Mozambique

Hoodlum offers expert film fixer services in Mozambique, facilitating international productions of every scale with a full range of services, including location scouting, obtaining permits, full range of logistic support and connecting production teams with local talent and experienced crew.

Ultimate Filming Guide for Mozambique

Capital

Maputo

Main Cities

Beira, Nampula

Local Languages

Makhuwa; Changana; Nyanja; Ndau; Sena; Chwabo; Tswa

Currency

Meticais – 1 Metical = .016 USD

Climate

Tropical to Sub-Tropical Climate

General Visa Requirements:

Since May 1, 2023, citizens of the following 29 countries could travel to Mozambique visa-free for up to 30 days, with an option to extend. However, from April 24, 2025, these travelers must now secure an Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) in advance: Belgium, Canada, China, Côte d’Ivoire, Denmark, Finland, Ghana, Indonesia, Ireland, Israel, Italy, Japan, Netherlands, Norway, Portugal, Russia, Saudi Arabia, Senegal, Singapore, South Korea, Spain, Sweden, Switzerland, Ukraine, United Arab Emirates, United Kingdom, United States.

Required Documents:

Invitation letter from a Mozambican host organisation or hotel booking.
Financial documents showing means of support during the stay.
Passport info, return ticket, and accommodation details.

Visa Application Process:

Mozambique has introduced a mandatory ETA for citizens of 29 visa-exempt countries.

Travelers must apply online at least 48 hours before departure.
A processing fee is required.

The new system is designed to improve security and streamline entry procedures.

The ETA is a mandatory pre-travel registration, previously optional, but now compulsory for legal entry.
Apply online: www.evisa.gov.mz
Validity: 3 months from approval date
Purpose: Legal entry notification (not a visa)

Processing Time:

Online approval within minutes (if documents are complete).

Cost:

Payable at the local embassy (amount varies).

Accreditation Requirements:

All foreign crew members are required to obtain a temporary work permit to operate legally in Mozambique.

Required Documents:

General filming permit
Profile photo
CV / Resume / Portfolio
Passport scan
Estimated arrival and departure dates for each crew member

Processing Time:

Applications are typically processed within 2 – 4 weeks. Early submission is advised to avoid delays.

Cost:

Approximately $180 per crew member Valid for a 30-day period

Issuing Organization:

National Institute of Audiovisual and Cinema (INAC)

Required Documents:

Mandatory documents include; film synopsis; list of international crew members; list of equipment, including serial numbers; budget for this region

Processing Time:

2 weeks

Cost:

1% of the budget to be spent in Mozambique Minimum payment: 8,500 meticais (approximately $130 USD)

Location Scouting / Location Permits Information:

Hoodlum will identify potential private locations that fit your filming needs and negotiate with location owners or managers to secure permission to film.

Location Scouting / Permitting Cost & Processing Time

Negotiable, depending on location and filming requirements.

Drone Regulations:

Yes – drones can be brought into Mozambique, but their use is strictly regulated.

Drone Importation Regulations:

Valid drone pilot license
Drone specifications (model, serial number, weight, technical details)
Proposed flight schedule
GPS coordinates of flight locations
Proposed flight time and altitude

Permit Issuance:

Permission is required from the Instituto Nacional de Aviação Civil (INAC), Mozambique’s national aviation authority.
INAC is responsible for issuing all drone permits and regulating drone activity in the country.

Timing:

Applications take approximately 2 weeks for approval.

Cost:

Permit fees range from $300 to $350.

Carnet Status:

Mozambique is not a Carnet country.
Carnet procedures do not apply here.

Mozambique’s authorities strictly enforce the new ETA rule:
No ETA = No Entry

To avoid travel disruptions:

Apply for your ETA at least 48 hours before departure.
Ensure your passport is valid for at least 6 months.
Carry printed or digital copies of your ETA and supporting documents.

Required Documents:

Since Mozambique does not accept ATA Carnets, customs clearance is required for all imported equipment.

Required Documentation:

Detailed list of all equipment entering Mozambique
Declared value of equipment

Issuing Organization:

Clearance is processed by Alfonsecas de Moçambique through a licensed clearance agent.

Timing:

Approx. 1.5 weeks to obtain permission Deposit refunds may take up to 6 months

Cost:

Even with ETA approval, travelers must pay an administrative fee of 650 MZN (≈ €9 / $10 USD) upon arrival. Payable in Mozambican Meticais or accepted foreign currencies. Failure to pay or present ETA approval may result in denied boarding or refusal of entry