Mozambique Lebombo (SA) / Ressano Garcia (MOZ) Crossing Guide

Lebombo (SA) / Ressano Garcia (MOZ): Mandatory Vehicle & Asset Documentation Checklist

II. Mandatory Vehicle & Asset Documentation Checklist

Note: All documents must be original or certified copies.

A. Vehicle Ownership and Authorization

• Registration Documents: The driver must carry the original vehicle registration papers or vehicle license papers. A copy certified by the South African Police Service (SAPS) is acceptable, provided the certification is not older than three months. This requirement also applies to boats and trailers being towed.
• Financed Vehicle: If the vehicle is financed (under a lease or installment agreement), a mandatory signed, certified letter from the financial institution (bank) is required. This letter must explicitly state the specific dates of travel and grant authorization to take the vehicle across the border.
• Vehicle Not Owned by Driver: If the driver is not the registered owner, they must carry a Letter of Authority from the owner. If the vehicle is rented, a letter of authority/border letter from the car rental company giving permission to take the vehicle out of the country is required. If the vehicle is borrowed or a company car, an affidavit from the police (SAPS) giving permission from the owner/financial institution to take the vehicle abroad is necessary.

B. Compulsory Permits and Insurance

• Temporary Import Permit (TIP): A temporary import permit (TIP) is compulsory to bring a registered vehicle (including trailers and boats) outside of Mozambique into Mozambique. The TIP permit (DA341 form) is filled out at the Mozambique Border Post. It is crucial that the TIP permit has been officially stamped by customs officials to validate it. The TIP is generally valid for a period of 30 days.
• Compulsory Third-Party Liability (CTPL) Insurance: Third Party Insurance is compulsory for all non-Mozambican registered vehicles entering the country.
  • It is often underwritten by a Mozambican insurer.
  • The certificate is valid for 30 days.
  • It can be purchased at the border from official representatives or in advance online (e.g., Hollard) to save time.
  • It is required per vehicle and per towed application (trailer/boat). The estimated cost is approximately R150 to R160 per vehicle, with an additional R80 to R140 required for a trailer/towed item.

C. Personal Documentation

• Passport Validity: The passport must be valid for at least 30 days after the intended return date for travelers. However, Non-SADC residents are advised that the passport must be valid for at least 6 months after the exit date from Mozambique.
• Blank Pages: The passport must contain at least two clean pages for entry and exit stamps.

D. Customs and Safety Equipment

• Import Restrictions: Strict limits apply to alcohol and tobacco. Travelers' allowances (per person, 30-day period) include 200 cigarettes and 1 litre of spirits, and 2.25 litres (or 3 bottles) of wine. The importation of beer is prohibited.
• Safety Equipment: The vehicle must be equipped with two red Warning Triangles. The vehicle must also carry two Reflective Jackets/Vests (fluorescent yellow/green). A fire extinguisher is highly recommended. The vehicle should also display a ZA Sticker if registered in South Africa.
• Towing: If towing a trailer, boat, or caravan, blue and yellow warning triangles must be displayed. One triangle must be fixed to the right front of the towing vehicle (on the bumper) and one on the rear of the trailer/towed application.

Lebombo (SA) / Ressano Garcia (MOZ): Step-by-Step Border Crossing Protocol (SA Exit $\rightarrow$ MOZ Entry)

The Lebombo (South Africa) / Ressano Garcia (Mozambique) border crossing is the primary corridor for travelers, requiring strict adherence to sequential administrative steps governed by a gate pass system on both sides.

A. South African Side (SA Exit - Lebombo)

The South African procedures focus on obtaining customs clearance for valuables and immigration clearance for all travelers before proceeding to Mozambique.

