Travel Advisory for Republic of Mozambique
This page provides a comprehensive comparison of official government travel advisories for Republic of Mozambique from multiple trusted international sources including the United States, Canada, United Kingdom, Australia, France, Spain, Ireland, and Japan. Each government assesses travel risks independently based on their own intelligence, diplomatic relationships, and risk assessment criteria. By comparing these different perspectives, travelers can make more informed decisions about their safety and security when visiting Republic of Mozambique.
The information below is aggregated from official government sources and analyzed to provide you with a unified view of the current travel situation. Last updated: 2026-08-23
AdvisoryAtlas.com Risk Level
Level 4 - Do Not Travel
Range: Level 2 to Level 4
AdvisoryAtlas.com Safety Index
35
Safety Index Score
Overview
Mozambique presents a complex safety landscape, requiring a high degree of caution due to prevalent crime, civil unrest, and terrorism, especially in northern provinces. While tourist areas may offer relative calm, vigilance and adherence to local advisories are crucial for all travelers. Health infrastructure is limited, necessitating comprehensive travel insurance and careful health planning.
Detailed Advisory Summary
Travel to Mozambique demands a proactive approach to personal safety and health, as the nation navigates challenges across several fronts. Northern provinces, particularly Cabo Delgado and parts of Nampula and Niassa, are subject to severe advisories against all travel due to ongoing insurgency, militant attacks, kidnappings, and violent clashes. These areas pose an extreme threat of terrorism, with militants targeting both security forces and civilians, and even extending to tourist destinations like upscale hunting lodges.
Beyond these high-risk zones, a high degree of caution is recommended for the rest of the country. Crime, including petty theft, muggings, armed robbery, and carjackings, is a significant concern, especially in major cities like Maputo, Matola, and Beira. Kidnappings for ransom, though often targeting wealthy locals, can affect foreigners, underscoring the need for discretion and varied routines.
Political stability can be volatile, with demonstrations and civil unrest possible at short notice, potentially escalating to violence or disrupting transport and essential services. Road conditions outside major cities are often poor, and driving habits can be reckless, leading to frequent and sometimes fatal accidents. Night travel by road is strongly discouraged. Public transportation, particularly chapas (minibuses), is often overcrowded and poorly maintained, contributing to high accident rates.
Health infrastructure is rudimentary across much of the country, with limited medical facilities and medication availability. Serious illnesses or injuries often necessitate medical evacuation to South Africa, making comprehensive travel insurance with medical evacuation coverage essential. Malaria is endemic, and other insect-borne diseases, as well as waterborne and foodborne illnesses like cholera, are prevalent, requiring strict hygiene and prophylactic measures.
Cultural norms generally lean towards conservatism; travelers should dress modestly and behave discreetly. Local laws are strictly enforced, especially regarding drug offenses and unauthorized photography of government or military installations. Dual citizenship is recognized, but can impact consular assistance. Overall, a well-researched itinerary, robust insurance, and constant awareness are key to a safer experience in Mozambique.
Beyond these high-risk zones, a high degree of caution is recommended for the rest of the country. Crime, including petty theft, muggings, armed robbery, and carjackings, is a significant concern, especially in major cities like Maputo, Matola, and Beira. Kidnappings for ransom, though often targeting wealthy locals, can affect foreigners, underscoring the need for discretion and varied routines.
Political stability can be volatile, with demonstrations and civil unrest possible at short notice, potentially escalating to violence or disrupting transport and essential services. Road conditions outside major cities are often poor, and driving habits can be reckless, leading to frequent and sometimes fatal accidents. Night travel by road is strongly discouraged. Public transportation, particularly chapas (minibuses), is often overcrowded and poorly maintained, contributing to high accident rates.
Health infrastructure is rudimentary across much of the country, with limited medical facilities and medication availability. Serious illnesses or injuries often necessitate medical evacuation to South Africa, making comprehensive travel insurance with medical evacuation coverage essential. Malaria is endemic, and other insect-borne diseases, as well as waterborne and foodborne illnesses like cholera, are prevalent, requiring strict hygiene and prophylactic measures.
