Visa for South Africa

How to Get a Visa to South Africa

Visa for South Africa

South Africa is a popular destination for tourism, business, and study. Entry requirements depend on your nationality, length of stay, and travel purpose. Some visitors can enter visa-free, while others must obtain a visa before travelling. Long-term work and study require specific permits.

This guide explains who needs a visa, the main visa types, and how to apply.

1. Do You Need a Visa?

  • Visa-free entry:
    Citizens of countries like Australia, UK, USA, EU nations, Canada, New Zealand, Japan, Singapore, South Korea and several others can enter South Africa visa-free for up to 30 or 90 days (depending on nationality).
  • Visa required:
    Nationals of India, China, Pakistan, Nigeria, Russia, many African and Middle Eastern countries must apply for a visa before travelling.
  • Long-term stays:
    Anyone planning to work, study, volunteer, retire, or live in South Africa must apply for the appropriate long-stay visa or temporary residence permit.

✅ Check the latest list of exempt countries at: https://www.dha.gov.za

2. Main Visa Types

Visa TypePurposeStay Allowed
Visitor Visa (Short Stay)Tourism, family/friends, businessUp to 90 days
Business VisaBusiness activities, investmentsUp to 90 days, renewable
Study VisaFull-time study in SA institutionsDuration of course
Work Visa (General/Quota/Critical Skills)Employment in SA2–5 years renewable
Retired Person VisaRetirement residence4 years renewable
Volunteer VisaVolunteering with approved organisationsUp to 3 years
Transit VisaAirport transfer if requiredUp to 72 hours

3. Applying for a Short-Stay Visitor Visa

Step 1 — Check Where to Apply

  • Apply at the South African Embassy, High Commission, or VFS Global visa centre in your country.
  • Some countries can use the eVisa system (mainly for tourism and short business).

Step 2 — Gather Required Documents

Typical requirements:

  • Passport valid 30 days beyond departure with 2 blank pages
  • Completed DHA-84 visa application form
  • Two recent passport photos
  • Proof of travel: flight itinerary and accommodation
  • Bank statements/proof of funds (minimum ~USD $50/day recommended)
  • Yellow fever certificate (if coming from affected countries)
  • Invitation letter (if visiting family/friends or business)
  • Travel insurance (recommended but not mandatory)
  • Visa fee payment

Step 3 — Pay the Visa Fee

  • Tourist/visitor visa: ~USD $40–80 (varies by nationality and embassy)

Step 4 — Submit Application

  • In person at embassy/VFS centre or online (if eVisa eligible).
  • Provide biometrics if required.

Step 5 — Wait for Processing

  • Standard processing: 5–15 working days (can take longer in peak seasons or for complex cases).
  • eVisa: often 3–5 business days.

4. Applying for a Long-Stay Visa (Work, Study, Retirement)

Work Visa

  • General Work Visa: Requires a job offer and proof no suitable South African candidate was found.
  • Critical Skills Visa: For professionals in shortage areas — easier process, no job offer needed initially.
  • Intra-Company Transfer Visa: For employees relocating within the same multinational company.

Study Visa

  • Requires an acceptance letter from a South African educational institution.
  • Proof of funds, medical insurance, and police clearance required.

Retired Person Visa

  • Show proof of passive income/pension (currently ~ZAR 37,000/month required).

Volunteer Visa

  • Requires a letter from the South African host organisation confirming the volunteer role.

⚠️ Long-term visa processing can take 8–12 weeks, so apply early.

5. Visa Fees (2025)

Visa TypeApprox. Fee
Visitor / Tourist VisaUSD $40–80
Business VisaUSD $50–100
Study VisaUSD $40–100
Work VisaUSD $150–300
Retired Person VisaUSD $150–250
eVisaUSD $40–50

Fees vary by nationality and embassy; service fees may apply if using VFS Global.

6. Tips for a Smooth Application

  • Apply early: Especially for long-term visas; start at least 2–3 months in advance.
  • Use the official portal: https://www.dha.gov.za or authorised VFS Global centres.
  • Check passport validity: Must be valid 30 days beyond departure.
  • Bring yellow fever certificate: Required if you’ve visited a risk country in the last 6 days.
  • Show proof of funds: Bank statements or payslips help avoid rejection.
  • Print return ticket: Immigration may ask for proof of onward travel.
  • Health insurance recommended: Especially for long stays.

Quick Pre-Travel Checklist

  • Passport valid 30+ days after departure with 2 blank pages
  • Completed visa form & passport photos
  • Flight and hotel bookings / invitation letter
  • Bank statements showing sufficient funds
  • Yellow fever certificate (if applicable)
  • Travel insurance (recommended)
  • Return or onward ticket