South African visitors’ visas are for international travellers (citizens of other countries) who have permanent residence outside South Africa and who wish to visit the country on a temporary basis for tourism or business purposes for a period of 90 days or less.  A visa simply indicates that your application has been reviewed at a South African embassy, mission or consulate and that the consular officer has determined that you are eligible to enter the country for a specific purpose.

The visa will allow you to travel to a South African port of entry, where an immigration official will then determine if you are allowed to enter South Africa and for how long you can stay for that particular visit. Visitors are restricted to the activity or purpose for which their visas were issued.  On entry to South Africa, a visa is considered to be a visitor’s permit. The permit’s period of validity is calculated from the date of entry into the country and will be set out under the heading “conditions” on the visa label. You must ensure that you apply for the correct visa/permit. Entry into the country may be refused if the purpose of the visit is not correctly stated. 

Requirements for visitor’s visas differ from country to country (click here to see which countries are currently exempt), and the requirements are subject to change. Each application is treated on an individual case and you should make enquiries with your nearest South African mission or consulate abroad or any office of the Department of Home Affairs to see whether you are required to apply for a visa. 

Remember that there is a fee charged for issuing a visa, and you should check the cost with the office as well, as this is updated annually. The fee is payable in different currencies in different countries. Visas are not issued at South African ports of entry and airline officials are obliged to insist on visas before allowing passengers to board. If you arrive without a visa, immigration officials are obliged to put you on a flight back to your home country.

Foreigners with long-term status (work permits/permit residence) in the neighbouring countries who transit the Republic to return to their employment or residence are not subject to the transit visa, provided that they are in possession of their proof of status.

• visits to family or friends and also for tourism purposes
• business purposes
• spouse to join a spouse who is in South Africa on a work or study visa
• children to join parents who are in South Africa on work or study visas
• study purposes
• charitable or voluntary activities
• research
• conferences
• to work in the production of a movie or show (i.e. in the entertainment industry)
• medical purposes, when a patient needs to receive lifesaving treatment. (maximum stay of three months) 
• sports events

• A passport or travel document valid for no less than 30 days after the expiry of your intended visit
• Your passport must have at least one unused page for entry/departure endorsements
• A completed Form BI-84 (application for a visa)
• Payment of the prescribed fee
• A yellow-fever vaccination certificate (if required)
• Statement and/or documentation confirming the purpose and duration of your visit
• Two colour passport photographs, return or onward ticket if you are travelling by air
• If you have children (minors) travelling with you or joining you in South Africa, you will need to provide the following additional documents:
  • Unabridged birth certificates, proof of guardianship or custody or
  • Consent from the guardian in the case of an unaccompanied minor
• Proof of financial means to pay for your living expenses while in South Africa in the form of:
  • Bank statements, salary advances, undertakings by the host(s) in South Africa Bursary, medical cover or
  • Cash available (including credit cards and travellers’ cheques)

You will need the following if you wish to visit South Africa:

• A valid and acceptable passport or travel document for your intended stay
• At least one blank page in your passport for endorsements
• A valid visa, if required, and sufficient funds to pay for your day-to-day expenses during your stay
• A return or onward ticket
• Yellow fever certificates if your journey starts or entails passing through the yellow fever belt of Africa or South America. 

Don't forget that there are certain goods that you cannot bring into South Africa and other goods on which duties need to be paid.

• Customs requirements
• Agricultural requirements

Citizens who are holders of a national passport (diplomatic, official and ordinary) of foreign countries/territories/international organisations listed below are not required to hold a visa when reporting to an immigration officer for an examination at a South African port of entry, subject to the terms and conditions set out on this list, including inter alia the intended period of stay in the Republic.

1. The holder of a national South African passport, travel document and document for travel purposes.
2. Citizens holding a national passport (diplomatic, official, or ordinary) of the following countries, territories, or international organisations do not need a visa for visiting South Africa. This applies for purposes covered by a visitor's permit, or for those accredited in South Africa under section 31(3)(b), for a stay of 90 days or less and while in transit.

• African Union Laissez Passer 
• Andorra
• Argentina
• Australia
• Austria
• Belgium
• Botswana
• Brazil
• Canada
• Chile (only ordinary passport holders)
• Czech Republic 

• Visas for medical treatment
• Visas for working in the entertainment industry
• Visas for attending a conference
• Visas for compliance with Treaty conditions
• Visas for crew (maritime)
• Visas for cultural/economic/social exchange programmes
• Transit visas (foreigners en route to the neighbouring countries) 

This visitor’s visa is issued to people who want to visit South Africa for medical treatment of less than three months.

