Does Mozambique Support eSIM | Local Carrier List & Setup

Support! Local Vodacom and Movitel require passport real-name registration. Airalo is the first choice for tourists (starting at $7/GB), no real-name registration required, ready to use upon purchase, roaming on Vodacom 4G with wide and stable coverage.

Table of Contents

Local Carriers in Mozambique

Vodacom Mozambique

Vodacom Mozambique occupies 60% of the mobile market share in Mozambique, serving a total number of users exceeding 11 million. The carrier has deployed 30 n78 band 5G base stations in Maputo and surrounding areas. Real-world testing in the Sommerschield business district reached downlink rates of 600Mbps, with network latency stabilizing around 25ms.

iPhone 11 series and newer models have the highest compatibility in the local network. The 5G module activation success rate for Samsung Galaxy S21 to S24 series is close to 100%. Models after Google Pixel 4 need to manually check the phone EID code. Locked devices not sold locally cannot recognize local 1800MHz (B3) or 800MHz (B20) band signals.

To handle eSIM, you need to go to the blue headquarters building on Rua dos Desportistas street. According to Mozambique Law No. 6/2016, all network users must scan their passports and collect fingerprints. The second-floor counter is responsible for digital identity entry, and the cost for replacement or new application is between 100 to 200 MTn.

Optional data tariff packages for individual users include:

Single day 1GB data: 50 MTn
Weekly 5GB social dedicated: 350 MTn
Monthly 20GB all-purpose bundle: 1200 MTn
Exclusive 5GB from 0:00 to 5:00 AM: 15 MTn

Users can dial 111# to check credit balance in real-time. The Meu Vodacom application installation package size in the store is 45MB, supporting top-up via M-Pesa. Specialized counters at the Maputo International Airport exit provide prepaid card to eSIM conversion services. New devices need to maintain a WiFi connection for 2 minutes after scanning the code to complete the profile download.

4G signals in coastal tourist areas such as Tofo and Vilankulo usually maintain above 3 bars. Traveling to Beira or Nampula requires relying on the B1 (2100MHz) band. Base station density in Maputo city reaches 5 per square kilometer. Video call packet loss rate records during peak usage hours are lower than 2%.

In the configuration interface, the APN access point must be filled as internet.vodacom.mz. Username, password, and MMSC fields are all kept blank. When moving across provinces, the system will switch between 4G and 900MHz (B8) band 3G. If network registration fails, the mode needs to be manually locked to LTE or 3G.

Signals near the Xai-Xai long-distance station fluctuate due to terrain influence. It is recommended to order offline maps and data packages in advance in Maputo city. Post-pago accounts enjoy QCI scheduling priority in crowded areas like Maputo Mall. A package with a monthly fee of 2499 MTn includes 50GB of high-speed data.

Ordinary prepaid numbers with no balance change for 30 days will trigger a recycling alert. After users cross the border at the Ressano Garcia port, the eSIM will automatically retrieve the shared bands of South Africa MTN. If there is no signal at this time, Vodacom MZ should be manually selected from the network list to restore the link.

Main office locations are distributed at the following coordinates:

Maputo Headquarters: Rua dos Desportistas, 649
Beira Branch: Avenida das Dinâmicas
Nampula Point: Avenida Eduardo Mondlane
Customer Service Phone: Local dial 111

TMcel

TMcel is a state-owned telecommunications company formed by the merger of Mozambique Telecommunications (TDM) and mobile communication service provider mCel, with technical headquarters established at Praça 25 de Junho square in Maputo. According to the mandatory provisions of the country’s Law No. 6/2016, any user handling eSIM business must provide the original passport for scanning and record biological fingerprint information on-site.

Business applications are usually concentrated in large official business halls in Maputo, Beira, and Nampula. Users can apply for a prepaid account called eSIM Prepago at the counter, and the system will generate a 32-digit activation code after entering identity. The printed QR code credential has a time limit, usually requiring scan activation within 24 hours.

The network bands mainly occupy 1800MHz (B3) to provide 4G LTE services, and some provincial administrative centers have deployed 2100MHz (B1) bands as a supplement. Real-world downlink speeds in Maputo city are between 15Mbps to 35Mbps, and signal stability depends on the underground optical fiber network laid by TDM in the southern provinces early on.

