambique for any purpose (including tourism) must now obtain an eVisa online before traveling. The old visa-on-arrival system is no longer the primary method of entry and should not be relied upon.

Airlines will check for your approved eVisa before you board your flight from the UK.

How many types of Mozambique e-visas are there?

The new eVisa portal is comprehensive and offers specific visas for different travel reasons. When you apply, you will need to select the one that matches your trip.

The main categories for UK travelers are:

• Tourist eVisa: This is the one for holidaymakers. It's offered in multiple durations, such as 30 Days, 60 Days, or 90 Days (all multiple entries).
• Business eVisa: For meetings, conferences, or work-related trips, also available in 30, 60, or 90-day options.
• Investment eVisa: For those exploring investment opportunities, with longer stays.
• Sport or Culture eVisa: A dedicated 30-day, single-entry visa for athletes, artists, or attendees of a specific event.

For 99% of holidaymakers, the Tourist eVisa (60 Days, Multiple entry) is the most common and flexible choice.

What are the visa requirements for Mozambique?

This is the most critical part of your application. The online Mozambique eVisa Required documents you to upload specific documents. Vague or incorrect uploads are the #1 reason for rejection.

Here is your essential checklist:

1. Passport Bio Page: A clear, color scan of your UK passport's photo page. It must be valid for at least 6 months.
2. Applicant Photo: A recent, digital passport-style photo (see details below).
3. Last 3 Months Bank Statements: This is a key requirement. The portal specifies you must show "proof of financial means equivalent to at least 1,000 USD."
4. Hotel Booking Confirmation: A confirmed accommodation booking for at least your first few nights.
5. Return Ticket: A confirmed flight ticket showing you are leaving Mozambique.

What Are the Bank Statement Requirements for Mozambique eVisa? 

This requirement causes the most confusion. Here’s how to meet it:

• What to provide: Download your last 3 full months of bank statements (e.g., if applying in May, provide Feb, Mar, and Apr).
• The balance: The portal wants to see a consistent balance, with a closing balance of at least £800 GBP (the equivalent of $1,000 USD).
• Problem to avoid: A large, sudden deposit just before you apply looks suspicious. They want to see your regular income and savings.
• What if I'm a student/unemployed? You can provide a letter from a sponsor (e.g., a parent) along with their bank statements and a copy of their passport.

What Are the Mozambique eVisa Photo Requirements?

Don't just upload a selfie. Your application photo must be a high-quality, digital "passport-style" photo.

• Background: Plain white or off-white.
• View: Face-on, looking directly at the camera.
• No obstructions: No hats, sunglasses, or heavy shadows.
• Recent: Taken in the last 6 months.
• Format: A high-quality JPEG or PNG.

How long does it take to get a Mozambique e-Visa? 

The portal offers three distinct processing speeds. This is a fantastic feature, allowing you to pay more if you're in a hurry.

• Normal Processing: 6-9 Working Days
• Rush Processing: 4-7 Working Days
• Super Rush Processing: 3-5 Working Days

"Working Days" means Monday to Friday, excluding Mozambican and UK public holidays. Do not count the weekends. Always apply at least two weeks in advance to be safe.

How to apply for a visa for Mozambique from United Kingdom?

1. Start New Application: Log in and select "Mozambique eVisa application."
2. Fill in Details: Enter your personal info, passport data, and travel dates.
3. Select Visa Type: Choose the correct visa (e.g., "Tourist eVisa - 60 Days").
4. Upload Your Documents: This is the key step. Upload the 5 documents from the checklist above.
5. Pay the Fee: Pay the visa fee online using a credit or debit card.
6. Wait for Approval: You will be notified by email. Check your spam folder!

Help! My Mozambique eVisa Payment Failed. What Should I Do?

This is a very common and stressful "real problem." If your payment is declined, don't panic. Try these steps in order:

1. Check with Your Bank: This is the most likely cause. UK banks (especially online-only banks like Monzo or Starling) often automatically block foreign transactions to unfamiliar government websites. Open your banking app or call your bank to "approve" the transaction and then try again.
2. Try a Different Card: The portal's payment gateway may simply not like your card type (e.g., Amex). Try a Visa or Mastercard if you have one.
3. Try a Different Browser: Sometimes the payment script has issues with Chrome or Safari. Try a different browser (like Firefox or Edge) or use your phone instead of your laptop.

What if My Mozambique eVisa Application is Rejected?

