South Africa passport → Timor-Leste
Timor-Leste visa for citizens of South Africa
Citizens of South Africa can get a visa on arrival in Timor-Leste.
Verified · Last checked . Policies change. Confirm with the embassy or official visa portal before you travel.
Key facts
| Entry route | Visa on Arrival · Tourist |
|---|---|
| How to apply | Get your visa at the border |
| Maximum stay | Up to 30 days |
| Visa validity | 30 days |
| Entries | Single entry |
| Processing time | On arrival |
| Government fee | $30 |
| Passport validity | At least 6 months |
| Biometrics | Not required |
| Appointment | Not required |
| Interview | Not required |
| Onward or return ticket | Required |
How to apply
- 1
Arrive at an international airport in Timor-Leste
The visa on arrival is issued at Presidente Nicolau dos Santos Lobato International Airport in Dili.
- 2
Go to the Visa on Arrival counter
Before passport control, find the visa-on-arrival desk.
- 3
Present your passport and documents
Hand over your passport (valid 6+ months) and your return/onward ticket.
- 4
Pay the visa fee
Pay USD 30 in cash (exact change preferred).
- 5
Receive visa sticker and proceed to immigration
The officer will affix a visa sticker in your passport; then go to passport control.
- 6
Pass through immigration and collect luggage
After stamping, you may enter Timor-Leste for up to 30 days.
Documents checklist
Identity
Valid passport
Must be valid for at least 6 months beyond arrival.
Passport-size photograph
OptionalMay be required – bring one just in case.
Travel
Completed arrival card
Provided on the flight or at the airport.
Return or onward ticket
Must show departure from Timor-Leste within 30 days.
Supporting
Visa fee payment (cash USD)
Pay at the visa-on-arrival counter upon arrival.
Good to know
- Visa on Arrival is only available at Dili airport – not at land borders or seaports.
- Ensure you have USD cash for the fee – no credit cards accepted at the counter.
- Have a printed copy of your return ticket ready.
Common refusal reasons
Passport validity less than 6 months
Check passport validity before travel; renew if necessary.
No return or onward ticket
Book and carry evidence of a flight out of Timor-Leste within 30 days.
Insufficient funds or no cash for fee
Carry at least USD 30 in cash for the visa fee.
Previous overstay or immigration violation
Ensure compliance with prior visas to Timor-Leste.
FAQ
Do citizens of South Africa need a visa for Timor-Leste?
Citizens of South Africa can get a visa on arrival in Timor-Leste. Visa type: Visa on Arrival · Tourist.
How long can citizens of South Africa stay in Timor-Leste?
Up to 30 days.
How much does the Timor-Leste visa cost for citizens of South Africa?
Government fee: $30.
What documents do citizens of South Africa need for Timor-Leste?
Valid passport; Completed arrival card; Return or onward ticket; Visa fee payment (cash USD); Passport-size photograph.
How long must my passport be valid for Timor-Leste?
At least 6 months.
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Timor-Leste visa for other passports
- India
- United States
- United Kingdom
- China
- Philippines
- Nigeria
- Pakistan
- Bangladesh
- Indonesia
- Brazil
- Mexico
- Canada
- All passports for Timor-Leste