Tariff standards for commonly used Giga+ series data packages locally:

500 MTn: 10GB high-speed data, valid for 30 days.
1500 MTn: 50GB high-speed data, valid for 30 days.
100 MTn: 2GB short-term data, valid for 7 days.
2000 MTn: 100GB large capacity bundle, suitable for long-term stay.
25 MTn: 500MB daily emergency data bundle.
150 MTn: Weekly social media specific targeted data.

Unlocked iPhone 12 or Samsung Galaxy S22 and their subsequent versions have better compatibility under TMcel bands. Before activating eSIM, it must be ensured that the phone is connected to the business hall WiFi or other available wireless networks so that the terminal can send an EID registration request to the HLR Home Location Register. If the scan fails, technical personnel need to be contacted to check the device serial number in the background.

In the town centers of Gaza Province and Inhambane Province, TMcel signal coverage reaches over 90%. Vast rural areas mainly rely on the 900MHz (B8) band to provide basic 2G or 3G communication. The power redundancy system of city base stations can still support about 2 hours of emergency operation after municipal power outages.

Specific path for manual configuration of eSIM network parameters:

Enter the phone’s cellular network settings menu.
In the Access Point Name (APN) column, fill in: internet.
Set the MNC field to 01, and the MCC field to 643.
Select PAP or CHAP mode for authentication type.
Username, password, and MMSC options are all kept blank.
Save settings and restart the device, waiting for the signal bar to show the 4G logo.

mKesh is the carrier’s own electronic payment system, and the account corresponds one-to-one with the user’s mobile number. Dial 500# to enter the interactive menu for credit top-up or payment of water and electricity bills. Booths on the street with orange mKesh signs sell top-up vouchers of various denominations; after scratching off the 12-digit password, enter 123password# on the dial pad to receive the credit.

Some sites in the northern Cabo Delgado Province occasionally experience signal interruptions due to the security environment. Visitors going to this area need to complete real-name registration in Maputo in advance to avoid being blocked from handling it elsewhere. TMcel roaming services cover SADC member countries such as South Africa and Zimbabwe; after crossing the border, the 643-01 network usually needs to be manually selected.

Geographic coordinates of service agencies in major provinces:

Maputo Flagship Store: Avenida 25 de Setembro, 120.
Beira Branch: Avenida Eduardo Mondlane business district.
Nampula Point: Rua do Comércio center building.
24-hour customer service hotline: 100.
Balance inquiry command: 123#.
Mobile number inquiry command: 101#.

Postpago contract users enjoy QCI 7 level bandwidth scheduling in densely populated areas such as Maputo Mall or AFECC Gloria Hotel. Users with monthly consumption exceeding 3000 MTn can apply for multi-terminal shared data. Ordinary prepaid numbers will be automatically reclaimed by the system and put back into the market if there is no balance change for 90 consecutive days.

Movitel

Movitel is operated by Vietnam Viettel Group in cooperation with Mozambique SPI, currently laying 28,000 kilometers of optical fiber within the territory. There are 3,200 base stations distributed throughout the country, with its 4G signals mainly occupying the B3 (1800MHz) band, covering 85% of administrative districts. In northern provinces such as Niassa and Cabo Delgado, the market share of this network reaches 70%.

According to Mozambique National Communications Institute (INCM) data, Movitel has over 5 million active users, and its signal can penetrate deep into remote agricultural areas such as the Limpopo River Valley.

Ordinary business halls use an appointment system for eSIM processing for retail users. Users need to bring the original passport to the headquarters on Avenida 24 de Julho in Maputo to enter the device EID. Short-term visitors usually choose Airalo or Holafly roaming, and these platforms will automatically connect to Movitel’s 4G base station resources locally.

Specific parameters regarding network operation:

4G peak download rates are between 12Mbps to 28Mbps, uplink 8Mbps.
B8 band (900MHz) has strong penetration capabilities in forested areas.
Network identification code (MCC-MNC) is fixed as 643-03.
LPA download port points to its internal address lpa.movitel.co.mz.
Some base stations in Maputo and Nampula already support VoLTE voice.

Mozambique Law No. 6/2016 requires that even for eSIM purchased through international platforms, the device IMEI will be automatically recorded by the system. Current tariffs remain at a low level, with 150 MTn able to buy a 5GB weekly data package. The price for a monthly 20GB large capacity bundle is about 1000 MTn, suitable for personnel staying long-term in the Tete Province mining areas.

e-Mola is the mobile payment system developed by the carrier itself, with a very high penetration rate in rural areas.