A rejection is almost always due to a simple (but frustrating) error. The most common reasons are:

• A Blurry Passport Scan: Your photo or passport numbers were unreadable.
• A "Selfie" Photo: You uploaded a casual photo, not a proper applicant photo.
• Bank Statement Issues: You didn't show 3 full months, or the balance was too low.
• Booking Mismatch: Your hotel booking dates didn't match your flight dates.
• Incorrect Information: You made a typo in your name, date of birth, or passport number.

If you are rejected, you will unfortunately have to submit a new application and pay the fee again. Check every document and detail with extreme care before you submit.

What's the Difference Between Mozambique Visa Validity and Duration of Stay?

This is a crucial point that confuses many travelers.

• Visa Validity: This is the window of time in which your visa can be used to enter Mozambique. For example, your visa might be "Valid for 90 days" from the date it's issued. You must enter the country within that 90-day window.
• Duration of Stay: This is the maximum number of days you are allowed to remain in Mozambique after you arrive. This is the "30 Days," "60 Days," or "90 Days" you applied for.

Your "Duration of Stay" (e.g., 60 days) starts counting from the day you land, as long as you land within the "Validity" period.

Do I Still Need a Yellow Fever Certificate?

Yes. The UK government and travel health clinics state that a Yellow Fever certificate is required for travelers arriving from countries with risk of yellow fever transmission (which includes many other African countries).

Even if you are flying directly from the UK (which is not a risky country), you may be asked for it by border officials. It is highly recommended to have one to avoid any issues at immigration.

What Happens When I Land at the Airport?

When you land at Maputo (MPM) or Vilanculos (VNX), the immigration officer will ask to see:

1. Your valid UK Passport.
2. Your printed copy of the approved eVisa. (Do not rely on your phone!).
3. Your Yellow Fever certificate.
4. They may also ask to see your return ticket or hotel booking again, so have them handy.

Where is the Mozambique eVisa Accepted? (Main Entry Points)

Your approved eVisa is valid for entry at all major international airports, including:

• Maputo International Airport (MPM)
• Vilanculos International Airport (VNX) (The gateway to the Bazaruto Archipelago)
• Beira International Airport (BEW)
• Nacala International Airport (MNC)
• Pemba International Airport (POL)

It is also accepted at major land border crossings.

Do I Need a Visa for a Short Layover in Maputo?

• If you do NOT leave the airport: If you are in transit to another country (e.g., South Africa) and you do not leave the international transit area of the airport, you do not need an eVisa.
• If you MUST leave the airport: If you need to check in for a separate flight or if your layover is overnight, you will need a visa. In this case, you should apply for a Transit eVisa on the same portal.

Can I Apply if My Passport is Nearing Expiry?

Your passport must be valid for at least six (6) months from your intended date of entry into Mozambique. If your passport has 5 months left, your application will be rejected. You must renew your passport before applying.

Can I Extend My Tourist eVisa in Mozambique?

Yes. If you are in Mozambique on your eVisa and decide to stay longer (up to the visa's maximum validity), you can apply for an extension. This must be done in person at a Direcção Nacional de Migração (Immigration Office) in a provincial capital (like Maputo or Inhambane) before your current visa expires.

Is Mozambique Safe for UK Tourists in 2025?

This is a very genuine and important query. The UK Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO) provides detailed travel advice.

• Most of the Country: The main tourist areas in the south and center—including Maputo, Inhambane, Tofo, Vilanculos, and the Bazaruto Archipelago—are generally considered safe and welcoming to tourists.
• Northern Province: The FCDO advises against all travel to certain districts in the Cabo Delgado province in the far north due to ongoing instability.

This instability is highly localized and far away from the main tourist circuits. It is essential to check the latest FCDO advice before you travel, but you should not let it deter you from visiting the safe and beautiful southern regions.

Your Final eVisa Checklist

• Visa Type: Choose the "Tourist eVisa" (30, 60, or 90 days).
• Documents: Get your Passport Scan, Applicant Photo, 3 Months Bank Statements (>$1000), Hotel Booking, and Return Ticket.
• Timeline: Apply for "Normal Processing" at least 2 weeks before you fly.
• Health: Get your Yellow Fever vaccination.
• Print Everything: Carry a printed copy of your approved eVisa.

With a little online preparation, you'll be all set to discover one of the most beautiful and rewarding destinations in Southern Africa.