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

One extension of 30 days, fee USD 40, at the Migration Service in Dili. Apply at least 15 days before expiry (reported by a travel site).14

Confirmed on an official government source

Transit

Not published by official sources

Travelling with children

Not published by official sources

Sources

Official

The destination's own government

  1. 1Migration Service of Timor-Leste migracao.gov.tl
  2. 2Migration Service of Timor-Leste migracao.gov.tl

News and guides

Leads we check, never the answer

  1. 3Timor-Leste tourism website (timorleste.tl) timorleste.tl
  2. 4Rezerva.tl rezerva.tl

Last researched 5 October 2026. Rules change; confirm with the embassy before you book.