Dial 110# to activate a personal mobile finance account.
Credit top-up command is 151top-up card password#.
Using e-Mola to buy data usually grants 10% to 20% extra quota.
Small transfers below 500 MTn enjoy handling fee waivers.
Account balance is automatically bound to the newly activated eSIM along with the mobile number.

In the manual configuration interface, the APN access point must be filled as internet, with username and password both left blank. Fill in 643 for MCC and 03 for MNC. The APN protocol is recommended to be set to IPv4/IPv6 dual-stack mode to reduce network disconnection occurrences when moving across provinces. Within 5 kilometers around the Gorongosa National Park camp, signals can usually maintain above 2 bars.

The eSIM QR code will automatically become invalid after a successful download and cannot be scanned repeatedly on a second device. If the device is lost, the user needs to contact customer service within 24 hours to freeze the e-Mola account. At northern ports such as Palma, users should turn off automatic network selection and manually lock onto 643-03 to prevent high phone bills from accidentally connecting to neighboring Tanzania signals.

Travel eSIM Providers

RedEx

RedEx connects to Vodacom signals with a 42.1% market share in Mozambique. Real-world downlink rate at Maputo International Airport (MPM) is 38.5Mbps. Network latency is distributed between 65 milliseconds and 88 milliseconds. This network speed has no pressure running 1080P resolution remote meetings.

Tariff standards are settled according to the USD system. A 7-day short-term bundle of 1GB is priced at $8.50. For a half-month stay, it is recommended to choose the 3GB specification, price $17.50. For trips to Limpopo Park or the Kruger border, the 5GB plan is recommended, with an expenditure of $26.00.

Data Capacity	Validity	Retail Price	Common Purpose
1GB	7 days	$8.50	Find maps
3GB	30 days	$17.50	Email work
5GB	30 days	$26.00	Self-driving navigation
10GB	30 days	$45.00	Video upload

Network band coverage includes Band 1 (2100MHz) and Band 3 (1800MHz). Signal penetration in the Matola factory area is strong. In the phone settings menu, the Access Point Name (APN) is recognized as internet. If there is no network, manually enter these letters.

Within 2 minutes after payment, the activation code and QR code reach the email. iPhone 14 or newer models add it immediately. Skip the local fingerprint recording link. Save the 72-hour real-name audit period required by telecommunications law.

Downlink speed: 45Mbps
Latency average: 72ms
Roaming switch: ON state
Signal bands: B1/B3/B40
Payment channel: Credit card/Apple Pay
Data metering: Refresh every 100KB

Tete Province mining area has many mountains, and there will be jumps in the 800MHz band. Manually select Vodacom MZ signal in cellular settings. Download speed maintains 2Mbps. App dashboard displays data readings in real-time.

Humidity at Beira port exceeds 80%, and wireless signals will be absorbed. Base stations called by RedEx often have fiber backhaul. Upload rate on heavy rainy days is 5.5Mbps. Webpage loading takes 1.2 seconds to 2.4 seconds.

The bill does not include the 17% local business tax. Paying $17.50 is the actual received amount. Buying a 1200 Metical top-up card on the roadside in Maputo is more expensive. The eSIM plan is 10% cheaper than physical cards.

Saves 12% power compared to physical cards
Supports EID identification technology
24/7 email customer service online
Covers all 11 provinces across the territory
Adapts to Android 10 and above systems
Automatically blocks local harassment calls

Base station spacing in Niassa forest farms exceeds 20 kilometers. RedEx reports location relying on low-frequency characteristics. Enter #06# to see EID for pre-installation. Activation code validity is 180 days.

Peak internet hours from 7 PM to 9 PM. Backend servers switch gateways to shunt data. Packet loss rate is controlled within 1.5%. Encryption protocols connect to bank Apps of various countries.

SM-DP+ address is set as 1.3.6.1.4.1.56515.1.1. Manually entering the code is faster than scanning. Customer service replies to emails within 15 minutes. Migrating data bundles takes 30 minutes if the phone is lost.

Check remaining valid days
Comes with a network speed test tool
Automatic push of usage reminders
Adapts to Samsung S23 bands
Stripe secure payment encryption
Historical bills sent to email

5G has not been popularized in Inhambane. 4G is effective within 5 kilometers of the seaside. Turn on one-click renewal in the App. No need to look for Vodacom top-up booths all over the street.

Click reset monitoring in the App. See which software occupies data. Turn off the phone Wi-Fi assistant function. Prevent background programs from running out of balance.

