Mozambique Visa for Swiss Citizens 2026

Do Swiss Citizens Need a Visa for Mozambique?

Swiss citizens are among 29 visa-exempt nationalities that can enter Mozambique for tourism and business purposes without a traditional visa. However, as of February 2026, Mozambique now requires all visa-exempt travellers, including Swiss nationals, to obtain a mandatory Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA) before departure. This is a significant change: while visa-free entry remains available, pre-travel digital authorization is no longer optional. Airlines may refuse boarding without approved eTA authorization, so advance application is essential to avoid travel disruption.

The eTA permits a 30-day stay and is renewable for an additional 30 days upon justification. For stays exceeding 30 days or complex travel purposes (multi-country itineraries, work, investment), Swiss citizens must apply for a full eVisa instead.

Quick Reference for Swiss Travellers

Entry Type	Duration	Cost (USD)	Processing Time	Application Deadline
eTA (Electronic Travel Authorization)	30 days	~$48	48 hours minimum	At least 48 hours before departure
Tourist eVisa	30 days	~$190	5–9 business days	Before departure
Business eVisa	30 days	~$190	5–9 business days	Before departure
Multiple Entry eVisa	90 days	~$500	5–9 business days	Before departure

Last checked July 2026 — always confirm with official sources before travelling.

Visa Types & Who Needs What

eTA (Electronic Travel Authorization)

The eTA is the standard entry option for Swiss citizens visiting Mozambique for short-term tourism or business. It is a pre-travel digital authorization—not a full visa—and must be approved before you board your flight. The eTA allows a single entry and a maximum stay of 30 days, renewable for an additional 30 days with justification.

Who should apply for an eTA:

• Tourism visits up to 30 days
• Business meetings or conferences (short-term)
• Leisure travel and sightseeing
• Family visits (short-term)

The eTA is not issued on arrival. Airlines now verify eTA compliance before boarding, meaning you cannot obtain this authorization after leaving Switzerland.

eVisa (Electronic Visa)

The full eVisa is required for Swiss citizens whose travel does not fit the eTA category. This includes:

• Stays longer than 30 days
• Work visas or employment-related travel
• Investment or business establishment
• Multiple entries within 90 days
• Complex itineraries involving re-entry
• Specialized purposes (education, research, diplomatic)

Tourist eVisas and Business eVisas are both available and cost approximately $190 for a 30-day permit. A 90-day multiple-entry eVisa costs approximately $500. Processing typically takes 5–9 business days.

Visa on Arrival (Not Available to Swiss Citizens)

Unlike some nationalities, Swiss citizens cannot obtain a visa on arrival in Mozambique. You must secure either an eTA or eVisa before departure.

Step-by-Step Application Guide for Swiss Citizens

Step 1: Visit the Official Portal

Navigate to evisa.gov.mz—the official Mozambique government portal. Do not use third-party visa websites, which may charge inflated fees and are not authorized to issue visas. The official portal was relaunched on 11 February 2026 with a new digital platform.

Step 2: Create an Account

Register or log in using a one-time password (OTP) sent to your email. Use your personal email address and ensure you can access it throughout the application process, as all updates and approvals are sent electronically.

Step 3: Select Your Authorization Type

Choose your travel purpose from the available options. For Swiss citizens, the most common selections are:

• eTA – Tourism (for leisure travel up to 30 days)
• eTA – Business (for short-term business activities up to 30 days)
• Tourist eVisa (for longer stays or complex itineraries)
• Business eVisa (for employment, conferences, or work-related visits)

The portal does not display a separate eTA dropdown; instead, you select "Tourism" or "Business" visa and the system processes it as an eTA if you qualify.

Step 4: Upload Required Documents

Prepare and upload the following documents in digital format:

• Valid Passport: A clear scan of your passport's photo page and information pages. Your passport must have at least 6 months of validity remaining beyond your intended stay and a minimum of three blank pages.
• Passport Photo: A recent, colour passport-sized photo (2" × 2") with a white background, front-facing, and without glasses. The portal includes an integrated photo editor to ensure compliance with specifications.
• Proof of Accommodation: Confirmed hotel reservations, Airbnb booking confirmation, or a notarized invitation letter from a host in Mozambique showing your name and dates of stay.
• Travel Itinerary: Confirmed return or onward flight tickets, or a detailed itinerary showing your travel dates and destinations.
• Financial Proof: Recent bank statements (typically from the last 3 months) demonstrating sufficient funds for your stay. Statements must clearly show your name as the account holder, account balances, and the statement date.

All documents must be in English or certified English translations. Ensure your name and passport number match exactly across all documents—mismatches are a leading cause of rejection.

