In order to enter Israel, South African passport holders are required to obtain an authorization document called the ETA-IL. The ETA-IL is acquired via a short online application, and is typically granted without issue within 2 weeks of applying.

Frequent travelers may recognize this system. The ETA program is similar to a number of visa waiver schemes adopted by countries around the world. You may have filled out an almost identical application known by a different name, such as the Japanese or Australian eVisas.

Waiver schemes like the ETA-IL allow visa-free travelers to continue traveling freely and easily, while improving border security.

As a visa-exempt country, South African passport holders may be used to entering Israel without the need for any documentation at all. This change, which is effective as of 2024, will affect citizens of all countries on Israel’s visa-exempt list.

How can South African citizens apply for the Israel ETA?

Apply for the ETA-IL through the online form. Our form streamlines and simplifies the application process, minimizing the risk of application denial due to trivial factors.

You will be asked to fill out your personal details, and answer questions on the nature of your stay.

  • Your name, date of birth, and country of birth
  • Passport number and expiry
  • Citizenship status
  • Your planned trip dates
  • Whether your stay is short-term

In addition to filling out the form, you will be asked to pay a nominal processing fee. You will need a credit or debit card to do this.

Validity, expiration, and timeline: important information for South African citizens to know

It’s important to know the validity details of time when planning your trip.

Applying for the ETA takes about 15 minutes of active work. Once the form is filled in, the hands-off waiting process takes around two weeks. Allow longer during busy periods in which the authorities are likely to be processing a large volume of applications, such as the Jewish high holidays (September-October).

The ETA for Israel expires after 2 years. This means you can plan ahead of time. Some customers prefer to wait until they have the ETA in hand before booking flights.

Please note that ETA applications are passport-specific. If you have replaced your passport, you will need to apply for a new ETA, even if your previous one has not yet expired. This also applies in cases where your passport information has changed and is no longer synchronized with the information on your ETA-IL, for example if you have legally changed your name.

The ETA is valid only for short term trips of up to three months. During these three months, you are not legally permitted to work in Israel or to engage in full-time study; these cases typically require a formal visa.

Conclusion

The ETA-IL is a new travel requirement which affects citizens of all visa-exempt countries visiting Israel from 2024ƒ onwards. The ETA-IL is acquired through a straightforward online application process, making it faster, easier and more affordable than a traditional visa; however, it is as essential to travel as any other travel document, so it’s essential to make sure you have it filled out correctly in advance.