There is a lot of electromagnetic interference near the Nampula railway line. RedEx bands have strong anti-interference capability. Maintain 3G and 4G switching while moving. Call bitrate 64kbps.

Each piece of data comes with a security certificate. Bank transfer data is encrypted. Prevent base stations from leaking information. Data statistics error around 0.5%.

Displays original carrier name
Supports multi-currency settlement
Automatic reconnection on weak signal
Offline map download prompt
Account balance protection mechanism
Activation record inquiry

Gaza Province fish market is crowded. eSIM access priority is high. Video cuts off in Chibuto mining area but text can be sent. Voice compression bundles maintain downlink.

System requires iOS 12.1 or Android 9 and above. Delete useless old description files. Network search completed in 15 seconds upon landing. Turning on the roaming switch is a prerequisite for internet access.

Network speed is stable during peak periods in the Xai-Xai tourist area. RedEx leased bandwidth has a large margin. Downloading a 500MB file takes about 2 minutes.

Data remaining can be used across months. No daily speed limit threshold set. Watching short videos consumes about 20MB per minute. App dashboard uses charts to show expenditures.

Data shunt optimization
Account login alert from different locations
Supports global roaming switching
Real-time monitoring of signal strength
Broadband utilization rate 85%
256-bit payment protection

Optical fiber is being expanded in the Pemba port area. RedEx data bundle utilization rate is high. High-definition picture upload speed is fast. Suitable for remote handling of office documents.

Encountering faults click the App chat window. Queue time is usually less than 4 minutes. Customer service provides a 32-digit mandatory activation code. Manually enter parameters to immediately pull the profile.

Base stations are crowded on Mozambique Island (Ilha de Moçambique) when there are many people. Algorithms automatically pick idle channels. Text messages are sent in seconds. Map loading success rate over 90%.

Every eSIM account is independently hosted. The billing system does not go through local gateways. Avoided the risk of arbitrary deductions by carriers. Billing accuracy reaches the millisecond level.

Account balance has no time limit
Adapts to Google Pixel 4
Signal automatic lock function
Data tiered billing discounts
Supports Apple Pay settlement
Privacy data GDPR protection

Holafly

Pay $27 to get a 5-day unlimited data plan. Buying a physical card from a roadside stall in Maputo incurs 17% local VAT expenditure; this plan avoids extra costs. The fee for extending the trip to 30 days is $68, which is about $2.3 per day, supporting all-day map navigation at Vilankulo beach.

The plan connects to the Vodacom MZ network, which has the widest base station distribution locally. In cities like Beira or Nampula, real-world LTE downlink rates are maintained at 35-50Mbps. Latency is stable at around 75ms; on offshore boats in the Bazaruto Archipelago, as long as the distance from the shore does not exceed 7 nautical miles, video call audio packet loss rate is lower than 3%.

The package does not support hotspot sharing, and data is limited to being consumed on a single device with eSIM installed. Heavy mobile users uploading 1080P short videos do not need to calculate remaining quota, saving the trouble of frequent top-ups. Encountering signal fluctuations consult customer service; WhatsApp response wait time is about 90 seconds.

QR code sent to email within 60 seconds after payment.
Compatible with full series of iPhone 11 and above models.
Signal search time less than 45 seconds after landing in Mozambique.
Activation validity is calculated by 24-hour natural day system.
Data plan takes a high limit quota under the fair use principle.
Supports Google Pixel 4 and subsequent Android devices.

Scan the QR code in the email before departure; the profile is stored in the phone’s secure element. Landing in Mozambique, the phone automatically searches for LTE Band 3 or Band 1 signals. Eliminated the steps of queuing at Maputo International Airport to scan fingerprints and submit passport copies, shortening the networking time by about 30 minutes.

If data transmission slows down in signal overlap areas like Cabo Delgado Province, manually turn off automatic network selection. Locking Vodacom MZ solves more than 90% of connection blockage problems. APN access points are usually recognized automatically; if unable to connect, just confirm the “data roaming” switch is ON.

LTE Band 40 provides high-throughput data support in urban areas.
Vodacom fiber backhaul stability is high under heavy rain weather.
256-bit encrypted payment gateway protects credit card transaction security.
Software interface does not contain any third-party disruptive ads.
Provides SM-DP+ address for manual code entry installation.
Refund guarantee provided in case of unsuccessful installation.
Maintains basic 1Mbps bandwidth in offline state.

