Mozambique: Short-term Work Permit Validity Extended

An amended decree extends the validity of short-term work permits (STWP) to 120 calendar days, up from the previous 90-day validity. Additionally, the government expanded the definition of ‘occasional work’ relevant to STWPs (these permits allow such work). Foreign nationals can now qualify for a STWP if they perform any occasional work (not just occasional work that is unpredictable and involves a high degree of specialized scientific or technical professional knowledge, as was previously required). The government does not define ‘occasional’, and this determination is discretional. Lastly, employers are reminded of the standard procedure of providing their company tax certificate upon submission of their initial quota and work authorization applications. Such certificates have a new validity of one year from the date of issuance, up from 90 days. As authorities implement the amended decree, there may be also other impacts to immigration practice. We will report on relevant changes.