Israel Visa for South African Citizens

Travelling to Israel eVisa for South African Citizens? You are either attracted by the ancient history of Jerusalem, the contemporary atmosphere of Tel Aviv or the spectacular landscapes of the Dead Sea, but whatever the case, one of the major steps that you take before putting your bags is to make your travel arrangements. This guide will cover all that you need to know in case you are planning on what to carry along and what kind of visa you are supposed to hold on what you should do to make the process of your entry into a place easy.

Do South African citizens need a visa to visit Israel?

In a nutshell: yes — but with a twist that makes things simpler. If you hold a South African passport and you’re visiting Israel for a short stay (tourism or short business) then from 2025 you don’t need the classic “visa” applied for at an embassy beforehand — instead you’ll need to get an online authorisation called the ETA‑IL (“Electronic Travel Authorisation – Israel”).

Prior to this update, South African citizens enjoyed visa-free entry for up to 90 days, but from 1 January 2025 the new ETA-IL system becomes mandatory for travellers from visa-exempt countries such as South Africa.

So: you could say: you don’t need the old visa if your trip is short, but you do need to apply beforehand for the ETA-IL.

What is the Israel ETA-IL?

The Israel ETA-IL is an online authorisation system for travellers from countries that previously enjoyed visa-free entry to Israel (like South Africa), when travelling for tourism, business or transit for up to 90 days.

Rather than going through a full visa application process at a consulate, you fill out a short online form, make a payment, and receive approval electronically. Once approved, this gives you the right (subject to border control) to travel to Israel for short-term visits.

What documents are required to enter Israel with an ETA-IL?

To make sure you’re prepared, here are the key documents and requirements you’ll need:

✅ Required Documents / Conditions

• A valid passport from a country eligible for ETA‑IL.
• The passport must generally be valid for at least 3 months beyond the date of arrival in Israel.
• Application for ETA‑IL submitted online in advance (before boarding) via the official portal of the Israel Population & Immigration Authority (PIBA).
• Upload or provide required supporting information/documents in the application:
• Passport details (biometric or non‑biometric)
• Travel information (e.g., itinerary) and personal details (name, nationality, etc)
• Proof of funding / financial means may be required for certain cases (shown in some sources)

The ETA‑IL validity: once approved, it is valid for up to 2 years, or until your passport expires, for multiple entries.

Having the ETA‑IL does not guarantee entry. Final admission is subject to border control at arrival.

How to apply for an Israel ETA-IL?

Here’s a step-by-step guide for how to apply for Israel ETA-IL:

1. Select your country of citizenship (South Africa) and verify you are eligible. For South Africa this applies because it is on the visa-exempt list for which ETA-IL is required.
2. Complete the online form: provide your full name (as in passport), date of birth, passport number and expiry, citizenship, your trip details (intended arrival date, length of stay, purpose of trip) and contact information.
3. Pay the fee online (via debit/credit card).
4. Submit the form and wait for approval. You’ll receive an email with your authorisation.
5. Once approved, travel to Israel with your approved ETA-IL and passport. At border arrival you may be asked to present the authorisation or show proof of it.

What is the processing time for the Israel ETA-IL?

Typically, the processing time is quite short: for most applicants the response arrives within 24 to 72 hours after applying.

However, it's wise not to wait until the last minute — especially during busy travel periods, holidays, or if your application raises questions. Some sources recommend applying up to one month in advance to avoid stress.

So while you might get approval within a day, allow for a few days buffer when planning your flights or bookings.

What is the cost of the Israel ETA-IL or visa?

As of the latest information:

• The ETA-IL application fee depends on nationality for travellers from visa-exempt countries like South Africa.
• Converted roughly, that is a modest amount (though exchange rates vary).
• Note: This cost is for the online authorisation; if you are applying for a traditional visa (for work, study or longer stay) that may have different cost structures (and is handled differently).
• Also note: Once you change passport, change name/gender, or change citizenship, you’ll need to apply again (and pay again) for a new ETA-IL.
• Please check the official application portal at the time you apply for any updates to fees.

What if I want to stay more than 90 days?

Good question — if your plan involves staying in Israel for longer than 90 days (for example an extended holiday, family visit, long-term study or other reasons) then the ETA-IL will not suffice alone. Here’s what you should know:

• The ETA-IL grants short-term stays of up to 90 days per visit.
• If you plan to stay beyond 90 days, you’ll need to apply for the appropriate visa category (for example a long-stay visa or residence permit) ahead of time through the proper channels.
• Extensions of a stay using the ETA-IL may not always be possible (or may require special approval). Some sources say you cannot rely on ETA for longer stays and must shift to the appropriate visa.
• Arriving with the intention of staying longer than 90 days on an ETA-IL may lead to problems with border control, or the need to apply for extension/visa from within Israel, which can be more complex.

