Visiting South Africa visa-free: which countries are eligible?

Travellers from over 100 countries can visit South Africa without a visa, making it quick and easy to arrange a trip.

This guide explains which passports are eligible for visa-free travel to South Africa, and how the exemption works. You’ll also find a reminder of the key documents you need to visit the country if you’re travelling without a visa.

What is visa-free entry?

Having visa-free access to South Africa means you can travel without applying for a visa in advance, or getting one on arrival. If you benefit from a visa exemption, you’ll enjoy a quicker and more straightforward border crossing.

It’s essential to remember that even if you do not need a visa to travel to South Africa, you must meet all other entry requirements.

South Africa’s entry rules for travellers with visa exemption

If you’re eligible for visa-free travel to South Africa, you must present certain documentation on arrival to be granted entry to the country.

Your passport does not guarantee entry — the final decision rests with border officials. Here are the key documents you must carry when you travel:

Passport — valid for at least 30 days following your departure South Africa Travel Declaration — completed online before you travel

You may also be asked to show:

Proof of onward travel — flight tickets or another type of transport booking Evidence of funds — bank statement showing sufficient means to cover your stay

If you're arriving from a country with a risk of yellow fever, you must show a valid yellow fever vaccination certificate.

Countries with visa-free access to South Africa

Here’s a list of countries whose citizens can visit South Africa without applying for a visa.

All passport holders from these nations can visit South Africa visa-free for up to 90 days without a visa.

Travellers from countries with an asterisk () can stay for a maximum of 30 days without a visa.

Citizens of Angola, Ghana, Kenya, Madagascar, Namibia, the Seychelles, Tanzania, and Zambia are permitted to stay for up to 90 consecutive days per year.

Requirements for visa-free travellers in South Africa

Even though you can travel without a visa, you must comply with the conditions of your authorised entry.

This includes how long you stay in South Africa, and the activities you take part in while you’re in the country.

Reminder: Even if you’re visa-exempt, you must present a completed Travel Declaration on arrival in South Africa, along with your passport.

Can I extend my visa-free stay in South Africa?

If you want to stay for longer than your initial entry authorisation allows, you can apply for an extension through the South African Department of Home Affairs.

It’s important to submit your application well before your permitted period of stay ends to avoid any complications.

What happens if I overstay my visa exemption period?

Overstaying your visa exemption can lead to penalties, including fines and possible restrictions on future visits.

When you arrive in South Africa, your entry date will be stamped in your passport. Make plans to leave the country before your permitted period of stay expires. Alternatively, you can apply for an extension.

Can I work or study with my visa exemption?

Visa-free access only covers short-term tourism or business visits. It’s also valid for visiting family and friends in South Africa.

If you plan to work or study, you’ll need to apply for a visa through a South African embassy or consulate.