Navigating the process for foreign nationals to live and work in Mozambique involves understanding a structured system of visas and work permits. This system is designed to regulate the entry and stay of expatriates, ensuring compliance with national labor laws and immigration policies. For companies looking to employ international talent or send employees to work on projects within the country, securing the correct authorization is a critical first step.
The primary authorization required for a foreign national to be legally employed in Mozambique is a work permit, which is distinct from the entry visa. The process typically involves obtaining approval from the relevant labor authorities before applying for a work visa at a Mozambican embassy or consulate abroad. This multi-step approach requires careful planning and adherence to specific documentation and procedural requirements.
Common Visa Types for Foreign Workers
While various visa types exist for entering Mozambique, the most relevant for individuals intending to work is the Work Visa (Visto de Trabalho). Other visas might permit short-term business activities but do not authorize formal employment.
- Work Visa (Visto de Trabalho): This visa is specifically for foreign nationals who have secured employment with a company registered in Mozambique. It is typically issued for a duration that aligns with the employment contract, often up to one year, and is renewable. Obtaining this visa requires prior authorization from the Ministry of Labor and Social Security (MITESS).
- Business Visa (Visto de Negócios): This visa allows entry for short-term business activities such as meetings, negotiations, or exploring investment opportunities. It does not permit the holder to be employed by a Mozambican entity or perform work that a local resident could undertake. It is usually valid for shorter periods, such as 30 or 60 days, and may be single or multiple entry.
| Visa Type | Purpose | Typical Duration | Employment Permitted? |
|---|---|---|---|
| Work Visa | Long-term employment with Mozambican entity | Up to 1 year | Yes |
| Business Visa | Short-term business activities | 30 or 60 days | No |
Work Permit Application Requirements and Procedures
Securing a work permit in Mozambique is a multi-stage process primarily initiated by the employing company. The process involves obtaining work authorization from the Ministry of Labor (MITESS) before the foreign national can apply for the Work Visa.
Key Steps:
- Work Authorization Application (MITESS): The employing company in Mozambique applies to MITESS for authorization to hire the foreign national. This application requires demonstrating that the position cannot be filled by a qualified Mozambican national and adhering to quotas on foreign workers (typically 5% of the workforce for large companies, 10% for medium, and 20% for small).
- MITESS Approval: If the application meets the requirements, MITESS issues a work authorization approval.
- Work Visa Application: The foreign national applies for a Work Visa at a Mozambican embassy or consulate in their country of residence, submitting the MITESS approval along with other required documents.
- Entry into Mozambique: Upon receiving the Work Visa, the individual can travel to Mozambique.
- Residency Permit Application: Within a specified period after arrival (usually 30 days), the foreign national must register with the National Immigration Service (SENAMI) and apply for a Residency Permit (DIRE - Documento de Identificação e Residência para Estrangeiros). The Work Visa is essentially an entry visa that allows the application for the actual work and residency permit upon arrival.
Required Documentation (for both MITESS authorization and Visa/Residency application):
Documentation requirements can be extensive and may vary slightly depending on the specific circumstances and the consulate. Common documents include:
- Employment contract with the Mozambican company
- Copies of the applicant's passport (valid for at least 6 months beyond the intended stay)
- Academic and professional qualifications (legalized/authenticated)
- Curriculum Vitae
- Police clearance certificate from the country of origin and any country of previous residence (usually within the last 2 years)
- Medical examination certificate
- Photos (passport size)
- Proof of the employing company's legal registration and tax compliance in Mozambique
- Justification from the employer for hiring a foreign national
- Proof of payment of application fees
Fees and Processing Times:
Fees are payable at different stages (MITESS application, visa application, residency permit application). These fees are subject to change and vary depending on the applicant's nationality and the specific consulate or government office. Processing times can also vary significantly.
- MITESS Authorization: Can take several weeks to a few months.
- Work Visa Application: Typically takes 2-4 weeks after MITESS approval, but can be longer depending on the consulate's workload.
- Residency Permit (DIRE) Application: Can take several weeks to months after arrival in Mozambique.
It is advisable to begin the process well in advance of the intended start date, ideally 3-4 months prior.
Pathways to Permanent Residency
Permanent residency in Mozambique is generally granted after a significant period of legal residence and work in the country. The most common pathway is for individuals who have held valid temporary residency permits (like the DIRE obtained via a Work Visa) for a continuous period.
- Eligibility: Typically, foreign nationals may apply for permanent residency after residing legally in Mozambique for at least five consecutive years on temporary permits. Other factors considered include integration into Mozambican society, lack of criminal record, and continued means of support.
- Procedure: The application is submitted to the National Immigration Service (SENAMI). It requires comprehensive documentation proving continuous legal residence, employment history, financial stability, and personal background information.
- Processing: The review process for permanent residency applications can be lengthy, often taking several months.
Dependent Visa Options
Foreign nationals holding a Work Visa and subsequent Residency Permit in Mozambique can typically apply for visas for their immediate family members to join them.
- Accompanying Visa (Visto de Acompanhante): This visa is available for spouses and dependent children of the main work permit holder.
- Eligibility: Proof of the relationship (marriage certificate, birth certificates) and proof of the main applicant's valid Work Visa and Residency Permit are required. The main applicant must also demonstrate sufficient financial means to support their dependents.
- Procedure: Applications for the Accompanying Visa are usually submitted to a Mozambican embassy or consulate abroad, similar to the Work Visa application process. Once in Mozambique, dependents must also register with SENAMI and obtain their own Residency Permits (DIRE) linked to the main applicant's status.
- Documentation: Includes proof of relationship, copies of the main applicant's passport, visa, and DIRE, applicant's passport, photos, and potentially police clearance and medical certificates depending on age and consulate requirements.
Visa Compliance Obligations for Employers and Employees
Maintaining legal status in Mozambique requires ongoing compliance from both the employing company and the foreign national employee.
Employer Obligations:
- Ensure the foreign national has valid work authorization from MITESS and a valid Residency Permit (DIRE).
- Adhere to the terms of the work authorization, including the specific position and location approved.
- Notify MITESS and SENAMI of any changes to the employee's status (e.g., change in role, termination of employment, change of address).
- Comply with Mozambican labor laws regarding contracts, wages, working conditions, and social security contributions for the foreign employee.
- Assist the employee with the renewal process for their work authorization and Residency Permit.
Employee Obligations:
- Maintain a valid passport, Work Visa (for entry), and Residency Permit (DIRE).
- Ensure timely renewal of the work authorization and Residency Permit before expiry.
- Only work for the employer and in the position specified in the work authorization and contract.
- Notify SENAMI of any changes in personal circumstances (e.g., change of address, marital status).
- Adhere to the conditions of their visa and residency permit.
- Comply with all Mozambican laws and regulations.
Failure to comply with these obligations can result in penalties, including fines, deportation of the employee, and legal consequences for the employing company. Proactive management of the visa and work permit process is essential for smooth and legal operations in Mozambique.