In short: if your stay is over 90 days, plan ahead — you should look into the correct visa category rather than just the ETA-IL.

Can I travel to Israel and then exit/enter multiple times on the same ETA/visa?

Yes — for the ETA-IL at least, the authorisation allows multiple entries (within the validity period) for stays up to 90 days each.

However:

• Multiple entries do not mean unlimited or indefinite stays. Each visit still must comply with the “up to 90 days” rule and that the total usage fits within the authorisation.
• Border officials retain discretion: frequent re-entries, very long stays, or patterns that suggest you are working or living illegally may result in extra questioning or denial of entry. (Travellers report being asked questions about purpose of stay, travel frequency)
• If you renew your passport or change key details (name, gender, citizenship) you must apply for a fresh authorisation before using the new passport.

So yes — the ETA-IL supports multiple entry, but always respect the rules around stay durations and ensure your travel patterns don’t raise unintended red flags.

Can I enter multiple times with the Israel ETA-IL (single vs multiple entry)?

The ETA-IL is clearly designed for multiple entries: once approved, you may use it to enter Israel multiple times during its validity (usually up to 2 years) provided each stay does not exceed the allowed duration (typically 90 days) and you still hold the same passport you used for the application.

Here are some specifics:

• If your authorisation is tied to Passport #12345 and that passport is still valid, you can go in and out multiple times until the ETA-IL expires or the passport expires.
• If you change your passport, you cannot “carry over” the old ETA-IL — you’ll need to apply again using the new passport.
• There’s no indication that the ETA-IL is “single entry only” for eligible countries; instead the multiple entry wording is standard.
• Always check the confirmation details you receive to note whether your authorisation is single or multiple entry (but for most ETA-IL cases it’s multiple entry).

Can I extend my Israel ETA-IL?

No, you generally cannot “extend” the ETA-IL for longer stays beyond the 90-day per visit limit. If you need to stay longer, you must apply for a visa appropriate to your purpose of stay.

To break that down:

• ETA-IL is made for short visits (tourism, business) up to 90 days per visit.
• If you anticipate a longer stay, shift of purpose (work, full-time study, volunteering) or residence, you’ll need a different visa type.
• Attempting to “stretch” the ETA-IL stay beyond 90 days may lead to complications at border control, issues with immigration during the stay, or possible denial of re-entry.
• In short: treat the ETA-IL as the tool for “short trip only” and plan if your needs differ.

What happens if my Israel ETA-IL application is rejected?

While most applications for ETA-IL by eligible travellers are approved, there is always a possibility of rejection. Here’s what to expect and what you can do:

• If your application is rejected, you’ll receive a notification (usually via email) and you will not be allowed to board a flight to Israel on the basis of the ETA-IL. Airlines typically check authorisations before boarding.
• A rejection doesn’t necessarily mean a permanent ban — but you should check the reason for rejection and whether you may reapply. Common issues include incomplete/wrong information, passport detail mismatch, prior travel or immigration issues, or security concerns.
• If your purpose of travel is not covered by an ETA-IL (for example planned work, long term study, residence) the authorisation is not the correct route and you’ll need a proper visa category.
• If you still travel without a valid authorisation, you risk being denied boarding, or denied entry into Israel, or turned back at the border.
• So if you get a rejection: review your details carefully, ensure you are eligible for the ETA-IL route, correct any errors, or determine if you need a different visa type. Then reapply accordingly.

Can minors travel to Israel from South Africa?

Yes — minors (children under 18) can travel to Israel from South Africa, but they still need the relevant travel authorisation (ETA-IL) if their nationality is South African and they are travelling for tourism/business short stay.

Key points for minors:

• A parent or legal guardian usually completes the ETA-IL application on behalf of the minor.
• The passport of the minor must be valid (and details accurate) and the authorisation must be linked to that passport.
• Additional documentation may be wise: parental consent letter if the minor is travelling without one or both parents, proof of accommodation, itinerary, etc.
• Make sure the name on the passport matches the name on the authorisation.
• In short: treat minors the same as adult travellers for the ETA-IL process, but apply ahead and ensure all supporting details are clear.

Is there an option for a work or study visa separate from ETA-IL for South Africans?

Yes — if your purpose in Israel is beyond short-term tourism or business (for example work, long-term study, volunteering, residence) then the ETA-IL route is not sufficient. You’ll need to apply for the correct visa category.