Mozambique physical top-up cards often have denomination shortages, and the purchase process relies on cash. Apple Pay achieves 0.5 second settlement, eliminating the trouble of finding an ATM. Expenses are clearly displayed on the bill, producing no difference after exchange rate conversion, suitable for travelers with high budget transparency requirements.

During the rainy season from January to March, Mozambique wireless signals decay by about 15% due to increased air humidity. The 900MHz low-frequency band base stations owned by Vodacom perform relatively stably under bad weather, maintaining bandwidth above 5Mbps. This is more reliable than temporarily purchased local cards.

Base station power in the Niassa Reserve is adjusted at night. Holafly users’ devices automatically switch to the 1800MHz band with the strongest signal gain. Even on the edge of the primitive forest with dense vegetation, the delivery success rate of text messages remains above 98%, ensuring the most basic communication in wild environments.

Data consumption is not counted in local carriers’ billing accounts.
Supports dual-SIM mode without taking out the original card.
Activation code supports multiple scans until installation is successful.
Detailed 10-step troubleshooting guide manual attached in the email.
Servers located in Europe, privacy data protected by GDPR.
Battery wear rate reduced by about 5%-8% compared to physical cards.

Yesim

After iPhone 15 or higher version users land and power on at Maputo (MPM) International Airport, the phone chip will complete the handshake protocol with local base stations within 5 seconds. Yesim profiles support silent activation, saving the process of queuing at Mozambique airport to scan passports, record ten fingerprints, and wait for manual audit.

A 1GB data package is priced at $4.40, with validity fixed at 7 days. This expenditure is enough to support about 1200 minutes of webpage browsing in Maputo city center, or sending more than 5000 WhatsApp pure text messages. For tourists self-driving on the coastal highway in Gaza Province, a 3GB package ($11.00) can provide about 25 hours of Google Maps real-time traffic navigation data.

The Ycoins points system within the Yesim account follows a standard of 100 points for 1 Euro. When purchasing a 10GB specification ($30.80) data bundle, the system will automatically return about 5% reward points to the account. These points can be seamlessly used to offset internet costs for subsequent trips such as South Africa, Zambia, or Tanzania after leaving Mozambique.

Urban center 4G downlink peak rates consistently maintain at 48Mbps.
LTE Band 1 (2100MHz) signal penetration in urban masonry buildings performs stably.
Supports manual switching between Vodacom and Movitel networks.
Virtual number service supports receiving 6-digit verification codes from ride-hailing Apps like Yango.
Network latency (Ping) in Maputo and Beira areas stabilizes at 65-80ms.
Consumption of every megabyte (MB) is updated in millisecond real-time on the App dashboard.

In Pemba or Mozambique Island in northern Mozambique, signal coverage is mainly carried by Movitel’s 900MHz low-frequency base stations. Yesim allows users to turn off “automatic network selection” and manually lock onto the Movitel network. This operation can prevent the phone from generating an extra 15% battery loss by repeatedly searching for weak Vodacom base station signals.

The sea signal coverage radius around the Bazaruto Archipelago is about 8 nautical miles. Movitel’s 800MHz band has a very low loss rate when propagating on the water surface. Voice calls via Yesim in these offshore areas usually have an audio packet loss rate lower than 2.2%, able to maintain clear call quality.

For business travelers with uncertain stay durations, the Pay-as-you-go mode deduction standard is $0.035/MB. If spending most of the time in hotels with Wi-Fi, this mode is more economical than buying a daily package. The USD balance in the account has no expiration time limit and will not expire after 90 days like local physical top-up cards.

Turning off “Wi-Fi Assistant” in phone settings can prevent accidental data consumption.
In extremely weak signal areas, manually change the Access Point Name (APN) to internet.
Customer service responds to technical inquiries via App chat window within 4 minutes.
Accounts support payment verification via Apple Pay within 0.5 seconds.
When the data bundle remaining is below 10%, the system sends an automatic push reminder.
The built-in encrypted tunnel function can hide the user’s real IP address.

Physical cards sold at roadside stalls in Mozambique usually include 17% hidden Value Added Tax (VAT). The price displayed in the Yesim App is the final payment amount, with no extra tax settlement burden. Users can download electronic receipts containing transaction timestamps on the billing page at any time; every expenditure is transparently traceable.

