The Mozambique Police Force is one of the most critical institutions in the country, ensuring public safety, national security, and peace. In 2025, the government of Mozambique introduced a revised salary structure across all law enforcement agencies, including the police. This change reflects both the economic realities facing the country and the need to better motivate and support law enforcement officers.
The updated 2025 salary structure for the Mozambique Police focuses on fairness, competitiveness, and rewarding dedication. It provides improved basic salaries and increased allowances that aim to boost morale and attract qualified personnel into the force.
Whether you're planning to join the Mozambique Police or you're simply curious about law enforcement pay in the country, this comprehensive guide covers everything you need to know from monthly salaries by rank to allowances, career progression, and frequently asked questions.
Mozambique Police Monthly Salary Structure by Rank (2025)
Below is the full Mozambique Police salary structure for 2025, showing estimated monthly pay by rank in both Mozambican Meticais (MZN) and its approximate equivalent in US Dollars (USD). These amounts include basic pay and allowances.
Summary Table: Mozambique Police Monthly Salary by Rank (2025)
| Police Rank | Monthly Salary (MZN) | Approx. Monthly Salary (USD) |
|---|---|---|
| Constable | 16,000 – 20,000 | $250 – $310 |
| Corporal | 21,000 – 25,000 | $325 – $390 |
| Sergeant | 26,000 – 30,000 | $400 – $460 |
| Inspector | 31,000 – 38,000 | $480 – $590 |
| Sub-Inspector | 39,000 – 45,000 | $600 – $700 |
| Assistant Superintendent | 46,000 – 55,000 | $710 – $850 |
| Superintendent | 56,000 – 68,000 | $860 – $1,040 |
| Chief Superintendent | 69,000 – 82,000 | $1,060 – $1,250 |
| Deputy Commissioner | 83,000 – 95,000 | $1,270 – $1,450 |
| Commissioner of Police | 96,000 – 120,000 | $1,460 – $1,800 |
Note: Exchange rates are based on early 2025 estimates. Actual pay may vary depending on deployment, seniority, and government budget revisions.
How the Mozambique Police Salary Structure Works
The 2025 security salary structure introduced by the government is designed to ensure fair pay for all officers while encouraging professionalism, discipline, and long-term service. Salaries increase based on several important factors:
1. Rank and Responsibility
Higher ranks in the police command chain are paid more. Leadership, decision-making responsibility, and command over others justify the higher pay.
2. Years of Service
Officers who have spent more years in the service often earn higher salaries, even within the same rank. Experience matters in determining one’s placement on the salary scale.
3. Special Assignments
Officers serving in high-risk zones, conflict areas, or intelligence roles may receive extra bonuses or hazard pay.
4. Educational Qualifications
Those with advanced degrees (such as law, criminology, or public administration) are eligible for faster promotions and slightly higher pay brackets.
5. Training and Skills
Officers who complete specialized training courses or serve in technical units (cybercrime, forensics, anti-terrorism) may also qualify for higher pay.
Detailed Breakdown of Police Salary by Rank (2025)
Constable Salary in Mozambique 2025
A Constable is the starting rank for most recruits. It is the entry point into the police force. In 2025, constables earn:
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Monthly Salary: MZN 16,000 – 20,000
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Roles: Basic law enforcement, community patrol, support duties
This includes base salary, risk allowance, and other essential support benefits.
Corporal Salary in Mozambique
The Corporal is one rank above Constable and usually acts as a field supervisor.
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Monthly Salary: MZN 21,000 – 25,000
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Roles: Supervising constables, enforcing traffic laws, field operations
Sergeant Salary Structure
A Sergeant takes on increased responsibilities in both urban and rural policing.
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Monthly Salary: MZN 26,000 – 30,000
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Roles: Leading patrol units, report writing, training new recruits
Inspector and Sub-Inspector Salary
These ranks are considered senior field-level roles.
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Inspector: MZN 31,000 – 38,000
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Sub-Inspector: MZN 39,000 – 45,000
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Roles: Investigations, case supervision, and station management
Assistant Superintendent to Chief Superintendent
These are mid-to-upper-level management positions with command over departments or zones.