All applications for visits for medical purposes must:

• Include a letter from a Medical Practitioner or medical institution, indicating the nature of the ailment, the reason/necessity for treatment, the period of treatment and particulars of the appointment(s) made in South Africa.
• Include full details of the person or institution responsible for the medical expenses and hospital fees. If your medical scheme or employer is liable for the expenses incurred, proof of medical cover must be submitted.
• People who require medical treatment for longer than three months must apply for a temporary residency permit.
• Emergency patients transported by emergency flights or vehicles will be allowed entry if they do not have a visa. Immigration officers will facilitate their entry by not applying clearance procedures.
• However, the person in charge of the emergency flight (or the pilot, the driver of the vehicle or the aircraft /vehicle owner) must report the entry and presence of the patient as soon as possible to an office of the Department of Home Affairs.
• An immigration officer will visit the patient and, if necessary, will issue the necessary medical permit. If the patient does not have a valid passport, she/he will be issued a permit to legalise his/her stay for the duration of his or her hospitalisation.

If you are from a country that is not exempt from South African visa requirements and do not intend to work for longer than six months, then:

• You must submit an application for a visa with the relevant documentation as listed on the application form, pay the prescribed fee, and you must also request authorisation to work on the visitor’s visa at your nearest South African embassy or mission.
• If approved, your visa will be endorsed to allow you to stay and work for a period of between 30 and 90 days. 

Foreigners who are contemplating investing in the South African economy by establishing a business or by investing in an existing business in the country must apply for a business visa. As an applicant, you will be required to invest a prescribed financial capital contribution.

To invest in or open a business in South Africa, you will need to, along with Form BI-1738, submit a certificate issued by a chartered accountant registered with the South African Institute of Chartered Accountants to the effect that you have:

• Fully completed the application form in detail and signed.
• Valid passport which expires in no less than 30 days after expiry of the intended date of departure from the Republic.
• The application is being submitted in person, no less than 60 days before the expiry date of the applicant’s visa and if the visa was issued for less than 30 days, not later than seven working days before the expiry of the visa.
• A yellow fever vaccination certificate if that person travelled or intends travelling from or transiting through a yellow fever endemic area (provided that the certificate shall not be required where that person travelled or intends travelling in direct transit through such area).
• Police clearance certificate issued by the police or security authority of a country where the applicant resided for longer than 12 months in the last five years before submitting the current application, and the certificate shall not be older than six months at the time of its submission.
• A medical report, signed by a Medical Practitioner, reflecting their practice number, address and contact details, and the report shall not be older than six months at the time of its submission.
• Marriage certificate or, in the case of a foreign spousal relationship, proof of official recognition thereof issued by the authorities of the foreign country of the applicant (where applicable).
• The affidavit where a spousal relationship to a South African citizen or resident is applicable, as well as documentation proving cohabitation and the extent to which the related financial responsibilities are shared by the parties and setting out the particulars of children in the spousal relationship.
• Divorce decree, where applicable.
• Court order granting full or specific parental responsibilities and rights, where applicable.
• Death certificate, in respect of the late spouse, where applicable.
• Written consent from both parents and full parental responsibilities, where applicable.
• Proof of adoption where applicable.
• Legal separation order, where applicable.
• Proof of payment of the applicable fee

• A certificate issued by a Chartered Accountant registered with the South African Institute of Chartered Accountants or a professional accountant registered with the South African Institute of Professional Accountants to the effect that-
  • at least an amount in cash to be invested in the Republic as determined from time to time by the Minister, after consultation with the Minister of Trade and Industry, by notice in the Gazette, is available; or
  • at least an amount in cash and a capital contribution, as determined from time to time by the Minister, after consultation with the Minister of Trade and Industry, by notice in the Gazette is available.
  • Undertaking by the applicant that at least 60% of the total staff complement to be employed in the operations of the business shall be South African citizens or permanent residents employed permanently in various positions (provided that proof of compliance with this undertaking shall be submitted within 12 months of issuance of the visa).
• An undertaking to register with the–
  • • South African Revenue Service (SARS);
    • Unemployment Insurance Fund (UIF);
    • Compensation Fund for Occupational Injuries and Diseases;
    • Companies and Intellectual Properties Commission (CIPC), where legally required; and
    • Relevant professional body, board or council recognised by SAQA in terms of section 13(1) (i) of the National Qualifications Framework Act, where applicable. (provided that upon registration, all certificates shall be submitted to the Director-General).
• A letter of recommendation from the Department of Trade and Industry regarding:
  • the feasibility of the business; and
  • the contribution to the national interest of the Republic