1. Gate Pass Initiation: Upon entering the South African border post, the driver or traveler receives a gate pass. This pass includes the car registration and the number of people in the vehicle.
2. Customs/Immigration Building: Travelers must park their vehicle in the designated parking areas and proceed inside the customs/immigration building to complete the necessary paperwork.
3. Customs Declaration:
   • Inside the customs building, travelers need to complete the paperwork, which includes a Temporary Export Permit for the vehicle.
   • All goods must be declared, especially valuables such as cameras, laptops, iPads, and computers.
   • The stamped Customs declaration form must be kept in a safe place, as it is required for presentation to Customs officials upon re-entering South Africa.
   • If travelers are not South African citizens and want to reclaim VAT, they must present the goods and original invoices at the VAT counter to stamp them for refund purposes.
   • The Customs official will stamp the gate pass.
4. Passport Exit Stamp: All travelers must proceed to Immigration (DHA) counters to have their passports validated and processed, receiving the official exit stamp.
5. Gate Pass Stamping: After Immigration procedures are complete, the Immigration officials will also stamp the gate pass.
6. SA Exit: Travelers return to their vehicle and drive toward the Mozambican side. Before officially leaving the South African side, the driver must give the fully stamped gate pass to the guard on duty at the exit check point. A Customs Official may ask to search the car before the final exit.

B. Mozambican Side (MOZ Entry - Ressano Garcia)

The Mozambican procedures focus on securing entry stamps for individuals and the mandatory Temporary Import Permit (TIP) for the vehicle (Alfândega/Customs).

1. Gate Pass Initiation: Upon entering the Mozambican border post, a guard will hand the driver a new gate pass. Travelers should obey the directions and signals of the border officers.
2. Immigration (Migração): Travelers proceed to Immigration.
   • Each individual must personally go to the Immigration counter and have their passport stamped for entry.
   • Travelers must pay a nominal processing fee per person (approximately R17.50).
   • It is imperative to ensure that the gate pass is also stamped by the Immigration official.
3. Customs (Alfândega) and Vehicle TIP: The driver must proceed to the Customs counter to secure vehicle clearance.
   • The driver obtains a vehicle form and completes the request for Temporary Import Permission (TIP) regarding the vehicle, boat trailer, and electronic equipment. The TIP form (DA341) must be filled in at the border post.
   • The TIP, which is issued by Customs officials (Alfândega), is generally valid for a period of 30 days.
   • The driver must ensure the TIP permit has been officially stamped by customs officials.
   • The compulsory Third-Party Insurance must be taken out before proceeding.
   • Note on Runners: It is strongly advised NOT to use "runners" (locals offering assistance) with the paperwork, as they are not government officials and no official fees are payable for the completion of documents.
4. Duty and Fees: The traveler proceeds to the duty counter to declare goods exceeding fiscal allowances and pay relevant duties. All documentation must be retained for the duration of the journey as proof of payment. Travelers must also pay the vehicle tax/declaration fee (approximately R50 for the declaration form).
5. Vehicle Search: Alfândega officials are at liberty to search the vehicle. If a traveler is found to be in possession of any undeclared or prohibited items, these will be confiscated.
6. Final Exit: The customs official will sign the gate pass, which is then handed in to the officer at the gate, who will then allow the vehicle through into Mozambique.

Lebombo (SA) / Ressano Garcia (MOZ): Mandatory Vehicle & Asset Documentation Checklist

II. Mandatory Vehicle & Asset Documentation Checklist

Note: All documents must be original or certified copies.

A. Vehicle Ownership and Authorization

• Registration Documents: Travelers are required to bring original vehicle registration papers or vehicle license papers. If the original is not available, a certified copy of the registration certificate, issued by the SAPS (South African Police Service) and not older than three months, is acceptable. This applies to the primary vehicle and any towed applications, such as trailers or boats.
• Financed Vehicle: If the vehicle is still under a lease or installment agreement with a financial institution (bank), the driver must carry a letter of authority from the financial institution. This letter must be signed and certified by a Commissioner of Oaths and must state the specific dates of travel. The absence of this letter is grounds for immediate refusal of entry.
• Vehicle Not Owned by Driver: If the driver is not the registered owner (e.g., company car, rented, or borrowed), they must possess a letter of authorization from the registered owner. If the vehicle is rented, a border letter from the rental company is needed. If the vehicle is not registered in the driver's name, an affidavit from the police (SAPS) giving permission from the owner/financial institution to take the vehicle abroad is mandatory.