Step 5: Complete Your Application Form

Fill in your personal details, travel dates, and contact information. Double-check all entries for accuracy, particularly your passport number, date of birth, and email address. The system will cross-reference this information with your passport scan.

Step 6: Pay the Fee

Submit payment via the secure international gateway. The portal accepts major credit cards (Visa, Mastercard, American Express) and international debit cards. All fees are non-refundable. Your bank may apply additional currency conversion charges if your card is not in USD.

Step 7: Receive Your Preliminary Authorization

Upon approval, you will receive a PDF confirmation email with your eTA or preliminary eVisa. Print this document and carry it with you—you must present it at check-in before boarding your flight and again at immigration on arrival in Mozambique. You may also display the PDF on a mobile device, but a printed copy is strongly recommended as a backup.

Fees & Payment Methods

eTA Fees

The eTA processing fee is approximately $48 USD. This covers the administrative processing of your pre-travel authorization. Additionally, Mozambique immigration authorities charge a separate Government Visa on Arrival fee payable in local currency (Mozambican Metical) at your port of entry. Confirm the current government fee on the official portal before travelling, as rates may change.

eVisa Fees

Tourist and Business eVisas cost approximately $190 USD for a 30-day permit. A 90-day multiple-entry eVisa costs approximately $500 USD. These fees are all-inclusive and cover the visa issuance; no additional government fee is payable on arrival for eVisa holders.

Rush Processing Options (Third-Party Service)

If you apply through a third-party visa service (not the official government portal), additional rush fees may apply:

• Standard Processing: 7–10 working days (no additional fee)
• Rush Processing: 5–7 working days ($59 USD additional)
• Super Rush Processing: 3–5 working days ($99 USD additional)

However, SafariFind recommends applying directly through evisa.gov.mz to avoid third-party markups and ensure direct communication with Mozambique's immigration authorities.

Payment Methods

The official portal accepts the following payment methods:

• Visa, Mastercard, American Express
• International debit cards (Visa or Mastercard branded)
• Other major credit cards accepted by the payment gateway

All transactions are SSL-encrypted and secure. Keep your payment confirmation and application reference number for your records.

Processing Times & Validity

eTA Processing

For the eTA, the government recommends applying at least 48 hours before your planned departure. In practice, approvals often arrive within 24 hours if submitted during business hours. However, do not rely on expedited processing; submit your application as early as possible to avoid delays.

If your application is found to have missing or incorrect documents, you will receive a preliminary rejection email clearly stating which documents are deficient. You then have 5 calendar days to upload corrected or missing documents through the application system. If you successfully resubmit within this window, processing continues. If the deadline passes without resubmission, your application is automatically rejected.

eVisa Processing

Standard eVisa processing takes approximately 5–9 business days after you submit your application and complete payment. Processing begins once Mozambique's immigration authority grants pre-approval and all physical documents are verified by the processing center.

Validity of Your Authorization

Both eTA and eVisa authorizations are valid for entry within a specific window from the date of issuance. Your eTA or eVisa approval email will specify this validity period. You must enter Mozambique before this date expires. Once you enter the country, your 30-day (or 90-day for multiple-entry visas) stay period begins and is counted from your date of entry, not the date of authorization.

What to Expect at Immigration on Arrival

Documents to Present

Upon arrival at any Mozambique port of entry (Maputo International Airport is the largest), be prepared to present:

• Your valid passport (same one used for the eTA/eVisa application)
• Your printed or digital eTA/eVisa confirmation
• Proof of accommodation (hotel booking, invitation letter, or Airbnb confirmation)
• Return or onward flight ticket
• Proof of financial means (bank statement or credit card)

Immigration Checks

Immigration officers will verify:

• Your passport validity (minimum 6 months remaining)
• Your eTA/eVisa status in the government system
• Your travel documents and accommodation proof
• Your purpose of visit (tourism, business, etc.)
• That your name, passport number, and biographical details match your application

The pre-authorization system means processing at the border is typically faster than it would be for a traditional visa application.

Government Fees on Arrival (eTA Holders Only)

If you are entering on an eTA, you may be required to pay a Government Visa on Arrival fee in local currency (Mozambican Metical) at the immigration counter. This fee is separate from your eTA processing fee paid online. Confirm the current amount before travelling; it is typically modest (USD equivalent of $10–30), but amounts vary. Bring some USD or major credit cards to exchange for local currency if needed.

