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🇿🇦South Africa

Visitor Visa (South Africa)

Visitor Visa

South Africa requires a visitor visa for nationals of many countries, while over 70 nationalities enjoy visa-free entry for 30-90 days. The visa covers tourism, visiting family, attending conferences, and short business trips.

Duration
Up to 90 days (visa-exempt) or as granted on visa
Processing Time
5-15 business days at the Embassy/Consulate
Cost
Free for most nationalities (some countries charged a reciprocal fee)
Requirements
  • Valid passport with at least 30 days validity beyond intended departure and 2 blank pages
  • Return or onward flight ticket
  • Proof of sufficient funds for the stay
  • Yellow fever vaccination certificate if arriving from an endemic country
  • No criminal record
How to Apply
  1. 1

    Check if your nationality requires a visa at dha.gov.za or your nearest South African Embassy

  2. 2

    If visa required: download the visitor visa application form (DHA-84) from the DHA website

  3. 3

    Complete the application form and gather all required supporting documents

  4. 4

    Book an appointment at the South African Embassy, Consulate, or VFS Global centre

  5. 5

    Attend the appointment and submit your application, passport, and documents

  6. 6

    Pay any applicable fees (free for most nationalities)

  7. 7

    Wait for processing (5-15 business days)

  8. 8

    Collect your passport with visa — or receive it by courier

Documents Required
  • Valid passport with at least 2 blank pages and 30 days validity beyond departure
  • Completed DHA-84 application form
  • Recent passport photographs (2 copies)
  • Confirmed return or onward flight ticket
  • Proof of financial means (bank statements for 3 months)
  • Proof of accommodation (hotel booking or invitation from SA host)
  • Yellow fever vaccination certificate (if arriving from endemic region)
  • Travel insurance (recommended)

Popular For

touristssafari travelersbusiness travelersfamily visitors
Apply on Official Website

Always verify current requirements on the official government website. Visa rules change frequently.

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