Cultural norms generally lean towards conservatism; travelers should dress modestly and behave discreetly. Local laws are strictly enforced, especially regarding drug offenses and unauthorized photography of government or military installations. Dual citizenship is recognized, but can impact consular assistance. Overall, a well-researched itinerary, robust insurance, and constant awareness are key to a safer experience in Mozambique.
Risk Level Summary by Government Source
| Source | Risk Level | Updated | Official Link |
|---|---|---|---|
| Global Affairs Canada | Level 4 - Do Not Travel | 2026-08-20 | View Source → |
| U.S. Department of State | Level 4 - Do Not Travel | 2026-06-26 | View Source → |
| Ministère des Affaires Étrangères | Level 4 - Do Not Travel | 2026-07-07 | View Source → |
| Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office | Level 4 - Do Not Travel | 2026-08-20 | View Source → |
| Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade | Level 4 - Do Not Travel | 2026-08-05 | View Source → |
| Ministerio de Asuntos Exteriores | Level 4 - Do Not Travel | 2026-05-14 | View Source → |
| Department of Foreign Affairs (Ireland) | Level 3 - Reconsider Travel | 2026-05-07 | View Source → |
| Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Japan | Level 4 - Do Not Travel | 2026-07-21 | View Source → |
| Auswärtiges Amt | Level 4 - Do Not Travel | 2026-07-09 | View Source → |
| New Zealand Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade | Level 4 - Do Not Travel | 2026-06-07 | View Source → |
| Département fédéral des affaires étrangères (DFAE) | Level 2 - Exercise Increased Caution | 2026-02-23 | View Source → |
| Regjeringen (Norway) | Level 4 - Do Not Travel | 2026-05-27 | View Source → |
| Nederland Wereldwijd (Netherlands) | Level 4 - Do Not Travel | 2026-08-25 | View Source → |
| Viaggiare Sicuri (Italy) | Level 4 - Do Not Travel | 2026-07-13 | View Source → |
| BMEIA (Austria) | Level 4 - Do Not Travel | 2026-08-07 | View Source → |
| 0404 (Korea) | Level 4 - Do Not Travel | 2026-07-30 | View Source → |
| Ministry for Foreign Affairs (Finland) | Level 3 - Reconsider Travel | 2026-07-14 | View Source → |
Safety and Security Analysis
Vaccination Information
Required Vaccines
- Yellow Fever: Required for travelers coming from or transiting through a country with yellow fever transmission risk.
- Polio: May be required for travelers staying 4 weeks or more, recorded on an International Certificate of Vaccination or Prophylaxis (ICVP), or if coming from a poliovirus-infected country.
Recommended for Most Travelers
- Routine Vaccinations: Ensure all routine vaccinations (e.g., Measles, Mumps, Rubella (MMR), Diphtheria, Tetanus, Pertussis, Polio, Varicella) are up-to-date.
- Hepatitis A: Recommended for all travelers due to risk of contaminated food/water.
- Malaria Prophylaxis: Strongly recommended for most travelers to this destination, as malaria is a serious risk throughout the country.
Recommended for Some Travelers
- Typhoid: Recommended based on conditions and duration of stay, especially in areas with poor sanitation.
- Hepatitis B: Recommended for travelers with potential exposure to blood or bodily fluids (e.g., sexual contact, medical treatment, extended stays).
- Tuberculosis: Recommended for children under 15 in case of frequent or prolonged stays or exposure to high-risk environments.
- Rabies: Recommended for those at higher risk of exposure, such as veterinarians, wildlife workers, children, adventure travelers, or those in close contact with animals.
- Chikungunya: Consider vaccination or protection from mosquito bites, especially during epidemics or prolonged stays.
- Dengue: Protect against mosquito bites; a vaccine is approved in Canada, but not widely available in Canada or recommended for all travelers.