Heavy rainfall during the rainy season will cause high-frequency signals such as 2300MHz to decay by about 20%. Manually switching to the 900MHz band through Yesim allows the phone to maintain basic 300kbps text transmission capability in bad weather. This underlying network compatibility is very important for handling urgent business emails in port cities like Beira.

When installing the profile, Android devices should ensure the EID identification code is clearly visible in the system settings. If QR code scanning fails, manually entering the 32-digit activation code string usually solves the problem within 2 minutes. After configuration, the “data roaming” switch must be manually turned on, which is a necessary technical prerequisite for data delivery.

Base station load in inland provinces like Tete will significantly increase during the peak hours from 8 PM to 10 PM. Yesim’s multi-network roaming capability allows users to switch from crowded Vodacom to idle third-party networks. This dynamic selection mechanism ensures that webpage loading success rate can still maintain above 90% in state of base station saturation.

Virtual number monthly rent about $2.50, supports global SMS receiving.
1GB data can support uploading about 200 high-quality social media photos.
System supports one-click reset of cellular data statistics for accurate expenditure monitoring.
New users registered through invitation links can get $0.50 initial reward.
iPhone 11 and above models all support this eSIM plan.
Customer service provides SM-DP+ address for mandatory activation when encountering complex faults.

Step-by-Step Setup Guide

Preparation

Enter #06# on the dial pad to view device information. The screen will display a 32-digit EID (Embedded Identity Document) number. This string of codes is the unique identification code of the built-in chip in the GSMA database. If this number cannot be read, the hardware level may not support virtualized cards, and a physical card should be used instead.

Mozambique mobile communications mainly rely on three carriers: Vodacom, Movitel, and TMcel. Confirm the device baseband chip supports B1 (2100MHz), B3 (1800MHz), and B8 (900MHz) bands. These three bands carry more than 90% of the 4G and 3G signal coverage in the country. In urban centers like Maputo, 5G networks in the B41 (2600MHz) band have been deployed in some areas.

Battery remaining power needs to be above 40%.
Internal storage space of the phone should reserve no less than 300MB.
iOS system recommended update to 17.0 or higher.
Android system needs to be above version 12.0.
Uninstall or turn off all active VPN software.
Confirm the “Carrier Lock” status is “No SIM restrictions”.

Downloading an eSIM profile involves encrypted data exchange of 10MB to 15MB. Downlink bandwidth needs to be stable above 5Mbps. The free Wi-Fi signal at Maputo International Airport (MPM) often experiences cut-offs during peak hours. It is recommended to use hotel fixed broadband or a reliable mobile hotspot to complete the operation. Interrupting the connection during download will cause the 2D matrix activation code to become invalid.

Mozambique Law No. 4 of 2016 stipulates that all mobile communication access must undergo RICA real-name authentication. Prepare the original passport; photocopies or electronic scans are usually not accepted at Vodacom business halls. Staff will record the passport number, validity period, and personal biometric information. These data will be bound with the virtual card’s ICCID serial number in the background database.

Registration process at the flagship store on Maputo 24 de Julho Avenue usually takes 20 minutes. In addition to the passport, the system will collect fingerprints on-site. When handling, it is necessary to explicitly request turning on Data Roaming permissions. If purchasing international data bundles like Airalo or Holafly, although real-name is not required, one must confirm whether its partner in Mozambique is Vodacom or Movitel.

Prepare around 500 MZN cash for top-up.
Record the country code +258.
Save the carrier official customer service number 100.
Turn off the phone’s “Low Data Mode”.
Confirm the device is not in “Low Power Mode”.

Mobile number segments within Mozambique start with 84 (Vodacom), 86 (Movitel), or 82 (TMcel). When getting the QR code receipt, check the number prefix on the paper. A 10GB local data bundle costs about 450 to 550 MZN. According to current exchange rates, 1 USD can be exchanged for about 63.8 Metical (MZN). Some small outlets only accept cash payments.

Local summer environmental temperatures consistently maintain between 33°C and 38°C. High-temperature environments will cause the phone processor to limit data transmission rates, increasing the probability of profile writing failure. Scan the code in a cool place or indoor air-conditioned environment. Ensure screen brightness is adjusted above 80% to reduce ambient light interference with QR code scanning recognition.

Check if IMEI 2 is available.
Check SM-DP+ address integrity.
Clean up expired eSIM profiles.
Confirm iCloud or Google account is logged in.