Transit, Extensions & Overstays

Transit Through Mozambique

If you are transiting through Mozambique to another destination and do not intend to leave the airport, you may not need an eTA or eVisa. However, SafariFind strongly recommends confirming this with your airline before departure, as policies vary. If there is any possibility you will exit the airport (even to stretch your legs in a transit lounge outside security), obtain an eTA to avoid complications.

Extending Your Stay

If you need to extend your stay beyond 30 days while in Mozambique, you must apply for an extension through Mozambique's immigration authorities in-country. Extensions are not granted automatically and require justification (e.g., medical emergency, business requirement). Contact the nearest immigration office or your accommodation for guidance on the extension process. Plan ahead—do not assume an extension will be granted.

Overstaying Your Authorization

Overstaying your eTA or eVisa validity is a serious offense in Mozambique. Penalties include:

• Fines (amount varies by duration of overstay)
• Deportation and entry bans
• Detention pending removal
• Future visa denials for Mozambique and potentially other African countries

Depart Mozambique before your authorized stay expires. If you are unsure of your exact departure date, apply for a longer-validity visa (e.g., 90-day eVisa) rather than risk overstaying.

Common Mistakes & How to Avoid Rejection

Mistake 1: Mismatched Passport Information

Problem: Your name, date of birth, or passport number on the application does not match your physical passport exactly. This is the leading cause of rejection.

Solution: Copy passport details character-for-character from your passport bio-page. If your name includes special characters, accents, or middle names, ensure they are entered exactly as they appear in your passport. Do not abbreviate or alter your name.

Mistake 2: Submitting Poor-Quality Documents

Problem: Your passport scan is blurry, your photo does not meet specifications (wrong background, glasses, poor lighting), or your accommodation proof is illegible.

Solution: Scan your passport bio-page in high resolution (300 DPI minimum). Use the portal's integrated photo editor to ensure your passport photo meets the 2" × 2" white-background requirement. Confirm your accommodation booking is clear and shows your name and travel dates.

Mistake 3: Applying Too Close to Your Departure Date

Problem: You apply for an eTA only 24 hours before your flight, leaving no buffer for rejections or resubmissions.

Solution: Submit your eTA at least 3–5 days before departure, even though the minimum requirement is 48 hours. This gives you time to address any deficiencies without missing your flight.

Mistake 4: Choosing the Wrong Visa Category

Problem: You apply for an eTA when your itinerary requires a full eVisa (e.g., you plan to work or stay longer than 30 days). Your application is rejected or your authorization is invalid for your actual purpose.

Solution: Be honest about your travel purpose and duration. If you are unsure whether an eTA or eVisa is appropriate, contact the Mozambique immigration service or consult the official portal's FAQ section before applying.

Mistake 5: Not Printing Your Confirmation

Problem: You receive your eTA approval but fail to print it, relying only on a digital copy on your phone. Your phone battery dies at check-in, and the airline refuses to board you.

Solution: Print your eTA or eVisa confirmation PDF immediately upon receipt. Carry at least two printed copies—one in your passport and one in a separate bag. Keep a digital copy on your phone as a backup.

Mistake 6: Insufficient Financial Proof

Problem: Your bank statement shows minimal funds, and immigration questions your ability to support yourself in Mozambique.

Solution: Provide recent bank statements (within 3 months) showing a healthy balance. As a rough guide, aim to demonstrate at least $30–50 USD per day of your planned stay. If your balance is low, provide additional documentation such as a credit card statement or a letter of financial support from a sponsor.

Comparing Mozambique to Neighbouring Destinations

If you are planning a broader Southern African safari, you may be comparing Mozambique to other countries in the region. For context: Swiss citizens also require visas or eVisas for neighbouring countries with similar requirements. Mozambique's eTA system is relatively streamlined compared to traditional visa applications, making it an efficient choice for safari travellers. SafariFind's marketplace allows you to compare Mozambique safari packages with those in other countries to find the best fit for your travel dates and budget.

Before your trip, also confirm current health and vaccination requirements for Mozambique, as these are separate from visa regulations and equally important for your journey.

Contact Information & Resources

Official Mozambique Immigration Portal

Website: evisa.gov.mz

Support: The portal includes a comprehensive FAQ section and 24/7 customer support for technical issues.

Swiss Representation in Mozambique

Switzerland does not maintain a dedicated embassy in Mozambique. Swiss citizens requiring consular assistance should contact:

Swiss Embassy in South Africa (covering Mozambique):
Pretoria, South Africa
Website: eda.admin.ch

For emergency assistance, contact the Swiss Federal Department of Foreign Affairs emergency line.