- Mpox: Vaccination may be indicated for high-risk travelers or in case of epidemic exposure.
Consult a travel health care provider well in advance of your trip to discuss appropriate vaccinations and medications based on your itinerary and activities. Strict food and water precautions are essential, including drinking only boiled or bottled water and avoiding raw or undercooked food. Protect against mosquito bites at all times by using repellents, wearing protective clothing, and sleeping under insecticide-treated bed nets. Maintain excellent personal hygiene, especially frequent handwashing. Be aware of the high HIV/AIDS infection rate and take appropriate precautions.
Visa Information
Visa Types
| Type | Requirement | Stay Limit | Cost | Conditions | Details |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Tourist | e-Visa pre-authorization / Visa on Arrival (for some nationalities) | 30 days (extendable to 90 days/year) | 650 MZN + 2400 MZN service fee (approx. 40-47 USD/EUR) | ETA obtained 48h-5 days prior, proof of accommodation, return ticket, sufficient funds. |
|
| Business | e-Visa pre-authorization / Visa on Arrival (for some nationalities) | 30 days (extendable to 90 days/year) | 650 MZN + 2400 MZN service fee (approx. 40-47 USD/EUR) | ETA obtained 48h-5 days prior, proof of accommodation, return ticket, invitation letter. |
|
| Visitor (Private Invitation) | Embassy / e-Visa pre-authorization (Border Visa section) | Check Embassy/e-Visa | Approx. 50 EUR (payable on arrival for pre-approved) | Notarized letter of support from host, host's status proof (DIRE/visa/passport), host informs SENAMI within 5 days. |
|
| Work | Embassy / Consulate | Check Embassy | Check Embassy | Specific documentation required, not eligible for e-visa on arrival. |
|
| Student | Embassy / Consulate | Check Embassy | Check Embassy | Specific documentation required, not eligible for e-visa on arrival. |
|
| Residency | Embassy / Consulate | Check Embassy | Check Embassy | Specific documentation required, not eligible for e-visa on arrival. |
|
| Diplomatic / Official | Embassy / Consulate | Check Embassy | Check Embassy | Exempt for short-stay for diplomatic passport holders (e.g., France). |
|
| Crew Member / Humanitarian / Sports & Cultural / Investor | e-Visa pre-authorization | Check e-Visa portal | Check e-Visa portal | Pre-authorization via e-visa portal; not guaranteed visas, final decision upon arrival. |
|
Entry & Legal Compliance
- Passport Validity Needed: 6 months beyond expected departure date
- Blank Pages Required: 2
- Dual Citizenship Policy: Recognized
- Proof Of Onward Travel: Required (return or onward ticket)
- Currency Limit Declaration: USD 5,000 or MZN 10,000 (must declare amounts exceeding this)
- Drone Usage Law: Not explicitly mentioned, assume local regulations apply and seek permission.
Emergency Contacts
- Police: 112 or 119 (General) / +25821490147 or +258829286150 or +258849350230 (Maputo 24h hotline) / +25821498147 or +25821720442 or +25821720206 (Tourist Police)
- Ambulance: 845555911 or 8491182911 (Aeromed local service) / 21322222 / 114 (Austria source) / 115 (Public service, Japan source)
- Firefighters: +258824768990 / 198
Common Scams & Tourist Traps
- Be wary of online scams involving promises of large inheritances that require international travel, which can trick victims into becoming unwitting narcotics traffickers.
- Exercise caution with credit card and ATM fraud, including card cloning; use ATMs in well-lit public areas and cover the keypad when entering your PIN.
- Police officers may attempt to extort bribes from drivers and pedestrians, especially if proper documentation is not carried.
Cultural Etiquette in Republic of Mozambique
Do
- Dress conservatively and behave discreetly to show respect for local religious and social traditions, especially when visiting places of worship.
- Always carry valid identification (original passport or authenticated copy) as local authorities may request to see it at any time.
