Mozambique’s tourism sector has been caught off guard by the sudden implementation of a new e-visa and electronic travel authorisation (ETA) system launched in collaboration with VFS Global.
Natalie Tenzer-Silva, Director of Dana Tours, expressed “deep concern” about the manner in which the new e-visa system was implemented.
“A significant concern is the complete lack of stakeholder engagement. The tourism industry was given no advance notice, consultation period or transition timeline,” said Tenzer-Silva.
The new ETA system requires travellers from 29 countries to pay US$48, which is an almost five-fold increase from the previous US$10.
“For a family of four from key source markets like the UK or US, entry costs have increased from around US$40 to nearly US$200 overnight. When Mozambique is competing with regional destinations that offer genuine visa-free access from these important source markets, this creates an immediate competitive disadvantage,” Tenzer-Silva said.
The ETA pathway includes a list of 29 previously visa-exempt countries, including the US and UK, plus multiple European and other nations.
“We are concerned this could significantly impact the Visit Mozambique initiative. If the goal is to increase tourism, introducing substantial cost barriers and administrative friction for travellers from these 29 countries seems counterproductive.”
She said, while Dana Tours recognises VFS Global’s technical capabilities and digital innovation, the success of any visa system needs to be measured by the ability to facilitate travel.
“The government needs to demonstrate that this digital transformation genuinely serves Mozambique’s tourism ambitions – not just administrative convenience. We urgently call for a stakeholder consultation process to address these concerns before further damage is done to Mozambique’s reputation as a welcoming destination.”