Here’s how this works:

• For work: There are visas available in Israel for employment (for example the “work visa” category). One such example is the caregivers-work visa category.
• For study: If you’re enrolling in a full-time academic programme beyond the 90-day threshold, you will need a student visa (not the short-stay ETA-IL).
• The application for these visas involves more documentation: employment contract, academic enrolment, criminal clearance certificate, medical tests, sometimes proof of accommodation, etc.
• These visas tend to take longer to process, may require in-person interview, and may limit your ability to do “holiday short trips” under the ETA-IL while the longer stay is in place.

Therefore, if your plan is something more than a few weeks or months of tourism/business, don’t rely on the ETA-IL — look into the proper visa category early.

Do I need medical insurance for my trip?

While the ETA-IL application doesn’t always explicitly ask for proof of medical or travel insurance at the time of application, it’s strongly recommended (and in fact wise) to have travel and medical insurance when travelling from South Africa to Israel.

Here’s why:

• Healthcare in Israel can be expensive for visitors, and unexpected illness or accident can cause major cost.
• Some travel agents operating tours into Israel advise travellers to have comprehensive travel and medical insurance.
• Having insurance is a good “just in case” buffer and shows the border/immigration authorities you are a genuine visitor and have preparations in place.
• Make sure your insurance covers the duration of your stay, covers medical evacuation if needed, and covers any travel interruption.
• In short: yes — you should plan for and purchase travel/medical insurance for peace of mind and practical protection.

What if I have a criminal record — will I be denied entry into Israel?

Having a criminal record doesn’t automatically mean you will be denied an ETA-IL or entry into Israel, but it does mean you may face closer scrutiny, and there’s a higher risk your authorisation is refused or you are denied entry at the border. Some points to keep in mind:

• In the application you’ll likely be asked questions about criminal history or security issues (see the “history and background” section of typical forms).
• If you have serious criminal convictions (especially recent ones, or ones that suggest ongoing risk) there is a chance the travel authorisation is refused or you will face questions on arrival.
• Even with a valid ETA-IL, entry is never guaranteed — border officers can refuse entry for any reason permitted by Israeli law.
• If your record is minor, many travellers still get approved, but you should be honest on your form and prepared with any supporting information (e.g., rehabilitation, time passed since offence, etc.).
• If you’re unsure, you might consult with a visa advisor or the relevant Israeli immigration/entry authority for your region, ahead of travel.

Travel Tips

Here are some practical and friendly travel-hacks and reminders to make your trip to Israel as smooth as possible:

• Apply early: Don’t wait until the last minute to submit your ETA-IL. Although it may only take 24-72 hours, unexpected hiccups (passport issue, payment problem, heavy application volume) can delay you.
• Check your passport validity: Make sure your South African passport has good validity ahead of your departure (some recommend 3 months beyond return date). Renew if needed.
• Print/email your approval: Even though the authorisation is electronic, carry a printed copy or screenshot of your approval email. It gives added confidence at check-in or border.
• Have travel insurance: As above — get your travel/medical insurance sorted!
• Observe the stay limit: If your visit is up to 90 days, fine. But avoid the temptation to stretch, or to treat the ETA-IL like long-term residence.
• Respect border control: On arrival you may be asked about your accommodation, return ticket, purpose of visit — answer clearly and honestly.
• Multiple‐entry wise usage: If you plan to exit and re-enter Israel multiple times on the same authorisation, be sensible. Border officers do look at your travel patterns and may question frequent short stays or very long accumulations of stay time.
• Keep receipts and documents: Accommodation bookings, flight return tickets, travel itinerary – these help to show you’re a genuine temporary visitor.
• Avoid illegal work or study: If you plan to study or work, apply for the correct visa. Doing paid work illegally on a tourist authorisation can lead to deportation or future entry refusal.
• Stay aware of rule changes: Immigration regulations change from time to time — check the official Israel ETA-IL portal before you apply.
• Mind your return ticket: While not always enforced strictly, a return or onward ticket helps show you’re leaving Israel within permitted stay.
• Respect culture and local laws: Israel has its own local rules, security checks, bag inspections at transport hubs. Be polite, patient, and plan extra time for arrival, especially during busy seasons or holidays.

Israel ETA-IL FAQs

Here are some frequently asked questions in a Q&A style to wrap things up:

Q: How soon should I apply for the ETA-IL?

A: As soon as your travel is confirmed. At least 72 hours before departure is recommended.

Q: What if my passport expires in six months or less?

A: Make sure your passport is still valid for your stay and beyond. Many airlines/immigration rules expect at least 3 months validity beyond your arrival date. If your passport is near expiry, renew it before you apply.

Q: Can I study in Israel on the ETA-IL?

A: Yes, for short-term study up to 90 days. But for longer study programmes, you’ll need a student visa.

Q: Can I work in Israel on the ETA-IL?

A: No — the ETA-IL is not intended for employment. If you intend to work, apply for the correct work visa.