Work visas are issued only to foreigners where South African citizens with the relevant skills are not available for appointment. These visas are issued for a fixed duration, which varies depending on the type of work visa being applied for, and applications are lodged through Visa Facilitation Services Centres (VFS) across the country or the nearest South African embassy, mission or consulate abroad.

General work visas are valid for the duration of the contract of employment or a period not exceeding 5 years. 

To apply, you must submit the following documents:

• Application form fully completed in detail and signed.
• An original passport and a copy authenticated by the issuing authority of the country of origin with a valid visa as proof of current status in the Republic.
• The passport is valid and expires in no less than 30 days after expiry of the intended date of departure from the Republic in terms of regulation 9(1)(a)
• The application is being submitted in person, no less than 60 days before the expiry date of the applicant’s visa and if the visa was issued for less than 30 days, not later than seven working days before the expiry of the visa.
• A medical report, signed by a Medical Practitioner, reflecting their practice number, address and contact details, and the report shall not be older than six months at the time of its submission.
  • Police clearance certificate issued by the police or security authority of a country where the applicant resided for longer than 12 months in the last five years before submitting the current application, which certificate shall not be older than six months at the time of its submission.
• A yellow fever vaccination certificate if that person travelled or intends travelling from or transiting through a yellow fever endemic area (provided that the certificate shall not be required where that person travelled or intends travelling in direct transit through such an area)
• Marriage certificate or in the case of a foreign spousal relationship, proof of official recognition thereof issued by the authorities of the foreign country of the applicant (where applicable).
• The affidavit where a spousal relationship to a South African citizen or resident is applicable, as well as documentation proving cohabitation and the extent to which the related financial responsibilities are shared by the parties and setting out the particulars of children in the spousal relationship.
• Divorce decree, where applicable.
• Court order granting full or specific parental responsibilities and rights, where applicable.
• Death certificate, in respect of the late spouse, where applicable.
• Written consent from both parents and full parental responsibilities, where applicable.
• Proof of adoption where applicable.
• Legal separation order, where applicable.
• A written undertaking by the employer accepting responsibility for the costs related to the deportation of the applicant and his or her dependent family members, should it become necessary.
• A written undertaking by the employer to ensure that the passport of his or her employee is valid at all times for the duration of his or her employment.
• Proof of qualifications evaluated by SAQA and translated by a sworn translator into one of the official languages of the Republic; and
• Full particulars of the employer, including, where applicable, proof of registration of the business with the Commission on Intellectual Property and Companies (CIPC).
• An undertaking by the employer to inform the Director-General, should the applicant not comply with the provisions of the Act, or conditions of the visa.
• An undertaking by the employer to inform the Director-General upon the employee no longer being in the employ of such employer, or when he or she is employed in a different capacity or role.
• Proof of payment
• A certificate issued by a Chartered Accountant registered with the South African Institute of Chartered Accountants or a professional accountant registered with the South African Institute of Professional Accountants to the effect that:
  1. at least an amount in cash to be invested in the Republic as determined from time to time by the Minister, after consultation with the Minister of Trade and Industry, by notice in the Gazette, is available or already invested; or
  2. at least an amount in cash and a capital contribution as determined from time to time by the Minister, after consultation with the Minister of Trade and Industry, by notice in the Gazette, is available or already invested,
• Proof that at least 60% of the total staff complement employed in the operations of the business are South African citizens or permanent residents employed permanently in various positions.
• Proof of registration with the-
  1. South African Revenue Service;
  2. Unemployment Insurance Fund;
  3. Compensation Fund for Occupational Injuries and Diseases;
  4. Companies and Intellectual Properties Commission (CPIC), where legally required; and
  5. Relevant professional body, board or council recognised by SAQA in terms of section 13(1) (i) of the National Qualifications Framework Act, where applicable.
• A letter of recommendation from the Department of Trade and Industry regarding:
  1. the feasibility of the business; and
  2. the contribution to the national interest of the Republic.
• A foreigner who invests or has invested in an existing business shall, in addition, submit-
  1. financial statement in respect of the preceding financial year; and
  2. proof of investment

The applicant must, within 12 months of the visa being issued, submit to the Director-General a letter of confirmation from the Department of Labour, that 60% of the staff complement employed in the operations of the business are South African citizens or permanent residents who are employed permanently in various positions.