Mozambique High Commission in the United Kingdom

For European-based Swiss citizens, the Mozambique High Commission in London also provides visa information:

Phone: +44 (0) 207 383 3800
Email: sectorconsular@mozambiquehc.co.uk

Key Takeaways for Swiss Travellers

• eTA is mandatory: Swiss citizens must obtain an eTA before departing Switzerland, even though Mozambique is visa-exempt for Swiss passport holders.
• Apply early: Submit your eTA at least 3–5 days before departure, even though the minimum is 48 hours.
• Use the official portal: Apply only at evisa.gov.mz to avoid inflated third-party fees and ensure direct government processing.
• Print your approval: Carry a printed copy of your eTA confirmation—airlines and immigration will require it.
• Accuracy is critical: Ensure all passport details match exactly between your application and your physical document.
• Plan for the government fee: Budget for a small Visa on Arrival government fee payable in local currency at immigration (eTA holders only).
• Passport validity: Your passport must have at least 6 months of validity remaining and a minimum of three blank pages.

Last checked July 2026 — always confirm with official sources before travelling.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do Swiss citizens need a visa for Mozambique?

Swiss citizens do not need a traditional visa for tourism or business stays up to 30 days in Mozambique. However, as of February 2026, an Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA) is now mandatory and must be obtained online before departure. The eTA is a pre-travel digital authorization that must be approved at least 48 hours before your flight; it cannot be obtained on arrival.

How much does a Mozambique eTA for Swiss citizens cost?

The eTA processing fee is approximately $48 USD, paid online during your application. Additionally, Mozambique immigration charges a separate Government Visa on Arrival fee in local currency at your port of entry; confirm the current amount on the official portal before travelling.

How long does it take to get a Mozambique eTA for Swiss citizens?

The eTA should be submitted at least 48 hours before your planned departure, though approvals often arrive within 24 hours if submitted during business hours. SafariFind recommends applying 3–5 days in advance to allow time for any document corrections.

What documents do Swiss citizens need to apply for a Mozambique eTA?

You will need: a valid passport (6+ months validity, 3+ blank pages), a recent passport-sized colour photo (2" × 2", white background, no glasses), proof of accommodation (hotel booking or invitation letter), return or onward flight tickets, and recent bank statements showing sufficient funds. All documents must be uploaded in digital format to the official portal.

Can Swiss citizens get a Mozambique visa on arrival?

No. Swiss citizens cannot obtain a visa on arrival in Mozambique. You must secure either an eTA or full eVisa before departure through the official portal evisa.gov.mz.

What is the difference between a Mozambique eTA and eVisa for Swiss citizens?

The eTA is a pre-travel authorization for short-term tourism or business visits up to 30 days and costs approximately $48 USD. The eVisa is a full visa for longer stays (30–90 days), work, or complex itineraries and costs approximately $190–$500 USD. Both must be obtained before departure, but the eVisa offers more flexibility for extended stays and multiple entries.

How long is a Mozambique eTA valid for Swiss citizens?

An eTA permits a single entry and a maximum stay of 30 days in Mozambique. The authorization is valid for entry within a specified window from the date of issuance (typically 6 months). Once you enter the country, your 30-day stay period begins from your date of entry.

What happens if a Swiss citizen overstays their Mozambique eTA?

Overstaying your eTA is a serious offense and can result in fines, deportation, entry bans, and future visa denials for Mozambique and other African countries. Always depart before your authorized stay expires. If unsure of your exact departure date, apply for a longer-validity visa (e.g., 90-day eVisa).

Where do Swiss citizens apply for a Mozambique eTA?

Apply exclusively at evisa.gov.mz, the official Mozambique government portal. Do not use third-party visa websites, which may charge inflated fees and are not authorized by the government. The portal was relaunched on 11 February 2026 with a new digital system.

What should Swiss citizens do if their Mozambique eTA application is rejected?

If your application is rejected due to missing or incorrect documents, you will receive a preliminary rejection email explaining the deficiency. You then have 5 calendar days to upload corrected or missing documents through the application system. If you successfully resubmit within this window, processing continues. If the deadline passes, your application is automatically rejected and you must reapply.

Do Swiss citizens need to print their Mozambique eTA confirmation?

Yes. You must print your eTA confirmation PDF immediately upon receipt and carry it with you. Present the printed copy at check-in before boarding your flight and again at immigration on arrival in Mozambique. You may also display the PDF on a mobile device, but a printed backup is strongly recommended.

How many blank pages must a Swiss citizen's passport have for Mozambique entry?

Your passport must have a minimum of three blank pages for entry and exit stamps upon arrival and departure from Mozambique. Amendment pages at the back of your passport cannot be used for entry/exit stamps or visa issuance.