Student visa · Aruba to South Africa

Student Visa (Study Permit)

Embassy required

• Processing time: 8-12 weeks
• Fee: ZAR 425 (approx. $24 USD) + VFS service fee ZAR 1,550 (approx. $87 USD)
• Validity: Full duration of study programme
• Entry: Single entry

International students wanting to study in South Africa for a course extending 3 months (90 days) or longer must apply for a student visa. The school must be registered with the Department of Basic Education or Department of Higher Education. The visa remains valid for the entire duration of the program.

Eligibility

• Nationality

  Available to all nationalities

• Purpose of visit

  Must have acceptance letter from a South African institution registered with Department of Basic Education or Department of Higher Education

  Includes

  • Study at registered institution
• Health

  Must provide medical reports no older than 6 months. If 18+, must provide police clearance from every country lived in for 12+ months since age 18

  Required vaccinations: Vaccination certificate required

Documents you need

• Passport

  Blank pages required: 2; Validity months: 1

• Photo

  Count: 2; Specifications: Recent passport-size photographs

• Proof of funds

  Accepted forms: Bank statements, scholarship letter, sponsor financial guarantee; Minimum amount: Sufficient funds for tuition, accommodation, and living expenses

• Travel insurance

  Coverage area: South Africa; Minimum coverage: Medical aid cover from registered South African medical aid scheme for 1 year or full program duration

• Visa fee payment

  Accepted methods: Payment at VFS Global center or embassy; Amount: ZAR 425 DHA fee + ZAR 1,550 VFS service fee

• Medical fitness

  Provide a medical fitness certificate if the destination requires one for this route.

How to apply

1. Document gathering

   Obtain acceptance letter from institution. Gather passport, photos, bank statements, medical reports (under 6 months), vaccination certificate, police clearance (if 18+), and medical aid cover proof

2. Document submission

   Complete application form B1-1738. Submit application at South African embassy/consulate or VFS Global center

3. Fee payment

   Pay ZAR 425 DHA fee and ZAR 1,550 VFS service fee

4. Processing wait

   Wait 8-12 weeks for processing (apply as soon as you accept study offer)

5. Visa collection

   Collect study permit from embassy/consulate

• Apply for an e-Visa online (opens in new tab)

This information is general guidance only and can change frequently. Always verify with the official embassy or consulate before making travel plans. Contact [email protected] for help.