- When interacting with police, remain calm and courteous but firm, especially if threatened with a fine, and ask for a written explanation of the offense.
Don't
- Avoid showing signs of affluence, such as wearing expensive jewelry or displaying large sums of cash, to reduce the risk of becoming a target for criminals.
- Do not drink alcohol on public beaches, as this is illegal and can lead to fines.
- Refrain from photographing government offices, airports, military establishments, or police/officials without explicit permission.
Advisory Comparison by Government Source
Global Affairs Canada
Updated: 2026-08-20
The Canadian advisory highlights a "high degree of caution" for Mozambique overall, with specific "avoid all travel" advisories for Cabo Delgado Province (excluding Pemba City) and parts of Nampula and Niassa due to insurgency and militant attacks. It uniquely details the increased traffic and associated risks (accidents, robberies) at the border with South Africa, advising travelers to keep doors locked and plan for delays.
The advisory also provides extensive detail on various crime types, from petty crime in Maputo to violent crime in major cities and kidnappings, noting that while locals are primary targets, foreigners have also been affected. It offers practical advice for road safety, emphasizing poor conditions, reckless driving, and the unreliability of chapas. Furthermore, it outlines the specific requirements for visa exemption, including an Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) and proof of onward travel and accommodation, along with nuances for visa extensions and penalties for overstaying.
The advisory also provides extensive detail on various crime types, from petty crime in Maputo to violent crime in major cities and kidnappings, noting that while locals are primary targets, foreigners have also been affected. It offers practical advice for road safety, emphasizing poor conditions, reckless driving, and the unreliability of chapas. Furthermore, it outlines the specific requirements for visa exemption, including an Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) and proof of onward travel and accommodation, along with nuances for visa extensions and penalties for overstaying.
U.S. Department of State
Updated: 2026-06-26
The U.S. Department of State advises "Level 2: Exercise Increased Caution" for Mozambique, but designates Cabo Delgado Province, Niassa Special Reserve, and certain Nampula districts as "Level 4: Do Not Travel" due to terrorism. It specifically notes that upscale lodges catering to international big-game hunters have been targeted by terrorists, and warns of the increasing sophistication of extremist forces.
This advisory highlights the weak health infrastructure and variable medicine availability, requiring upfront cash payments and recommending medical evacuation insurance. It provides a unique insight into the technical issues with the Mozambican e-visa website, advising U.S. citizens to follow specific guidance for tourism/business entries without a visa but with an invitation letter. Additionally, it details that U.S. government personnel are prohibited from traveling outside major cities after dark by car due to increased risk of banditry and poor road conditions.
This advisory highlights the weak health infrastructure and variable medicine availability, requiring upfront cash payments and recommending medical evacuation insurance. It provides a unique insight into the technical issues with the Mozambican e-visa website, advising U.S. citizens to follow specific guidance for tourism/business entries without a visa but with an invitation letter. Additionally, it details that U.S. government personnel are prohibited from traveling outside major cities after dark by car due to increased risk of banditry and poor road conditions.
Ministère des Affaires Étrangères
Updated: 2026-07-07
France Diplomatie categorizes regions into "formellement déconseillées" (red), "déconseillées sauf raison impérative" (orange), and "vigilance renforcée" (yellow), providing a granular risk assessment for different parts of Mozambique. It specifically warns against travel to all of Cabo Delgado, including Pemba, and several districts in Nampula and Niassa due to Islamist-inspired terrorist attacks and kidnappings.
The advisory emphasizes a recent increase in common law delinquency in Maputo and other urban centers since 2025, attributing it to economic degradation and noting a recurrence of kidnappings for ransom. It also provides detailed road safety warnings, highlighting dangerous overtaking practices, the poor state of roads outside major cities, and the absolute need to avoid night driving. Uniquely, it mentions the 2024 agreement for diplomatic passport holders to be visa-exempt for short stays, while service passport holders still require a visa.
