Today, the Council of Ministers in Mozambique has approved a decree that grants visa exemption to 28 countries for both tourism and business purposes. This exemption is available to visitors who hold ordinary passports and permits a stay of up to 30 days, which can be extended for an additional 60 days.

To qualify for this visa exemption, travelers must follow a process similar to the US visa waiver program, which requires them to register on a pre-screening platform at least 48 hours before their travel date. Additionally, they are expected to pay a processing fee of MZN650 (approximately £8.50).

The list approved today includes the following countries:

1. Belgium
2. Canada
3. China
4. Denmark
5. Finland
6. France
7. Germany
8. Ghana
9. Indonesia
10. Israel
11. Italy
12. Ivory Coast
13. Japan
14. Netherlands
15. Norway
16. Portugal
17. Russia
18. Saudi Arabia
19. Senegal
20. Singapore
21. South Korea
22. Spain
23. Sweden
24. Switzerland
25. Ukraine
26. United Arab Emirates
27. United Kingdom
28. United States of America

Mozambique's decision to waive visas for 28 countries comes on the heels of the launch of a platform last December that enables travelers to apply for electronic pre-authorization to enter the country. The introduction of the Mozambican e-Visa has reportedly led to a 30% increase in the number of visitors entering the country compared to the same period in the previous year.

The e-Visa platform obligates the country to respond to applications within five days, although the typical turnaround time is around 24 hours. The few problems reported with the platform are usually due to users failing to upload the required documentation.

The recent announcement of visa exemption for 28 countries by Mozambique is a significant step in implementing Measure 13 of the Economic Acceleration Measures Package (PAE) announced by President Nyusi in August 2022. The PAE comprises 20 reform measures designed to make the country more competitive and accessible to both visitors and investors.

To ensure effective implementation of the stimulus package, a delivery unit has been established under the country's Ministry of Economy and Finance to oversee its coordination. By taking these steps, Mozambique aims to create a more favorable environment for economic growth and attract more visitors and investors to the country.

How will the visa exemption impact tourism in Mozambique?

The visa exemption announced by Mozambique is likely to have a positive impact on tourism in the country. By waiving visa requirements for citizens of 28 countries, Mozambique is making it easier and more affordable for tourists to visit the country. This move is expected to increase the number of foreign visitors to Mozambique, which in turn could boost the country's tourism industry and economy.

Mozambique has a lot to offer tourists, including beautiful beaches, national parks with diverse wildlife, and historic sites. With the visa exemption, more people from key tourist markets such as South Africa, Mauritius, and the European Union are expected to visit Mozambique. This could lead to increased spending on accommodation, food, transportation, and other tourist-related activities.

Furthermore, the visa exemption is also likely to encourage more business travel to Mozambique. Businesspeople from the exempted countries will now be able to travel to Mozambique more easily and without having to apply for a visa in advance. This could facilitate business deals and investments in the country, which could help to stimulate economic growth.

Overall, the visa exemption is expected to have a positive impact on Mozambique's tourism industry, as well as on the country's economy as a whole. 

What are the requirements for entry into Mozambique under the visa exemption?

The specific requirements for entry into Mozambique under the visa exemption will depend on the traveler's nationality and the purpose of their visit. However, in general, citizens of the 28 countries included in the visa exemption will need to meet the following requirements:

Valid passport: Travelers must have a valid passport that is valid for at least six months from the date of entry into Mozambique.

Return ticket: Travelers must have a return ticket or onward travel booked before entering Mozambique.

Proof of accommodation: Travelers must have proof of accommodation for their stay in Mozambique, such as a hotel booking or a letter of invitation from a friend or business contact.

Sufficient funds: Travelers must have sufficient funds to cover their expenses during their stay in Mozambique, such as cash or credit cards.

Purpose of visit: Travelers must have a clear purpose for their visit to Mozambique, whether it is for tourism, business, or other reasons.

Yellow fever vaccination: Some travelers may be required to provide proof of yellow fever vaccination, depending on their country of origin and recent travel history.

What economic benefits might Mozambique gain from the visa exemption?

The visa exemption for citizens of 28 countries is expected to bring several economic benefits to Mozambique. Here are some potential advantages:

Increased tourism: The visa exemption is expected to attract more tourists to Mozambique, which could lead to increased spending on accommodation, food, transportation, and other tourist-related activities. This could boost the country's tourism industry and create jobs for Mozambican workers.

Business opportunities: The visa exemption is also expected to facilitate business travel to Mozambique. Businesspeople from the exempted countries will now be able to travel to Mozambique more easily and without having to apply for a visa in advance. This could facilitate business deals and investments in the country, which could help to stimulate economic growth.

Trade: The visa exemption could also facilitate trade between Mozambique and the exempted countries, as businesspeople and investors may be more likely to explore import and export opportunities.

Foreign investment: The visa exemption could make Mozambique a more attractive destination for foreign investors. With easier travel requirements, foreign investors may be more willing to consider investing in Mozambique's economy.

Positive international image: By implementing the visa exemption, Mozambique could enhance its reputation as a welcoming and open country. This could lead to increased interest from international organizations and aid agencies, which could bring further economic benefits to the country.

Overall, the visa exemption has the potential to bring several economic benefits to Mozambique, including increased tourism, business opportunities, trade, foreign investment, and a positive international image.