Residence & citizenship
Mozambican Residence Permit (DIRE) & Permanent Residence
The residence and identification document (DIRE) that long-stay foreign nationals hold, renewed over time toward longer-term and permanent residence.
Expert reviewed Official guidance referenced
Under review — check current rules
DIRE validity periods, renewal cycles, fees and the specific criteria and timeline for permanent residence are not verified from an official page here. Confirm the current DIRE and permanent-residence rules with SENAMI.
Important information
Immigration rules and fees can change. This information is for general guidance only and does not constitute legal advice. Always check the latest requirements on the official Mozambique government website before you apply.
On this page
- Official name
- DIRE — Documento de Identificação e Residência para Estrangeiros
- Route type
- Residence and identification document / permanent residence pathway
- Issued by
- Serviço Nacional de Migração (SENAMI)
- When obtained
- After arrival, following SENAMI registration
Who it is for
- Foreign nationals living in Mozambique on a long-stay visa (work, study, residence)
- Residents building continuous lawful residence toward permanent status
What it is used for
- Day-to-day identification within Mozambique
- Banking and other services requiring proof of residence
- Evidence of lawful residence when renewing permits or applying for longer-term status
How to obtain
- Enter Mozambique on the appropriate long-stay visa
- Register with SENAMI within the required period after arrival
- Apply for and collect the DIRE
- Renew the DIRE periodically to maintain lawful residence
Official sources
For the most accurate and up-to-date information, always refer to the official government sources.
Verified against official gov.uk sources · last reviewed 2026-08-21. Information only — not legal advice.