The advisory emphasizes a recent increase in common law delinquency in Maputo and other urban centers since 2025, attributing it to economic degradation and noting a recurrence of kidnappings for ransom. It also provides detailed road safety warnings, highlighting dangerous overtaking practices, the poor state of roads outside major cities, and the absolute need to avoid night driving. Uniquely, it mentions the 2024 agreement for diplomatic passport holders to be visa-exempt for short stays, while service passport holders still require a visa.
Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office
Updated: 2026-08-20
The FCDO advises against all travel to parts of Cabo Delgado, Nampula (Memba and Eráti districts), and Niassa (Mecula and Marrupo districts) due to the high threat of terrorism from IS-Mozambique (IS-M) and associated kidnappings. It highlights that attacks could be indiscriminate and target places frequented by foreign nationals, including safari or hunting parks, and that British nationals are seen as legitimate targets.
It provides specific advice on police harassment and corruption, recommending travelers report incidents to the British High Commission and insist on written fines rather than paying bribes. The advisory also details the legal requirement to carry original personal ID at all times, as copies or photos are not accepted by police. Furthermore, it explicitly states that it is illegal to drink alcohol on public beaches and warns against drug offenses, which carry severe penalties.
It provides specific advice on police harassment and corruption, recommending travelers report incidents to the British High Commission and insist on written fines rather than paying bribes. The advisory also details the legal requirement to carry original personal ID at all times, as copies or photos are not accepted by police. Furthermore, it explicitly states that it is illegal to drink alcohol on public beaches and warns against drug offenses, which carry severe penalties.
Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade
Updated: 2026-08-05
Australia advises a "high degree of caution" overall, with "do not travel" to Cabo Delgado and specific Nampula districts due to an extreme threat of terrorism, kidnapping, and ongoing clashes. It also advises against travel on certain sections of the EN1 and EN6 roads due to armed attacks on vehicles. It uniquely highlights the risk of drink spiking and methanol poisoning from consuming poor-quality alcoholic drinks, advising travelers to only drink branded, sealed products.
The advisory emphasizes that terrorism is a threat to foreign nationals and interests, including in towns where foreign companies operate and expatriate staff reside, and that attacks can happen anywhere, anytime. It provides detailed guidance on traveling with children under 18, requiring birth certificates and notarized parental consent affidavits. It also points out that while all known minefields are cleared, risks remain in remote areas, advising to stick to well-traveled roads, particularly in central and southern provinces.
The advisory emphasizes that terrorism is a threat to foreign nationals and interests, including in towns where foreign companies operate and expatriate staff reside, and that attacks can happen anywhere, anytime. It provides detailed guidance on traveling with children under 18, requiring birth certificates and notarized parental consent affidavits. It also points out that while all known minefields are cleared, risks remain in remote areas, advising to stick to well-traveled roads, particularly in central and southern provinces.
Ministerio de Asuntos Exteriores
Updated: 2026-05-14
Spain's Ministry of Foreign Affairs strongly recommends exercising extreme caution and avoiding travel to Cabo Delgado province, as well as the eastern part of Niassa province and the northern part of Nampula province due to terrorism and armed group activity. Travel between Pemba and Nampula is also discouraged due to terrorist activity. The country experienced post-election instability in late 2024, which has stabilized but could change rapidly. Road travel is particularly risky due to poor road conditions and high accident rates; night driving outside urban areas is strongly advised against. Public transport is not recommended due to poor vehicle conditions and dangerous driving. Robberies and assaults are common, especially in Maputo, with specific areas of risk identified. Kidnappings for ransom are increasing and affect both locals and foreigners. Entry requires a passport valid for over six months with at least two free pages. Spanish citizens do not need a visa for tourist or business stays up to 30 days but must obtain an Electronic Entry Permit (e-Visa) online at least five days before travel. Yellow Fever vaccination is required if coming from an endemic country within the previous three months. Recommended vaccinations include typhoid, hepatitis A and B, and meningitis. Health conditions are very poor, with limited public healthcare and few qualified personnel, especially in rural areas. Private clinics in Maputo offer better services at high prices. Comprehensive medical and travel insurance including emergency evacuation is highly recommended. Waterborne diseases like cholera and malaria are risks, especially in rural areas and during the rainy season. Driving is on the left, and road safety is a major concern. Drug offenses carry severe penalties.