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Assistant Superintendent: MZN 46,000 – 55,000
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Superintendent: MZN 56,000 – 68,000
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Chief Superintendent: MZN 69,000 – 82,000
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Roles: Strategic management, policy enforcement, and cross-regional operations
Deputy Commissioner and Commissioner of Police
These are the top executive roles in the Mozambique Police Force.
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Deputy Commissioner: MZN 83,000 – 95,000
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Commissioner of Police: MZN 96,000 – 120,000
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Roles: National security leadership, inter-agency coordination, law enforcement reform
Allowances and Benefits for Mozambique Police Officers (2025)
Beyond salaries, police officers receive various allowances and benefits to improve their welfare and support their work.
Key Allowances:
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Risk Allowance: For dangerous duty posts (MZN 3,000 – 10,000)
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Uniform Allowance: For maintenance of police uniforms
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Transport Allowance: Supports commuting and patrol responsibilities
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Housing Subsidy: Paid to officers not in government-provided housing
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Medical Allowance: For health insurance or out-of-pocket medical care
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Family Support/Childcare Allowance: Offered to officers with dependents
These allowances vary based on rank, location, and unit type.
Comparison with Other Security Agencies in Mozambique
The salary scale of police officers is similar to other civil defense roles but differs slightly:
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Police officers earn less than military officers of the same rank.
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Customs and immigration officers tend to earn more at senior ranks due to international funding and operational bonuses.
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However, police officers generally have more regular duty hours and enjoy broader job security.
Key Factors Affecting Police Salary Levels
1. Inflation and Cost of Living
Annual reviews are conducted to adjust salaries based on economic inflation.
2. Public Sector Reforms
Government-wide reforms in 2025 focused on harmonizing pay across uniformed services.
3. Budget Allocations
Salary increases depend on available resources and revenue from national income.
4. Foreign Aid
Some pay upgrades, especially for anti-narcotics and anti-terror units, are supported by international partners.
How to Join the Mozambique Police Force in 2025
Basic Entry Requirements:
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Must be a Mozambican citizen
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Between 18 and 30 years of age
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Physically and mentally fit
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Minimum education: Secondary School Certificate
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No criminal record
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Must pass entrance examination and physical test
Career Progression and Promotion
Key Promotion Factors:
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Years of service
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Training and performance
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Promotion exams
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Vacancy availability
Promotions often lead to higher salaries, more responsibilities, and larger command roles.
FAQs: Mozambique Police Salary and Structure
1. What is the starting salary of a police officer in Mozambique?
Constables earn between MZN 16,000 and 20,000 per month in 2025.
2. How much does a Commissioner of Police earn?
The Commissioner earns between MZN 96,000 and 120,000 monthly.
3. Do officers receive a housing allowance?
Yes, officers not living in state housing receive a monthly housing subsidy.
4. Are police salaries taxed?
Yes. Income tax applies to base salary, while some allowances may be tax-free.
5. What is the highest-paid police rank?
The Commissioner of Police is the highest-paid rank.
6. Is hazard pay available for officers in conflict zones?
Yes. Officers working in high-risk or remote areas receive risk/hazard allowances.
7. How often are salary reviews conducted?
Reviews are typically done every 2 to 3 years, depending on budget availability.
8. Can education affect promotion speed?
Yes. Higher education can fast-track promotions and offer access to senior roles.
9. What benefits do officers receive besides pay?
Benefits include medical, housing, transport, and uniform allowances.
10. Is the new salary structure better than before?
Yes. The 2025 structure shows significant improvement in pay, especially at senior levels.
Conclusion: Final Thoughts on the Mozambique Police Salary in 2025
The Mozambique Police Salary Structure in 2025 is a significant improvement from past years. With better pay, structured promotions, and targeted allowances, the system now rewards professionalism and commitment more effectively. While challenges like inflation and inter-agency salary gaps still exist, the future for police officers in Mozambique looks brighter.
Whether you're an aspiring officer or simply analyzing security sector trends in Africa, understanding the police rank salary in Mozambique provides a clear picture of public sector compensation and law enforcement development in the country.