South Africa Visa Types

Apply for Travel Declaration

Depending on your nationality, the purpose of your visit, and the duration of your stay, you may need a visa to enter South Africa. Regardless of the visa requirements, all passengers need a South Africa Travel Declaration.

If you require a visa, it's essential to apply well in advance of your trip, as the processing time can vary. Be prepared to provide documentation, such as a valid passport, proof of sufficient funds, a return ticket, and proof of accommodation during your stay.

South Africa offers various visas depending on the purpose of your visit. This guide covers the primary visa types, their requirements, and eligibility criteria to help you determine which one suits your travel plans.

South Africa tourist visa

The tourist visa is designed for those planning a short-term visit to South Africa for leisure or family visits.

A South African tourist visa permits a 90-day stay.

SA tourist visa requirements

You need to have the following to apply for a tourist visa:

  • Valid passport
  • Passport-sized photos
  • Completed application form
  • Proof of financial means
  • Round-trip flight itinerary
  • Hotel booking or accommodation
  • Proof of travel insurance (if required)
  • Yellow fever vaccination certificate (if traveling from a yellow fever area)

South Africa business visa

There are 2 different types of business visa: one for short business visits and one for establishing a business.

Short-term business visa

The 90-day visitor business visa is intended for professionals travelling to South Africa to engage in short-term business activities, such as attending meetings, conferences, and seminars.

This visa is suited for entrepreneurs, investors, and business delegates. However, it does not allow direct employment within the country, focusing instead on short-term professional engagements.

SA short-term business visa requirements

You need to have the following for a business visa:

  • Valid passport
  • Passport photos
  • Proof of travel itinerary
  • Completed visa application form
  • Proof of financial means (bank statements)
  • Invitation letter from a South African business
  • Yellow fever vaccination certificate (if applicable)

SA business permit

If you intend to invest or establish a business in South Africa, you’ll need a business permit. This also allows you to live in the country.

SA business permit requirements

You need to meet the following to apply for a business visa:

  • Registered company
  • Police clearance certificate
  • 60% of staff are South African
  • Cash investment (after a consultation)
  • Yellow fever vaccination certificate

Work visa for South Africa

South Africa offers different types of work visas tailored to various professional needs, from skilled specialists to company transfers.

Each work visa enables long-term employment but requires significant documentation to verify the applicant’s employment and qualifications.

  • Critical skills work visa: For professionals with skills in high demand in South Africa
  • General work visa: For those with a job offer but without skills deemed “critical”
  • Intra-company transfer visa: For employees transferred within the same company to a South African branch

Requirements for a SA work visa

All work visas require the following:

  • Valid passport
  • Completed form
  • Passport photos
  • Proof of employment or offer letter
  • Proof of qualifications and relevant work experience
  • Labour Market certificate (for General Work Visa)
  • Proof of travel insurance and financial means
  • Yellow fever vaccination certificate (if applicable)

South African study visa

The study visa is available for foreign nationals who wish to enroll in South African educational institutions, including schools, universities, and colleges.

This visa is valid for the length of the study program and allows international students to stay in the country for academic purposes. While it does not allow full-time work, some part-time work may be permissible based on study terms.

Study visa requirements

You’ll need the following:

  • Valid passport
  • Passport photos
  • Completed visa application form
  • Medical and radiological reports
  • Acceptance letter from a South African institution
  • Proof of sufficient funds for tuition and living expenses
  • Yellow fever vaccination certificate (if required)

Medical visa for South Africa

For individuals seeking medical treatment in South Africa, the medical visa offers an avenue to receive specialised healthcare services from the country’s reputable medical institutions.

The visa duration depends on the length of treatment, making it suitable for patients needing extended or recurrent medical care.

South Africa medical visa requirements

Requirements for a medical visa include:

  • Valid passport
  • Passport photos
  • Proof of medical insurance
  • Completed visa application form
  • Proof of financial means for treatment and stay
  • Yellow fever vaccination certificate (if required)
  • Letter from the South African medical institution outlining the treatment and duration

South Africa volunteer visa

The volunteer visa is designed for individuals who wish to work with NGOs or engage in volunteer activities within South Africa.

Typically issued for up to 3 years, this visa allows volunteers to contribute to social, environmental, and educational programs while residing in the country.

Volunteer visa requirements

To get a volunteer visa you’ll need:

  • Valid passport
  • Passport photos
  • Proof of financial means
  • Proof of travel insurance
  • Completed visa application form
  • Invitation letter from the NGO or volunteer organisation
  • Yellow fever vaccination certificate (if applicable)

Digital Nomad visa for foreign remote workers

In May 2024, South Africa launched a visa for digital nomads. It allows remote employees of foreign companies, as well as freelancers, to live in South Africa for up to 3 years.

To be eligible, you must earn at least R1 million (ZAR) per year. Only remote workers who plan to stay in South Africa for more than 6 months will need to pay local income tax.

Digital nomad visa requirements

The digital nomad visa requires:

  • Valid passport
  • Proof of accommodation
  • Health insurance
  • Proof of income
  • Proof of employment

These visa options cater to various needs, from tourism and business visits to long-term work and study. Always ensure that your application is complete and up to date, as visa requirements may vary based on individual circumstances and are subject to South Africa’s immigration policies.

Don’t forget to also apply for your Travel Declaration, which is mandatory in addition to any visa requirements.