Critical skills work visas are issued for a period not exceeding five years) and to apply one you must submit the following:

• Application form fully completed in detail and signed.
• An original Passport and a copy authenticated by the issuing authority of the country of origin with a valid visa as proof of current status in the Republic.
• The Passport is valid and expires in no less than 30 days after expiry of the intended date of departure from the Republic in terms of regulation 9(1)(a)
• The application is being submitted in person, no less than 60 days before the expiry date of the applicant’s visa and if the visa was issued for less than 30 days, not later than seven working days before the expiry of the visa.
• A medical report, signed by a Medical Practitioner, reflecting their practice number, address and contact details, and the report shall not be older than six months at the time of its submission.
• Police clearance certificate issued by the police or security authority of a country where the applicant resided for longer than 12 months in the last 5 years before submitting the current application , which certificate shall not be older than six months at the time of its submission.
• A yellow fever vaccination certificate if that person travelled or intends travelling from or transiting through a yellow fever endemic area: (Provided that the certificate shall not be required where that person travelled or intends travelling in direct transit through such an area)
• Offer of employment / contract of employment stipulating the conditions of employment and signed by both the employer and the applicant.
• A written undertaking by the employer accepting responsibility for the costs related to the deportation of the applicant and his or her dependent family members, should it become necessary
• A written undertaking by the employer to ensure that the passport of his or her employee is valid at all times for the duration of his or her employment.
• Proof that the applicant falls within the critical skills category by specifically selecting ONE occupation/critical skill for which the application is being made. The occupation/critical skill must be on the latest Critical Skills List. Selection must be done with a black pen.
• Proof of evaluation of the foreign qualification by SAQA and translated by a sworn translator into one of the official languages of the Republic, indicating the NQF Level of the qualification..
• If required by law, proof of application for a certificate of registration with the professional body, council or board recognised by SAQA in terms of section 13(1)(i) of the National Qualifications Framework Act;
• Valid Membership to the relevant Professional Body (Not required for University Lecturers)
• A confirmation, in writing, from the relevant professional body, council or board recognised by SAQA in terms of section 13(1)(i) of the National Qualifications Framework Act, or any relevant government Department confirming the skills or qualifications of the applicant and appropriate post-qualification experience (Not required for University Lecturers).
• If married, a marriage certificate. In case of a marriage concluded abroad, proof of official recognition thereof authenticated (apostilled) by the issuing authority of the country of origin, and translated into one of the official languages of the Republic and certified as a correct translation by a sworn translator at the expense of the applicant.
• If in a life partnership, a notarial agreement authenticated (apostilled) by the issuing authority and signed by both parties attesting that-
  1. the permanent homosexual or heterosexual relationship has existed for at least two years before the date of application for a relevant visa, and that the relationship still exists to the exclusion of any other person; and
  2. neither of the parties is a spouse in an existing marriage or a permanent homosexual or heterosexual relationship.
• The affidavit where a spousal relationship to a South African citizen or resident is applicable as well as documentation proving cohabitation and the extent to which the related financial responsibilities are shared by the parties, and setting out the particulars of children in the spousal relationship.
• Full birth certificates in respect of each dependent child
• Proof of a union recognised in terms of the Recognition of Customary Marriages Act, 1998 (Act No. 120 of 1998), where applicable.
• Divorce decree, where applicable.
• Death certificate, in respect of the late spouse, where applicable.
• Legal separation order, where applicable.
• Proof of payment of the applicable fee
• Important Notes:
  1. A critical skills work visa is not a work-seekers visa. All applications must be accompanied by an offer of employment from employers who are verifiable and are in good standing with the Department of Employment and Labour.
  2. For all Corporate General Manager (CGM) and Director occupations, check the additional requirements in Table 10 of the Critical Skills Technical Report
  3. University Lecturers must specify the classification of education subject matter
  4. Engineering applicants registered with a SAQA Professional Body as “Candidate” and others similarly graded in the occupations listed above will be considered for a critical skills work visa, provided they meet all other requirements, and on condition that on receipt of the work visa, they will be working under the supervision of a qualified professional where applicable.
  5. All supporting documents will be verified, including employment and qualifications. An MIE Report (optional), if submitted, will assist with the efforts to verify employment.
  6. A critical skills work visa may be issued for a period not exceeding five years at a time.
  7. Fraudulent Documents: If the Director-General determines that a visa or permanent residence permit was obtained through misrepresentation or fraud, the permit or visa will be revoked. In such cases, criminal charges may be instituted against all individuals involved in the fraudulent activity.
  8. The applicant is personally responsible for all supporting documents submitted with this application.

