Journalist/Media Visa (Long-term)
Embassy required
- Maximum stay
- 1095 days
- Processing time
- 8-12 weeks
- Fee
- ZAR 1,520 (approx. $86 USD) non-refundable application fee
- Validity
- Up to 3 years
- Entry
- Single entry
For journalist assignments exceeding 3 months, a long-term visitor visa for journalists is required. The assignment must be confirmed by the foreign news agency or broadcaster. Valid for up to 3 years. Requires accreditation from GCIS and registration with Foreign Correspondents' Association of Southern Africa (FCASA).
Eligibility
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Nationality
Available to all nationalities
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Purpose of visit
Must be a journalist on assignment exceeding 3 months, confirmed by news agency or broadcaster
Documents you need
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Passport
Blank pages required: 2; Validity months: 1
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Photo
Count: 2; Specifications: Recent passport-size photographs
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Invitation letter
Host requirements: Confirmation letter from foreign news agency or broadcaster detailing assignment duration and purpose
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Visa fee payment
Accepted methods: Payment at VFS Global or embassy; Amount: ZAR 1,520 non-refundable
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Medical fitness
Provide a medical fitness certificate if the destination requires one for this route.
How to apply
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Document gathering
Gather passport, photos, press credentials, confirmation letter from news agency, medical reports (if staying 12+ months), police clearance (if 18+)
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Document submission
Submit application at South African embassy/consulate
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Fee payment
Pay non-refundable application fee of ZAR 1,520
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Processing wait
Wait 8-12 weeks for processing
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Visa collection
Collect long-term journalist visa. Apply for GCIS accreditation and FCASA registration after arrival