Key Highlights
- A new visa application center has been inaugurated in Mozambique.
- The facility will commence operations on February 10.
- The center features enhanced accessibility, particularly for individuals with disabilities.
Starting February 10, Mozambican applicants can submit their Schengen visa applications at the newly established center, which is designed to provide better accessibility, especially for those with disabilities.
According to local reports, the center remains in Maputo, Mozambique’s capital, but has relocated to the Maputo Business Tower.
Enhanced Accessibility Features
The new Visa Application Centre includes wheelchair ramps and elevators for easy access. Applicants with disabilities or those requiring assistance are encouraged to bring a companion to aid them during the process. Staff will also be available to support clients with special needs.
The inauguration event was attended by Portugal’s Ambassador to Mozambique, António Costa Moura, and Alok Singhal, Director of VFS Global Maputo for Sub-Saharan Africa.
Streamlined Visa Application Process
Applying for a Schengen visa can often be a complex and stressful experience. A Mozambican netizen on a South African subreddit recently shared their frustrations:
“I understand the reasoning behind the stringent process, but it’s frustrating how easy it is for Europeans to visit many African countries. As a Mozambican, I’ve seen Europeans complain about paying €50 to €100 for visas, but the process for us to visit their countries is far more challenging.”
The improved accessibility at the new center is expected to ease the application process for certain groups, particularly those with disabilities.
Mozambique’s Schengen Visa Statistics
Mozambique is part of the Community of Portuguese-Speaking Countries (CPLP). While Portugal has recently relaxed some rules for CPLP nationals, Mozambican applicants still need to undergo the Schengen visa process to enter the Schengen Area.
In 2023, Mozambican applicants submitted over 20,000 Schengen visa applications. Portugal was the most sought-after destination, accounting for 66% (13,383) of all applications. France and Spain followed, with 1,930 and 1,713 applications, respectively. Other countries receiving applications included Finland, Germany, Italy, and the Netherlands.
The new center aims to simplify the visa application process, particularly for those with special needs, while addressing some of the challenges faced by Mozambican applicants.