Occasionally, multinational companies may decide to transfer an existing employee from a foreign branch to a branch in South Africa. These employees must apply for an intra-company transfer work visa. In such cases, no proof of steps taken to obtain the services of a South African citizen/permanent resident will be required. Intra-company transfer work visas are issued for a period not exceeding four years and cannot be renewed or extended.

To apply for one, you must submit:

• Application form fully completed in detail and signed.
• An original Passport and a copy authenticated by the issuing authority of the country of origin with a valid visa as proof of current status in the Republic.
• The passport is valid and expires in no less than 30 days after expiry of the intended date of departure from the Republic in terms of regulation 9(1)(a)
• The application is being submitted in person, no less than 60 days before the expiry date of the applicant’s visa and if the visa was issued for less than 30 days, not later than seven working days before the expiry of the visa.
• A medical report, signed by a Medical Practitioner, reflecting their practice number, address and contact details and the report shall not be older than six months at the time of its submission.
• Police clearance certificate issued by the police or security authority of a country where the applicant resided for longer than 12 months in the last 5 years before submitting the current application, which certificate shall not be older than six months at the time of its submission.
• A yellow fever vaccination certificate if that person travelled or intends travelling from or transiting through a yellow fever endemic area: (provided that the certificate shall not be required where that person travelled or intends travelling in direct transit through such area).
• Marriage certificate or in the case of a foreign spousal relationship, proof of official recognition thereof issued by the authorities of the foreign country of the applicant (where applicable).
• The affidavit where a spousal relationship to a South African citizen or resident is applicable as well as documentation proving cohabitation and the extent to which the related financial responsibilities are shared by the parties and setting out the particulars of children in the spousal relationship
• Proof of a union recognised in terms of the Recognition of Customary Marriages Act, 1998 (Act No. 120 of 1998), where applicable.
• Divorce decree, where applicable.
• Proof of court order awarding custody, where applicable.
• Death certificate, in respect of the late spouse, where applicable.
• Written consent from both parents and/or sole custody parent, where applicable, with proof of sole custody.
• Proof of legal adoption where applicable.
• Legal separation order, where applicable.
• Police clearance certificate issued by the police or security authority of a country where the applicant resided for longer than 12 months in the last five years prior to submitting the current application, which certificate shall not be older than six months at the time of its submission.
• A yellow fever vaccination certificate if that person travelled or intends travelling from or transiting through a yellow fever endemic area: (provided that the certificate shall not be required where that person travelled or intends travelling in direct transit through such area).
• The foreigner's contract of employment with the company abroad is valid for a period of not less than six months.
• A letter from the company abroad confirming that the foreigner shall be transferred to a branch, subsidiary or an affiliate of that company in the Republic.
• A letter from the branch, subsidiary or an affiliate in the Republic confirming the transfer of the foreigner and specifying the occupation and capacity in which that foreigner shall be employed:
• An undertaking by the relevant employer that:
  • a foreigner is only employed in the specific position for which the visa has been issued;
  • the foreign employee will at all times comply with the provisions of the Act and conditions of his or her visa and undertakes to immediately notify the Director-General if the employee refuses to comply with the provisions of the Act or conditions of the visa; and
  • A plan is developed for the transfer of skills to a South African citizen or permanent resident
  • An undertaking by the relevant employer to reimburse the Department any costs incurred in relation to the deportation of the holder of an intra-company transfer work visa and any of his or her dependent family members.
  • Proof of payment of the applicable fee

A corporate visa allows a corporate entity (e.g. a mining group, farmer, etc.) to employ a pre-determined number of skilled/semi-skilled/ unskilled workers. A corporate visa is issued for a period not exceeding three years. Applications must be made at any VFS centres or the nearest South African embassy, mission or consulate abroad.