Department of Foreign Affairs (Ireland)
Updated: 2026-05-07
Ireland.ie maintains a "High Degree of Caution" for Mozambique, with a strict "do not travel" advisory for Cabo Delgado and specific Nampula districts due to ongoing violent insurgency since October 2017. It notes that several months of unrest followed contested October 2024 elections, although the situation has significantly improved, a reduced possibility of future unrest remains.
The advisory specifies that Irish passport holders for tourism or business can enter without a visa for 30 days upon payment of 650 Meticais (approx. €10) and proof of accommodation/return ticket, advising to keep the receipt. It also provides practical advice on car crime and car-jacking, suggesting keeping doors locked and windows up, and offering small payments to individuals who offer to watch your car to avoid negative reactions. Uniquely, it mentions the risk of HIV/AIDS infection as high and advises appropriate precautions.
The advisory specifies that Irish passport holders for tourism or business can enter without a visa for 30 days upon payment of 650 Meticais (approx. €10) and proof of accommodation/return ticket, advising to keep the receipt. It also provides practical advice on car crime and car-jacking, suggesting keeping doors locked and windows up, and offering small payments to individuals who offer to watch your car to avoid negative reactions. Uniquely, it mentions the risk of HIV/AIDS infection as high and advises appropriate precautions.
Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Japan
Updated: 2026-07-21
Japan's advisory issues a "Level 3: Do Not Travel" for Cabo Delgado (excluding Pemba) and parts of Nampula, and "Level 2: Avoid Non-Essential Travel" for Pemba City and Mecula District in Niassa, citing persistent armed attacks by militants. It notes a reduction to "Level 1: Exercise Sufficient Caution" for Maputo and other regions due to the calming of post-election protests from October 2024.
The advisory highlights that Japanese nationals are visa-exempt for tourism/business short stays since March 31, 2023, requiring a 650 Metical fee on arrival. It also provides unique details on customs regulations, such as declaring new laptops and digital cameras, and the need for English or Portuguese prescriptions for opioid or psychotropic medications. It emphasizes the danger of pickpocketing on chapas (shared taxis) and the importance of negotiating taxi fares in advance as meters are not used.
The advisory highlights that Japanese nationals are visa-exempt for tourism/business short stays since March 31, 2023, requiring a 650 Metical fee on arrival. It also provides unique details on customs regulations, such as declaring new laptops and digital cameras, and the need for English or Portuguese prescriptions for opioid or psychotropic medications. It emphasizes the danger of pickpocketing on chapas (shared taxis) and the importance of negotiating taxi fares in advance as meters are not used.
Auswärtiges Amt
Updated: 2026-07-09
New Zealand Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade
Updated: 2026-06-07
New Zealand advises "Exercise increased caution" overall, with "do not travel" to specific districts in Cabo Delgado and Nampula provinces due to ongoing violent clashes and terrorism. It specifically notes that kidnapping for financial gain occurs in larger cities like Maputo, Matola, and Beira, with foreigners targeted for their perceived wealth. The advisory emphasizes that New Zealand has no diplomatic presence in Mozambique, significantly limiting the government's ability to provide consular assistance.
It highlights that ongoing protests across Mozambique have resulted in deaths, property destruction, and travel disruptions, including to and from the airport, with temporary roadblocks and border closures possible. The advisory also details that police officers have been known to solicit bribes at checkpoints, advising travelers to ask for an explanation of the offense and request a written fine payable at a local police station. It uniquely mentions the risk of African sleeping sickness as an insect-borne disease.
