South Africa
IsraelDo South Africa citizens need a visa for Israel?
ETA required · 90 days
For an ordinary South Africa passport visiting Israel for tourism, business, or transit (short stay up to 30 days).
Reviewed and cross-checked· Last verified 23 May 2026
Short-stay rules at a glance
- Visa requirement
- ETA required
- Max stay
- 90 days
- Entry type
- All ports of entry
- Passport validity
- Passport must be valid for at least 6 months from the date of entry.
- Requirements
- ETA-IL (electronic travel authorization) applied online before travel — ILS 25 (~USD 7), valid 2 years
- Notes
- ~100 nationalities require ETA-IL since 1 January 2025.
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Frequently asked questions
Do South Africa citizens need a visa to travel to Israel?
Based on GoMate's data verified against official and consular sources, the short-stay rule for an ordinary South Africa passport entering Israel is "ETA required", for stays of up to 90 days. This covers short visits for tourism, business, or transit. Entry requirements can change, so always confirm with the Israel embassy before traveling.
How long can South Africa citizens stay in Israel?
Under current regulations, South Africa passport holders may stay in Israel for up to 90 days per entry on a short-stay basis (tourism, business, or transit). Overstaying can result in fines, deportation, and may affect future visa applications, so plan to leave within the permitted period.
How do South Africa citizens apply for a Israel visa, step by step?
South Africa passport holders must obtain an electronic travel authorisation (ETA) online before departure. Apply through Israel's official ETA system, pay the fee, and travel once it is approved — approval is usually quick. Be ready to provide: ETA-IL (electronic travel authorization) applied online before travel — ILS 25 (~USD 7), valid 2 years.
What documents do South Africa citizens need to enter Israel?
Passport must be valid for at least 6 months from the date of entry. Additional requirements: ETA-IL (electronic travel authorization) applied online before travel — ILS 25 (~USD 7), valid 2 years. Carry proof of onward travel and sufficient funds, as these may be checked at the border.
Can South Africa citizens work in Israel on this entry?
No. Short-stay entry to Israel is intended for tourism, business meetings, and transit — it does not permit paid employment. To work in Israel, South Africa citizens need a separate work visa or permit arranged in advance.
Can South Africa citizens extend their stay in Israel?
The 90 days short-stay limit is generally firm. Extensions are sometimes possible by applying to the Israel immigration authorities before your permitted stay ends. Overstaying can lead to fines, deportation, and may affect future visa applications, so do not rely on it.
Is this Israel visa rule for South Africa citizens up to date?
This rule was last reviewed on 23 May 2026. Visa policies change frequently — always confirm the final requirements with the Israel embassy or government before you travel.
Visa policies change without notice. Always confirm the final requirements directly with the Israel embassy or government before travel.