To apply for a corporate work Visa, the corporate entity will have to:

• Application form fully completed in detail and signed.
• Proof of the need to employ the requested number of foreigners.
• A certificate by the Department of Labour confirming:
• That despite diligent search, the corporate applicant was unable to find suitable citizens or permanent residents to occupy the position available in the corporate entity;
• The job description and proposed remuneration in respect of each foreigner;
• That the salary and benefits of any foreigner employed by the corporate applicant shall not be inferior to the average salary and benefits of citizens or permanent residents occupying similar positions in the Republic (Note: An acknowledgement letter from DoL confirming that this information has been sent to DHA electronically may also be accepted)
• Proof of registration of the corporation with the South African Revenue Service
• Proof of registration of the corporation with the Unemployment Insurance Fund
• Proof of registration of the corporation with the Compensation Fund for Occupational Injuries and Diseases
• Proof of registration of the corporation with the Companies and Intellectual Properties Commission (CIPC), where legally required
• An undertaking by the employer to inform the Director-General should any foreign employee not comply with the provisions of the Act or visa conditions, or is no longer in the employ of such employer, or is employed in a different capacity or role; and
• A written undertaking by the corporate applicant to pay the deportation costs of any foreign employee accepting responsibility for the return costs related to the deportation of the foreign employee, should it be necessary.
• Proof that at least 60% of the total staff complement that are employed in
  • The operations of the business are citizens or permanent residents employed permanently in various positions.
• An undertaking by the corporate applicant giving assurance that:
  • the passport of the foreigner shall be valid at all times,
  • the foreigner shall be employed by the corporate applicant to conduct work for the corporate applicant only in the specific position for which the visa has been issued,
  • such a foreigner departs from the Republic upon completion of his or her contract of employment,
  • any foreigner employed in terms of the corporate visa at all times complies with the provisions of the Act and the terms and conditions of the corporate visa and the corporate work certificate,
  • the Director-General is immediately notified if there is reason to believe that the foreigner is no longer in compliance with the provisions of the Act, and the financial guarantees by the corporate applicant to defray deportation and other costs should the corporate visa be withdrawn, or certain foreigners fail to leave the Republic when no longer subject to the corporate visa, are complied with,
  • Confirmation by the corporate applicant that the application is not for any business undertaking which is listed as undesirable by the Minister from time to time in the Gazette,
  • Proof of payment of the applicable fee.

• The application form fully completed in detail and signed.
• An original passport and a copy authenticated by the issuing authority of the country of origin, with a valid visa as proof of current status in the Republic.
• The passport is valid and expires in no less than 30 days after expiry of the intended date of departure from the Republic in terms of regulation 9(1)(a).
• The application is being submitted in person, no less than 60 days before the expiry date of the applicant’s visa and if the visa was issued for less than 30 days, not later than seven working days before the expiry of the visa.
• A medical report, signed by a Medical Practitioner, reflecting their practice number, address and contact details and the report shall not be older than six months at the time of its submission.
• Police clearance certificate issued by the police or security authority of a country where the applicant resided for longer than 12 months in the last 5 years before submitting the current application, which certificate shall not be older than six months at the time of its submission.
• A yellow fever vaccination certificate if that person travelled or intends travelling from or transiting through a yellow fever endemic area (provided that the certificate shall not be required where that person travelled or intends travelling in direct transit through such area).
• Marriage certificate or in the case of a foreign spousal relationship, proof of official recognition thereof issued by the authorities of the foreign country of the applicant (where applicable).
• The affidavit where a spousal relationship to a South African citizen or resident is applicable, as well as documentation proving cohabitation and the extent to which the related financial responsibilities are shared by the parties and setting out the particulars of children in the spousal relationship (where applicable).
• Divorce decree, where applicable.
• Court order granting full or specific parental responsibilities and rights, where applicable.
• Death certificate, in respect of the late spouse, where applicable.
• Written consent from both parents and full parental responsibilities, where applicable.
• Proof of adoption where applicable:
  • Legal separation order, where applicable.
  • An official letter confirming provisional acceptance or acceptance at that learning institution and the duration of the course.
  • An undertaking by the Registrar or Principal of the learning institution to:
  • provide proof of registration as contemplated in the relevant legislation within 60 days of registration; or
  • In the event of failure to register by the closing date, provide the Director-General with a notification of failure to register within seven days of the closing date of registration;
  • Within 30 days, notify the Director-General that the applicant is no longer registered with such institution; and
  • Within 30 days, notify the Director-General when the applicant has completed his or her studies or requires extension of such period of study.
  • Proof of payment of the applicable fee.
  • The holder of a study visa may conduct part-time work for a period not exceeding 20 hours per week.