It highlights that ongoing protests across Mozambique have resulted in deaths, property destruction, and travel disruptions, including to and from the airport, with temporary roadblocks and border closures possible. The advisory also details that police officers have been known to solicit bribes at checkpoints, advising travelers to ask for an explanation of the offense and request a written fine payable at a local police station. It uniquely mentions the risk of African sleeping sickness as an insect-borne disease.
Département fédéral des affaires étrangères (DFAE)
Updated: 2026-02-23
The Swiss advisory emphasizes a tense political, social, and economic situation, warning that demonstrations can lead to violence, roadblocks, and confrontations with security forces using live ammunition. It advises against travel to Cabo Delgado, Nampula, and Niassa provinces due to armed attacks by terrorist groups and a high risk of kidnapping, including in Maputo.
It provides practical crime prevention advice, such as never walking alone after nightfall and traveling exclusively during the day within the country. Uniquely, it highlights that the safety standards for domestic flights do not meet European or international norms. The advisory also points out that corruption is widespread among the police, advising a calm but polite defense of interests. It also mentions the prohibition of alcohol consumption on public beaches and the severe penalties for drug offenses.
It provides practical crime prevention advice, such as never walking alone after nightfall and traveling exclusively during the day within the country. Uniquely, it highlights that the safety standards for domestic flights do not meet European or international norms. The advisory also points out that corruption is widespread among the police, advising a calm but polite defense of interests. It also mentions the prohibition of alcohol consumption on public beaches and the severe penalties for drug offenses.
Regjeringen (Norway)
Updated: 2026-05-27
Nederland Wereldwijd (Netherlands)
Updated: 2026-08-25
The Dutch advisory uses a color-coded system, with "red" for northeastern Cabo Delgado due to extreme violence between militant groups and the army, and "orange" for the rest of Cabo Delgado and specific Nampula districts, indicating only necessary travel. It notes an increase in terrorist attacks spreading from Cabo Delgado to northern Nampula.
It provides a specific warning about pirate activity in the Indian Ocean, advising to take precautions and stay far from the Cabo Delgado coast. The advisory also details the conditions for Dutch citizens to enter Mozambique visa-free for tourism or business up to 30 days, requiring online registration at least 2 days prior and presentation of a registration certificate upon departure. It uniquely advises that if traveling with children, specific documents are needed to prevent problems at border controls.
It provides a specific warning about pirate activity in the Indian Ocean, advising to take precautions and stay far from the Cabo Delgado coast. The advisory also details the conditions for Dutch citizens to enter Mozambique visa-free for tourism or business up to 30 days, requiring online registration at least 2 days prior and presentation of a registration certificate upon departure. It uniquely advises that if traveling with children, specific documents are needed to prevent problems at border controls.
Viaggiare Sicuri (Italy)
Updated: 2026-07-13
Italy's advisory indicates a volatile security situation with recent unrest, roadblocks, and strikes, though showing gradual improvement. It specifies that Maputo is not exempt from petty crime, especially in peripheral and historical areas, and notes ongoing kidnappings for extortion targeting the Mozambican Asian merchant community, though not yet involving foreign nationals.
The advisory details that Italian citizens for tourism or business are visa-exempt for 30 days (multiple entries) since April 30, 2023, requiring a pre-approved ETA through evisa.gov.mz at a cost of 3050 Metical (approx. 40 Euro). It uniquely warns about the unreliability of the e-visa portal and advises keeping proof of system failure. It also provides specific advice on local craft purchases, warning that stone or wooden objects might be deemed illegal if made from illicit materials like ivory, and advises contacting the Embassy if stopped at the airport for such items.
The advisory details that Italian citizens for tourism or business are visa-exempt for 30 days (multiple entries) since April 30, 2023, requiring a pre-approved ETA through evisa.gov.mz at a cost of 3050 Metical (approx. 40 Euro). It uniquely warns about the unreliability of the e-visa portal and advises keeping proof of system failure. It also provides specific advice on local craft purchases, warning that stone or wooden objects might be deemed illegal if made from illicit materials like ivory, and advises contacting the Embassy if stopped at the airport for such items.