The profile download is not just data transmission but also includes the handshake protocol with the carrier’s LPA (Local Profile Assistant). In Android’s “SIM Card Manager”, ensure “Use as primary data card” is checked. Frequent switching of airplane mode will trigger the carrier’s security protection mechanism, leading to temporary account lock. Keep the device still for 3 to 5 minutes waiting for authentication to complete.

If traveling to areas like northern Cabo Delgado Province, signal stability will drop significantly. At this time, the device’s support for the B20 (800MHz) low-frequency band becomes particularly critical. This band has stronger diffraction capability in non-urban areas with dense vegetation. Confirm that the device specification table includes this band, otherwise after entering bush areas, the data connection will revert to the extremely slow EDGE mode.

Backup important contact data.
Note down the PIN code of the physical SIM card.
Preset an alternative contact method.
Confirm the login verification method of commonly used social software.

Obtaining eSIM Activation Code

On Av. 24 de Julho Avenue in Maputo city center, the light blue sign of the Vodacom flagship store is very conspicuous in the tropical sunlight. When opening at 08:30 in the morning, five or six people are usually already standing at the door. After entering the shop, go directly to the ticket machine to get a business ticket.

According to Mozambique Law No. 4 of 2016, handling communication business must provide the original passport. Photocopies or photos in the phone are useless here. The clerk behind the counter will check the entry stamp on the visa to ensure your identity is legal and within the validity period.

The real-name registration process takes about 12 minutes. In addition to scanning the passport, you also have to take photos facing the camera and record fingerprints on the electronic induction board. These biometric data will be directly uploaded to the background of the national regulatory system named INCM.

After completing entry, you need to pay 150 MZN (about $2.3) as the virtual card issuance fee. The clerk will tear off a narrow receipt from the thermal printer. The most prominent thing on the slip is that QR code composed of black and white squares.

Original passport must be carried with you.
Confirm the visa page has a clear entry date.
Prepare small change within 200 MZN.
Confirm the phone has logged out of all ID locks.
Reserve at least 30 minutes of queuing time.
Ask for a paper business acceptance slip.

The new number is printed on the upper right corner of the receipt, usually starting with 84 or 85. Below is a 19-digit ICCID code, which is the unique identity card of this virtual card. If the scan does not respond, this string of numbers is the last credential for manual activation.

If not wanting to queue at the store, data packages from international providers can be purchased before takeoff. The Moznet plan provided by Airalo is very common in Mozambique. A 1GB data package sells for $4.5, with validity usually being 7 days.

After successful online payment, the confirmation email will lie in the inbox within 30 seconds. The email not only has a QR code but also an auxiliary code starting with LPA:1$. This string of characters contains the server address and specific activation instructions.

If planning to go to the reserves near the Limpopo River, it is recommended to choose a plan connecting to the Movitel signal. Movitel’s B8 band signal is more stable in remote areas. Holafly’s unlimited data package sells for $27; although expensive, it doesn’t lose connection in these places.

Check if the email is intercepted into the spam folder.
Save a screenshot of the LPA activation code text.
Confirm if the package includes voice function.
Pay attention to tiered price changes for 1GB data.
Check the Mozambique country code +258 in the order.

There are also telecommunications counters in the arrivals hall of Maputo International Airport (MPM). These counters are open until 22:00 at night, able to catch most late-night flights. The clerks here move very fast, completing scanning, registration, and receiving money in one go.

Buying a 10GB local data bundle at the airport costs about 500 MZN. According to the current exchange rate of 1 USD to 63.8 Metical, this is much cheaper than international roaming bundles. Counters usually only accept cash; it is recommended to first withdraw some money at the Standard Bank ATM next to them.

After getting the QR code, don’t be in a hurry to scan it under the sun. High temperatures above 35°C in the afternoon in Mozambique will cause reflections on the phone screen. The 12-megapixel camera has difficulty focusing on the pixels on the receipt in strong light; it is recommended to find a shaded place to operate.

Profile size is usually around 15MB. If the airport’s free Wi-Fi cannot connect, you can ask the counter staff to open a hotspot for sharing. The phone will heat up during the download process; this is a normal data writing phenomenon, don’t turn off the phone at this time.

Vodacom’s backend address is usually rsp.vgs.smedp.com. If automatic scanning prompts “unable to add plan”, click the manual entry option and fill in this address. Although the manual mode is troublesome, it is more reliable than repeated focusing.

Distinguish between number 0 and letter O when entering manually.
Avoid interference from automatic screen brightness adjustment.
Confirm phone power is above 40%.
Close unnecessary background programs when installing.

