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Israel Visa for South Africa Citizens 2026

e-Visa / eTA

South African citizens must obtain an Israeli ETA online before travel - apply free of charge at the gov.il visa portal at least 72 hours before departure; approval usually arrives within minutes to a few days, valid for multiple entries.

Guide last updated October 22, 2026. Always verify with official sources before travel.

What you need

  • Passport valid for at least 6 months from the date of entry into Israel
  • A valid email address and credit/debit card to complete the online ETA application (though the ETA itself is currently free)
  • Return or onward flight ticket
  • Proof of accommodation for the duration of the stay
  • Proof of sufficient funds if requested at the border
  • No biometrics are collected for the ETA application itself; fingerprint/photo capture may occur at Ben Gurion Airport passport control
  • Travel insurance is recommended though not a stated requirement for entry

Visa types

  • Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) - Tourist: multiple entry, valid for 2 years or until passport expiry (whichever is sooner), each visit limited to a maximum stay of 90 days
  • Business ETA: same application system, select 'business' purpose, same validity and stay limits as tourist
  • Standard sticker visa: still available through an Israeli embassy/consulate for purposes not covered by the ETA (e.g., work, study, long-term stays), requiring a full application with supporting documents

How to apply online

  • Visit the official Israeli government ETA portal at gov.il and select the ETA application for visa-exempt travelers
  • Enter passport details, travel dates, and contact information
  • Submit the application at least 72 hours before your flight departure
  • There is currently no fee charged for the Israeli ETA
  • Approval is typically sent by email within a few hours to a few days as a PDF confirmation
  • Print or save the approval PDF and present it along with your passport at check-in and on arrival at Ben Gurion Airport
  • Keep the approval reference number handy in case of system checks at the border

Fees & processing time

  • ETA fee: currently no charge (free of charge) for the online application
  • No VFS or service intermediary fee, since the application is made directly on the government portal
  • Total cost estimate: effectively USD 0, excluding any optional travel insurance
  • Standard processing time: typically same-day to 72 hours, though applicants are advised to apply at least 72 hours ahead
  • No expedited paid option exists since standard processing is already fast

Tips for South Africa travelers

  • Apply for the ETA as soon as your flight is booked, ideally at least a week ahead, to avoid last-minute issues
  • Common reasons for ETA delay or denial: mismatched passport details, incomplete flight information, or security flags requiring manual review
  • Security screening at Ben Gurion Airport can be thorough - carry printed hotel bookings, a clear itinerary, and be ready to explain the purpose of your visit
  • South African travelers with passport stamps from certain neighboring countries may face additional questioning - this does not affect ETA validity but can extend processing time at the airport
  • Extensions of stay beyond 90 days require a visit to the Population and Immigration Authority inside Israel before the ETA-granted period expires

Official links & resources

Always confirm requirements with government or embassy sources before applying.

This guide is for information only. Visa policies change without notice. Travel Visa Stack is not an immigration authority. Always verify with official government or embassy sources before making travel plans.