Timor-Leste: do South Africans need a visa?
South Africans can get a visa on arrival in Timor-Leste. You can stay up to 30 days per visit, and you can apply to extend.
Visa on arrival. South Africa is not on the visa-exemption list. Tourist visas can be obtained on arrival at official border posts where the criteria are met.12
Before you travel
Purpose of visit
Tourist visa covers tourism. A separate business visa exists (not researched in detail).1
Confirmed on an official government source
Passport validity
At least 6 months from the date of entry.1
Confirmed on an official government source
How to apply
On arrival at Dili's Presidente Nicolau Lobato International Airport, Dili seaport, or another official border post with a Migration Service presence. Fee USD 30, cash in US dollars. No e-visa. People previously refused entry or with unpaid fines must apply in advance at an overseas office.14
Confirmed on an official government source
Where South Africans apply
On arrival in Timor-Leste. No Timor-Leste mission in South Africa was found.1
Not yet confirmed by an official source
Travel insurance
Not published by official sources
Return or onward ticket
Onward ticket or booking may be requested.1
Confirmed on an official government source
Proof of funds
USD 100 for each entry plus USD 50 for each day of stay.1
Confirmed on an official government source
Accommodation or invitation
Accommodation arrangements may be requested. No invitation needed.1
Confirmed on an official government source
Vaccinations, including yellow fever on return to South Africa
Timor-Leste requires a yellow fever certificate if arriving from a yellow fever risk country (relevant if routing via Africa or South America). Timor-Leste is not a yellow fever risk country, so South Africa does not require a certificate when you return directly.3
Not yet confirmed by an official source
Arrival forms
Online customs e-Declaration (combined arrival card) is mandatory. Complete it at tilesw.customs.gov.tl up to 5 days before arrival; it gives a QR code to show on arrival. The Migration Service also lists a completed arrival declaration as a visa requirement.13
Confirmed on an official government source
Extending your stay and overstaying
Transit
Not published by official sources
Travelling with children
Not published by official sources
Sources
Official
The destination's own government
- 1Migration Service of Timor-Leste migracao.gov.tl
- 2Migration Service of Timor-Leste migracao.gov.tl
News and guides
Leads we check, never the answer
- 3Timor-Leste tourism website (timorleste.tl) timorleste.tl
- 4Rezerva.tl rezerva.tl
Last researched 5 October 2026. Rules change; confirm with the embassy before you book.