The overriding considerations in processing applications for study permits are that:

• No foreigner may displace a South African citizen/resident at a local educational institution.
• The student must have adequate medical cover with a registered South African medical scheme and proof thereof
• Children under the age of 18 who are studying at a learning institution under the Department of Basic Education do not require medical cover in their name. An undertaking of proof of medical cover by the parents is acceptable.

Exchange Visas may be issued to foreigners who are not older than 25 years of age and wish to participate in cultural, economic or social exchange programmes administered by an organ of the State or a public higher educational institution in conjunction with an organ of a foreign state. Applications must be made at any regional office of the Department of Home Affairs or the nearest South African embassy, mission or consulate abroad.

The validity period of an exchange permit depends on the length of the programme for which it is issued and usually does not exceed 12 months. Exchange permits cannot be renewed or extended. Should you successfully apply for an exchange permit, you will not qualify for a temporary residence permit until you have lived outside the Republic of South Africa for at least 12 months. If you require an exchange visa in order to take part in a programme administered or organised by a learning institution in South Africa in conjunction with a learning institution/organ of a foreign state, Section 22(a) of the Immigration Act, 2002 (Act No. 13 of 2002), the following documents are required:

• Application form fully completed in detail and signed.
• An original passport and a copy authenticated by the issuing authority of the country of origin with a valid visa as proof of current status in the Republic.
• The passport is valid and expires in no less than 30 days after expiry of the intended date of departure from the Republic in terms of regulation 9(1)(a)
  • The application is being submitted in person, no less than 60 days before the expiry date of the applicant’s visa and if the visa was issued for less than 30 days, not later than seven working days before the expiry of the visa.
• A medical report, signed by a Medical Practitioner, reflecting the Practice No. of the Practitioner and their address and contact details, which report shall not be older than six months at the time of its submission.
  • Police clearance certificate issued by the police or security authority of a country where the applicant resided for longer than 12 months in the last 5 years before submitting the current application, which certificate shall not be older than six months at the time of its submission.
• A yellow fever vaccination certificate if that person travelled or intends travelling from or transiting through a yellow fever endemic area: (Provided that the certificate shall not be required where that person travelled or intends travelling in direct transit through such an area)
• Marriage certificate or in the case of a foreign spousal relationship, proof of official recognition thereof issued by the authorities of the foreign country of the applicant (where applicable).
• The affidavit where a spousal relationship to a South African citizen or resident is applicable, as well as documentation proving cohabitation and the extent to which the related financial responsibilities are shared by the parties and setting out the particulars of children in the spousal relationship.
• Proof of a union recognised in terms of the Recognition of Customary Marriages Act, 1998 (Act No. 120 of 1998), where applicable.
• Divorce decree, where applicable.
• Proof of court order awarding custody, where applicable.
• Death certificate, in respect of the late spouse, where applicable.
• Written consent from both parents and/or sole custody parent, where applicable, with proof of sole custody.
• Proof of legal adoption where applicable.
• Legal separation order, where applicable.
• Proof of payment of the applicable fee

In addition to the above requirements, in the case of a learning institution in the Republic, in conjunction with a foreign education and training institution or a foreign state institution organising or administering the programme, submit the following:

• proof of a valid return air flight ticket or written undertaking by the organ of state or learning institution accepting responsibility for the return or deportation costs of the applicant, as the case may be
• proof of medical cover for the duration of the exchange period with a medical scheme registered in terms of the Medical Schemes Act.
• the Department of Basic Education or Higher Education and Training or a learning institution in the Republic confirming that it is responsible for organising or administering the existence of the programme, outlining the activities, terms and conditions and duration thereof and accepting full responsibility for the student while he or she is in the Republic; and
• the foreign state institution or education and training institution confirming the particulars of the applicant, the applicant's enrolment with the foreign education and training institution, and the date on which the programme shall commence.

