From August 1, visitors from visa-exempt countries including South African passport-holders, will be required to obtain Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA-IL) to enter Israel.
Since July 1, the ETA-IL has been open for voluntary free applications as a pilot programme to familiarise travellers with the new system, reports israel-entry.piba.gov.il.
From August, applicants will be charged IL25 (R126) for their mandatory applications and will receive a response to their application within 72 hours of submission.
The approved ETA-IL is valid for two years and allows multiple entries of up to 90 days per visit.
The application for the ETA-IL should be submitted at least 72 hours before making any other travel arrangements, such as booking air tickets and accommodation.