B. Compulsory Permits and Insurance

• Temporary Import Permit (TIP): A TIP (Temporary Import Permit) is compulsory for bringing a foreign-registered vehicle, trailer, or boat into Mozambique. The TIP (DA341 form) is obtained and filled out at the Mozambique Border Post. It is crucial that the driver ensures the TIP has been officially stamped by Customs officials. The TIP is generally valid for a period of 30 days. The cost for the permit is approximately R15 (payable in Meticais).
• Compulsory Third-Party Liability (CTPL) Insurance: Third Party Insurance is compulsory for all non-Mozambican registered vehicles. It must be underwritten by a Mozambican insurer and is valid for 30 days. It is required per vehicle and per towed application (trailer/boat). It can be purchased at the border or online/in advance. The approximate cost is R160 for a vehicle and an additional amount (approx. R80 or R140) for a trailer.

C. Personal Documentation

• Passport Validity: For SADC Residents (including South African citizens), the passport must be valid for at least 3 months (90 days) remaining until the expiry date when leaving/exiting Mozambique. However, travelers are strongly advised to adhere to the standard requirement of 6 months validity remaining until expiry date when leaving/exiting Mozambique, particularly for Non-SADC Residents.
• Blank Pages: The passport must contain a minimum of two clean pages for stamps (some sources recommend three blank pages for entry/exit stamps).

D. Customs and Safety Equipment

• Import Restrictions: Travelers have strict allowances (per person, 30-day period) for 200 cigarettes and 1 litre of spirits. They are allowed 2.25 litres of wine (or 3 bottles). NO beer importation is allowed. Valuables such as laptops and cameras should be declared on the South African side and the stamped customs declaration form kept safe.
• Safety Equipment: All vehicles must be equipped with two red warning triangles (does not need to be displayed on the car). Two reflective vests/jackets (usually yellow) are compulsory. A fire extinguisher is recommended. A ZA sticker (indicating vehicle origin) is required for SA registered vehicles.
• Towing: If towing a trailer, boat, or caravan, Mozambican law requires a blue and yellow triangle to be displayed. One triangle must be attached to the front right of the towing vehicle and the other on the rear of the trailer/towed application. Separate third-party insurance is also required for the towed item.

Lebombo (SA) / Ressano Garcia (MOZ): Operational and Risk Mitigation Tips

V. Operational and Risk Mitigation Tips

Successful transit through the high-volume Lebombo/Ressano Garcia corridor requires specific caution against congestion, scams, and traffic enforcement issues.

• Avoid "Runners": Travelers are strongly advised NOT to use "runners" (locals offering assistance) at the border. These individuals are not government officials and engaging with them may lead to scams or financial exploitation. No official fees are payable on either side of the border for the completion of standard documents.
• Maintain Patience: Lebombo/Ressano Garcia is the busiest crossing. Since queues and congestion are expected over weekends and holidays, travelers are requested to be patient. Planning the crossing within the recommended time window (09:30 AM to 1:30 PM) is the most effective congestion mitigation strategy.
• Be Polite: Being polite and cooperating with border officials helps the procedure go smoothly. It is courteous to stop, turn on hazard lights, turn down the music, and remove sunglasses when interacting with an official.
• Carry Pens: It is always a good idea to have an extra pen or two for the border posts, as they are rarely supplied.
• Confirm Stamps: Travelers must double-check that their passport has been stamped with the correct date at the Immigration counters. The driver must also ensure the TIP permit and the gate pass are officially stamped by both Immigration and Customs officials.
• Check Road Status: The N4/EN4 corridor is generally in good condition, and no 4x4 is required. However, local authorities and travelers are advised to monitor official channels for real-time updates on tensions, truck blockages, and operational status, especially due to political instability in Ressano Garcia or after heavy rain.

VI. Related Travel Resources

• Accommodation Near the Border: Accommodation is available in Komatipoort, South Africa (5km away) and in Mozambique, the closest being approximately 4 km after the Ressano Garcia border post. Various popular destinations in Mozambique are listed, including Maputo, Bilene, Xai Xai, Ponta Malongane, and Tofo.
• Other Borders: Information is available for other crossings between South Africa and Mozambique, including Kosi Bay/Ponta do Ouro, Giriyondo, and Pafuri.
• General Travel Information: Travelers can find information on vehicle regulations, Mozambique's currency (Meticais/MZN), and Malaria Tips. Joining community intelligence groups like the DriveMoz Facebook Group is highly recommended for real-time alerts on delays and corruption hotspots.
• Disclaimer: Information provided is intended as a guide only, and travelers are advised to check requirements directly with authorities. The sources state that they cannot be held liable for any changes in rates, requirements, or times.