If purchasing a 3GB package from the Nomad platform, the price is around $9.5. Its backend will connect to local 643-01 network code. This can run at a downlink speed of 45Mbps in Maputo city center, basically without lag when watching videos.

The PIN code on the receipt is usually 0000. This four-digit number may be used after the phone restarts. It is recommended to take a photo of it and save it in a private album to prevent the thermal paper from being lost or the handwriting from fading.

Installation and Activation

Pick up that thermal paper receipt received from the Vodacom or Movitel store. Click “Settings” on the iPhone, enter the “Cellular” option. Select that blue “Add eSIM” text, then click “Use QR Code” in the pop-up menu.

The 12-megapixel rear camera of the phone will open automatically. Aim the lens at the black and white square on the paper; if the room is not bright enough, push open the control center to turn on the flashlight for assistance. The system will automatically recognize that download instruction containing about 12MB of encrypted data and start handshaking.

The “Activating” spinning icon will appear in the middle of the screen. At this time, the phone is exchanging verification information with the LPA server in Maputo. The whole process usually takes 45 to 90 seconds; do not switch to other Apps during this time, otherwise it will cause the 15MB profile transmission to be interrupted.

After successful recognition, the system will skip to the label page. It is recommended to manually enter “Mozambique” or select the “Travel” label. In the next default line settings, switch “Cellular Data” to the newly installed card; the original number is only used to receive bank SMS from home.

Activation Configuration Parameters	Vodacom (MZ) Indicator	Movitel Operation Data
Downlink Peak	About 45Mbps in 4G	About 38Mbps in 4G
Access Point (APN)	internet	internet
Network Code (MNC)	643-04	643-01
Profile Size	12.5MB	14.8MB

Samsung S24 or S23 users need to enter “Connections” settings, find “SIM Manager”. After clicking “Add mobile plan”, select “Scan carrier QR code” at the bottom. The system will automatically call the IMEI 2 serial number to compare with the real-name data in the Maputo backend.

The download progress bar of the Android 14 system sometimes gets stuck at the last point. This is because Mozambique base station RICA authentication data synchronization takes about 2 minutes. Wait until seeing the “Plan added” pop-up before clicking confirm. In the manager, confirm the card status switch has turned blue and ON.

Phone battery remaining power above 35%.
Confirm environment Wi-Fi latency within 100ms.
Reserve 300MB internal storage space in the phone.
Turn off all active accelerators or proxies in the phone.
Confirm the “Carrier Lock” status is “No SIM restrictions”.
Prepare the 4-digit PIN code printed on the receipt.

If the camera cannot focus because the thermal paper has creases, click “Enter activation code manually” below. Fill in rsp.vgs.smedp.com (applicable to Vodacom) in the SM-DP+ address column. Then fill in that activation code string composed of more than 20 digits and letters.

Look clearly at the small print on the receipt when entering manually. Digit 0 and letter O are easily confused; entering incorrectly three times will cause the QR code to be temporarily locked by the carrier’s backend. Click “Next” in the upper right corner after filling in, waiting for the baseband chip to write about 256KB of operation instructions.

After signal bars appear, if only “Emergency calls only” is displayed, go into settings to turn off “Automatically select network”. Click 643-04 or MZ Vodacom manually in the searched list. Forcing base station locking allows the new card to complete HLR registration within 5 minutes.

After the data link is clear, dial 100# to check balance. Confirm the LTE or 4G logo appears at the top of the screen. If still unable to access the internet, enter cellular data options to manually check the APN. Fill in internet in the input box, leaving both username and password blank.

Turn off the “Roaming Data” switch of the primary card.
Set the new eSIM as the “Data only” line.
Restart the phone once to force refresh base station connection.
Record the PUK code at the bottom of the receipt.
Check if the carrier profile version is above 54.0.
Ensure the system’s “Low Data Mode” is not turned on.

Every QR code in the Mozambique telecommunications database is “one-time”. Even if error messages pop up during installation, absolutely do not click “Delete Plan”. Once a configuration is deleted before successful activation, that 150 MZN issuance fee is wasted, and you must return to the store to go through the real-name process again.

Finally confirm that the “Cellular Data Switching” function is OFF. In the suburbs of Beira or Nacala, signals may jump to E or 3G. Turning off switching can prevent the phone from automatically jumping back to the original physical card, avoiding high roaming bills per megabyte.