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Timor Leste Visa for South Africa Citizens 2026

Visa on Arrival

South African citizens can obtain a visa on arrival at Dili International Airport or land border crossings in Timor-Leste; fee USD 30, processed in 15-30 minutes.

Guide last updated October 23, 2026. Always verify with official sources before travel.

What you need

  • Passport valid for at least 6 months beyond the date of entry
  • Completed visa-on-arrival application form (provided at the port of entry)
  • One passport-size photo, often waived if digital photo capture is used
  • Proof of accommodation and return/onward ticket may be requested
  • USD cash for the visa fee, as card payment is generally unavailable at the border
  • Travel health insurance recommended
  • Biometrics (fingerprints, photo) captured at the immigration counter on arrival

Visa types

  • Visa on arrival (Tourist/Business) - single entry, valid 30 days, extendable, fee USD 30
  • Multiple-entry visa - available for business travelers through the Ministry of Interior/Immigration in advance
  • Residence/work visa - required for employment or long-term stay, applied for in advance through the nearest Timor-Leste diplomatic mission or in-country sponsor

Visa on arrival

  • Issued at Presidente Nicolau Lobato International Airport (Dili) and designated land border posts with Indonesia
  • Steps: complete the arrival form, present passport and photo, pay the USD 30 fee in cash, receive the visa stamp
  • Queues can be slower at smaller land border crossings than at the airport
  • No pre-approval or online application required for the standard visa on arrival

Fees & processing time

  • Visa-on-arrival fee: USD 30 for single entry, valid 30 days
  • Extension fee (additional 30/60/90 days): approximately USD 25-75 depending on duration, paid at the Immigration Directorate in Dili
  • Total estimated cost: USD 30 for standard stay
  • Processing: 15-30 minutes on arrival; extensions typically processed within a few working days

Tips for South Africa travelers

  • Carry exact USD cash, as change may not always be available at smaller border posts
  • Confirm current entry requirements before departure, as rules have changed periodically
  • Apply for an extension at the Immigration Directorate in Dili well before the initial 30 days expire
  • Keep your arrival visa stamp and receipt safe, as it may be requested at departure or during extension

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.