BMEIA (Austria)
Updated: 2026-08-07
Austria's advisory assigns a "Security Level 4" (regional warning) for Cabo Delgado and specific Nampula districts due to violent attacks by Islamist groups and widespread criminality. It warns of potential terrorist attacks in other cities where international firms and foreigners are present. For the rest of the country, a "Security Level 2" is advised, urging caution, avoiding crowds, and nighttime overland travel.
It uniquely provides specific police hotlines for Maputo, including a 24-hour line, and clarifies that only traffic police can issue traffic fines (payable at a police station with a receipt). The advisory mentions that the e-Visa system is technically unreliable, recommending applying via Mozambican foreign representations instead. It also specifies import/export limits for cash (USD 10,000, MZN 10,000) and prohibits the export of shells and antique coins. Furthermore, it highlights a heightened malaria risk during the rainy season (November to February) and increased cholera risk in areas with poor water supply.
It uniquely provides specific police hotlines for Maputo, including a 24-hour line, and clarifies that only traffic police can issue traffic fines (payable at a police station with a receipt). The advisory mentions that the e-Visa system is technically unreliable, recommending applying via Mozambican foreign representations instead. It also specifies import/export limits for cash (USD 10,000, MZN 10,000) and prohibits the export of shells and antique coins. Furthermore, it highlights a heightened malaria risk during the rainy season (November to February) and increased cholera risk in areas with poor water supply.
0404 (Korea)
Updated: 2026-07-30
Ministry for Foreign Affairs (Finland)
Updated: 2026-07-14
Finland advises special caution in Mozambique, with a recommendation to avoid non-essential travel to Cabo Delgado province, the eastern part of Niassa province, and the northern part of Nampula province due to active terrorist groups and ongoing violent clashes. The security situation can change rapidly, and while post-election protests in late 2024 have calmed, further demonstrations are possible. Crime, including pickpocketing and property crimes, has increased, linked to the weak economy, with risks rising during holiday seasons. Tourists are often targets, and moving alone or after dark, especially on Maputo's beaches or in certain central areas, is discouraged. A confirmed passport copy, notarized by the embassy or a notary, is recommended. Road traffic is hazardous due to poor vehicle conditions, disregard for rules, and potential for police seeking bribes or carjackings. Night driving outside cities is not recommended. Public transport, particularly 'chapas', is considered unsafe. Tropical storms are likely between November and April, causing floods and travel disruptions. Malaria is prevalent, and protection against mosquito bites is crucial; consultation with a doctor regarding antimalarial medication is advised. HIV rates are high. Tap water is not potable, and cholera outbreaks have occurred, necessitating strict hygiene. Healthcare and hospital preparedness are weak, with limited medication availability, and medical evacuation to South Africa may be necessary. Entry for tourism or business for up to 30 days is visa-free, but requires registration on an electronic travel authorization (ETA) service. Yellow Fever vaccination may be required if arriving from high-risk countries. The attitude towards sexual minorities is generally permissive, but public displays of affection should be avoided.
Important: This is an aggregated summary from multiple government sources. Always consult official government travel advisory websites before making travel decisions.
About Travel Advisories for Republic of Mozambique
This comprehensive travel advisory page for Republic of Mozambique aggregates official government warnings and recommendations from eight major international sources. Each country's foreign affairs department maintains its own travel advisory system based on unique assessment criteria, intelligence gathering, and diplomatic considerations.
The United States Department of State, Global Affairs Canada, UK Foreign Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO), Australia's Smartraveller, France's Ministry of Europe and Foreign Affairs, Spain's Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Ireland's Department of Foreign Affairs, and Japan's Ministry of Foreign Affairs each provide independent assessments of travel risks to Republic of Mozambique.
By comparing these multiple perspectives, travelers can gain a more complete understanding of the current situation in Republic of Mozambique and make better-informed decisions about their travel plans. Remember to always check the official government websites directly before finalizing any travel arrangements.
Last updated: 2026-08-23