In addition to the above requirements, in the case of a foreigner who is under 25 years of age and has received an offer to conduct work for no longer than one year:

• proof of a valid return air flight ticket or a written undertaking by the employer accepting responsibility for the return or deportation costs of the applicant, as the case may be
• proof of medical cover for the duration of the exchange period with a medical scheme registered in terms of the Medical Schemes Act.
• A written undertaking by the employer to—
  1. pay such foreigner remuneration which complies with applicable legal requirements;
  2. provide for the welfare and the needs of such a foreigner while in the Republic under the aforesaid visa; and
  3. report to the Director-General the failure of the foreigner to comply with the terms of his or her visa or to depart when so required;

Retired persons’ permits may be issued to persons who wish to retire in South Africa, provided that such persons comply with the financial requirements provided for in the Immigration Act, 2002 (Act No. 13 of 2002) and its Regulations. Applications must be made at any regional office of the Department of Home Affairs or the nearest South African embassy, mission or consulate abroad. 

To apply for a retired person’s visa, you must submit the following documents with the Temporary Residency Permit Form BI-1738: 

• A passport with at least one free page for a visa.
• The passport must be valid for 30 days after the expiry of the intended visit
• 2 recent passport size colour photographs
• A photocopy of a valid residential permit, if applicable
• Permit fees (cash or bank transfer);
• A vaccination certificate (if you have travelled through or intend to travel to the yellow fever belt)
• Proof of medical cover
• Medical and radiology reports
• The minimum payment to a foreigner shall be per month, the amount determined from time to time by the Minister, this amount is currently set at R37 000,00.
• A minimum prescribed net worth currently set at R37 000,00.
• A police clearance certificate from each country in which you resided for 12 months or longer since the age of 18 years
• The spouse and dependent children accompanying the holder of a retired person visa may be issued with an appropriate visa.

A relative’s visa may be issued for the prescribed period by the Director-General to a foreigner who is a member of the immediate family of a citizen or a permanent resident, provided that such citizen or permanent resident provides the prescribed financial assurance. The financial assurance contemplated in section 18(1) of the Act shall be an amount, per person and per month, as determined from time to time by the Minister by notice in the Gazette, to be proven by means of a current salary advice or a certified bank statement not older than three months at the time of application: Provided that the financial assurance shall not be required where the South African citizen or permanent resident is a dependent child. The current amount determined by the Minister is R8 500.00. Relative’s visas are issued for a maximum period of two years at a time.

To apply for a relative’s visa, you must submit:

A duly completed application form 

• A passport with at least one free page for a visa.
• The passport must be valid for 30 days after the end of the intended visit
• A vaccination certificate, if required by the Act.
• Payment of the prescribed fee (not applicable for the spouse or dependent children of a South African citizen/permanent resident)
• A cash deposit equivalent value to a return or onward ticket (not required for the spouse or dependent children of a South African citizen/permanent resident).
• A statement and/or documentation confirming the purpose and duration of your visit and proof that you are an immediate family member of a South African citizen/permanent resident (a full birth certificate for children, a marriage certificate in the case of a spouse and proof of kinship for others)
• A police clearance certificate from each country in which you resided for 12 months or longer since the age of 18 years
• Medical and radiology reports for yourself and all family members accompanying you (pregnant women and children younger than 12 years need not submit these reports)
• Proof of South African citizenship or permanent residence of the relative in South Africa in the form of an identity document or passport
• Proof of availability of a minimum amount of R8500 per month per person for living expenses (this does not apply to a spouse or dependent minor child of a South African citizen/ permanent resident)
• The holder of a relative’s visa may not conduct work.

Medical Treatment visas may be issued for a maximum period of six months at a time.

To apply for a medical treatment visa, you must provide the following documentation:

• A duly completed BI-1738 application form
• A passport with at least 1 free page for a visa.
• The passport must be valid for 30 days after the end of the intended visit
• Payment of the prescribed fee.
• Proof of financial means to cover your day to day expenses as well as those of persons accompanying you (the medical permit holder), if any, in the form of:
  • bank statements
  • cash available,
  • or travellers’ cheques
• A letter from your medical practitioner or a medical institution, indicating the reasons/ necessity for treatment, the period of treatment and particulars of the treatment plans in the Republic of South Africa
• Details of the person or institution responsible for your medical expenses and hospital fees
• Should your medical scheme or employer not be liable for expenses incurred, proof of financial means or medical cover must be submitted
• Proof of sufficient financial means or provision for the costs indirectly related to the treatment.
• Particulars of persons accompanying you 

• A copy of a return or onward air ticket.
• Kindly note that the Department may request a cash deposit equivalent to the value of an air ticket to the country of your origin or residence
• A vaccination certificate, if required by law.