The Lebombo (South Africa) / Ressano Garcia (Mozambique) crossing is the primary commercial and tourist gateway, connecting South Africa's economic heartland (Gauteng) to Maputo via the N4/EN4 Maputo Corridor.

Here is practical travel information for driving by car from Johannesburg or Pretoria to this border post:

I. Route and Estimated Travel Time

Detail Specification Source(s)
Primary Route N4 Eastbound (from Gauteng) to Lebombo (SA) / Ressano Garcia (MOZ), continuing onto the EN4 in Mozambique.
Distance (JHB to Border) Approximately 470 km (4.5 to 5 hours driving time, excluding border delay).
Distance (JHB to Maputo) Approximately 540 km.
Driving Time (JHB/Pretoria to Maputo) Estimated 6 to 6.5 hours of core driving time (excluding border processing).
Total Recommended Travel Time Due to unpredictable border delays, allow a minimum of 9 hours total travel time.
Closest Town (SA Side) Komatipoort (approximately 5 km from the border).

II. Road Conditions and Vehicle Requirements

• Road Quality (SA and MOZ): The N4 in South Africa and the connecting EN4 toll road in Mozambique are reported to be in great or excellent condition. The Maputo Corridor highway is described as a world-class, multi-lane highway.
• 4x4 Requirement: A 4x4 vehicle is NOT required for the journey from Gauteng to the Lebombo border or for the onward drive on the EN4 to Maputo.
• Safety Note: Travelers should be aware that the road on the South African side right before the Lebombo border gate has seen deteriorating conditions on a blind bend, potentially causing trucks to veer into oncoming lanes to avoid potholes.

III. Pre-Crossing Logistics and Timing

• Fuel and Supplies: It is strongly advised to fill up with fuel and gather basic supplies at Komatipoort on the South African side before crossing. The Komati Oasis, situated about 1.4 km before the border on the N4, is a good stop offering fuel, a supermarket, an ATM, and a Bureau de Change.
• Currency: You can purchase Meticais (MZN) at the Bureau de Change in Komatipoort. Exchanging money on the South African side is advisable to avoid being cheated by unauthorized individuals at the border.
• Insurance: You can buy your compulsory Third-Party Liability (CTPL) Insurance in advance online or at authorized outlets in Komatipoort, such as the BP Filling Station on the N4 or the Sasol Garage. CTPL costs approximately R280.00 for a sedan/SUV/LDV and R140.00 for a private trailer.
• Standard Hours: The border operates daily from 06:00 to 24:00 (midnight).
• Peak Season: Operating hours are often extended to 24 hours a day for passenger traffic during the Easter period and from mid-December to mid-January.
• Congestion Avoidance: To reduce delays (which have historically reached 60 hours on the SA side), the Mozambican consulate advises prioritizing crossing during the midday period, specifically between 9:30 AM and 1:30 PM. Crossing on a weekday morning before 9:00 AM has also been noted as fast.

IV. Post-Border Travel (Ressano Garcia to Maputo)

• Road Network: After crossing at Ressano Garcia, you continue on the EN4 toll road to Maputo. The distance to Maputo is about 100 km.
• Toll Gates: There are two toll plazas on the EN4: the Moamba Toll Plaza and the Maputo Toll Plaza. Tolls accept payment in Metical (MZN), Rand (ZAR), or US Dollar (USD), but change will always be given in Meticais. The Moamba Toll fee for Class 1 vehicles was MT 210 in 2023.
• Avoiding Maputo Traffic: If you are traveling north to destinations like Marracuene, Bilene, or Xai Xai, you can avoid congestion in Maputo city by taking the tarmacked outer ring road. This turn-off is located about 66 km from the border off the EN4 and will eventually lead to the EN1 highway.
• Driving at Night: It is generally not advisable to drive at night in Mozambique due to security risks, lack of visibility, and unroadworthy vehicles. If delayed, there is accommodation available in the little town of Ressano Garcia just after the border, or approximately 8 km past the border at Casa Do Campo, to make the trip easier.
• Social Media for Alerts: The DriveMoz Facebook Group is highly recommended for obtaining real-time updates on border delays, road closures, and police checkpoints (known as transitos).