Visa requirements

South Africa

General visa requirements for travelling to South Africa. These policies apply to all nationalities unless a country-specific policy exists.

Have a specific passport country? Check your specific route.

Medical visa (Medical Treatment Visa)

Applies to all nationalities · Last updated: 25 June 2026

Embassy required

Maximum stay
180 days
Processing time
8-12 weeks
Fee
ZAR 1,520 (approx. $86 USD) non-refundable application fee
Validity
Issued for no longer than 6 months at a time
Entry
Single entry

A medical treatment visa is issued to foreigners intending to receive medical treatment in South Africa for longer than 3 months. Valid for no longer than 6 months at a time but may be extended if the medical practitioner or doctor validates the extension. Requires proof of sufficient financial resources (minimum ZAR 3,000 per person per month for length of stay).

Eligibility

  • Nationality

    Available to all nationalities

  • Purpose of visit

    Must be seeking medical treatment in South Africa for longer than 3 months

    Includes
    • Medical treatment
  • Health

    Must have medical report on form DHA-811 not older than 6 months confirming need for treatment

    Required vaccinations: Medical report on form DHA-811 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 (recent 3 months) stamped by bank or with verification letter; Minimum amount: ZAR 3,000 per person per month for length of stay

  • Medical certificate

    Provide medical evidence from a recognised doctor or clinic when the route asks for health confirmation.

    Required tests: Medical report on prescribed form DHA-811 (Physical), certificate not older than 6 months at time of application; Validity months: 6

  • Visa fee payment

    Accepted methods: Payment at VFS Global or embassy; Amount: ZAR 1,520 non-refundable

How to apply

  1. Document gathering

    Complete application form DHA-1738. Gather passport, photos, medical report on form DHA-811 (under 6 months), bank statements (recent 3 months stamped), proof of financial means for treatment costs

  2. Document submission

    Submit application to South African embassy/consulate

  3. Fee payment

    Pay non-refundable application fee of ZAR 1,520

  4. Processing wait

    Wait 8-12 weeks for processing

  5. Visa collection

    Collect Medical Treatment Visa valid up to 6 months

Sign in to apply

Tourist visa (Visitor Visa (Tourist) - Embassy Application)

Applies to all nationalities · Last updated: 25 June 2026

Embassy required

Maximum stay
90 days
Processing time
5-10 business days for visitor visas
Fee
Varies by country (many countries exempt from fees)
Validity
90 days
Entry
Single entry

For countries not eligible for visa-free, ETA, or e-Visa entry, a traditional visitor visa must be obtained from a South African embassy or consulate. The visa is valid for tourism or business visits up to 90 days. Many countries are exempt from visa fees. Visas are not issued at South African ports of entry.

Eligibility

  • Nationality

    Available to all nationalities not eligible for visa-free, ETA, or e-Visa entry

Documents you need

  • Passport

    Blank pages required: 2; Validity months: 1

  • Photo

    Count: 2; Specifications: Recent passport-size photographs with white background

  • Proof of funds

    Accepted forms: Bank statements showing at least 3 months history; Minimum amount: Sufficient funds for stay

  • Flight reservation

    Provide flight booking or itinerary evidence when the route asks for travel plans.

    Must be confirmed: Yes; Must show return: Yes

How to apply

  1. Document gathering

    Complete application form DHA-1738, gather passport (valid 1+ months), 2 passport photos, return flight booking, bank statements, and accommodation proof

  2. Document submission

    Submit application in person at South African embassy/consulate or VFS Global center. Provide biometric data if required

  3. Fee payment

    Pay visa fee if applicable (many countries exempt from fees)

  4. Processing wait

    Wait 5-10 business days for processing

  5. Visa collection

    Collect visa from embassy/consulate or VFS center

Sign in to apply

Business visa (Business Visa (Investment/Entrepreneur))

Applies to all nationalities · Last updated: 25 June 2026

Embassy required

Maximum stay
1095 days
Processing time
8-12 weeks
Fee
ZAR 1,520 (approx. $86 USD) non-refundable application fee
Validity
3-5 years, renewable
Entry
Single entry

For those looking to establish or invest in a business in South Africa. A visitor visa can be used for short business trips (conferences, training, consultancy) up to 90 days. The long-term Business Visa requires minimum investment capital of ZAR 5 million (approx. $275,000 USD) or reduced amount with capital waiver. At least 60% of employees must be South African citizens or permanent residents. Valid for 3-5 years. Requires Letter of Recommendation from Department of Trade, Industry and Competition (DTIC).

Eligibility

  • Nationality

    Available to all nationalities

  • Financial

    Must have minimum investment capital of ZAR 5 million or obtain capital waiver

    Minimum funds: ZAR 5,000,000

  • Employment

    Business must employ at least 60% South African citizens or permanent residents. Proof required within 12 months of visa issuance

    Required status: 60% local employment

Documents you need

  • Passport

    Blank pages required: 2; Validity months: 1

  • Photo

    Count: 2; Specifications: Recent passport-size photographs

  • Proof of funds

    Accepted forms: Formal letter from South African registered chartered accountant confirming investment capital; Minimum amount: ZAR 5,000,000 (approx. $275,000 USD) or reduced with capital waiver

  • Travel insurance

    Coverage area: South Africa; Minimum coverage: Valid private medical cover for duration of stay (not travel insurance)

  • Visa fee payment

    Accepted methods: Payment at VFS Global or embassy; Amount: ZAR 1,520 non-refundable

  • Medical fitness

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

How to apply

  1. Document gathering

    Obtain Letter of Recommendation from DTIC. Gather passport, photos, letter from chartered accountant confirming capital, business plan, medical reports (under 6 months), police clearance (if 18+), medical insurance

  2. Document submission

    Submit application to South African embassy/consulate with all documents

  3. Fee payment

    Pay non-refundable application fee of ZAR 1,520

  4. Processing wait

    Wait 8-12 weeks for processing

  5. Visa collection

    Collect Business Visa valid 3-5 years

Sign in to apply

Tourist visa (Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) - China, India, Indonesia, Mexico)

Applies to all nationalities · Last updated: 25 June 2026

e-Visa

Maximum stay
90 days
Processing time
Online processing before travel
Fee
$25 USD (approx.)
Validity
Valid for single entry
Entry
Single entry

As of late November 2025, the ETA requirement was extended to passport holders from Mainland China, India, Indonesia, and Mexico entering South Africa for business or tourism. Travelers must apply for the ETA online before departure. Those who arrive without an ETA will be refused entry. This is part of South Africa's new Electronic Travel Authorization system launched in September 2025.

Eligibility

  • Nationality

    Citizens of China, India, Indonesia, or Mexico traveling for tourism or business

Documents you need

  • Passport

    Blank pages required: 2; Validity months: 1

  • Flight reservation

    Provide flight booking or itinerary evidence when the route asks for travel plans.

    Must be confirmed: Yes; Must show return: Yes

  • Visa fee payment

    Accepted methods: Online payment via ETA portal; Amount: Approximately $25 USD

How to apply

  1. Document gathering

    Gather passport details, return flight booking, accommodation proof

  2. Online application

    Apply for ETA online at https://eta.dha.gov.za/ before departure

  3. Fee payment

    Pay ETA fee of approximately $25 USD online

  4. Processing wait

    Receive ETA approval online

  5. Visa collection

    Present ETA approval and passport at South African immigration

Sign in to apply

Journalist visa (Journalist/Media Visa (Short-term))

Applies to all nationalities · Last updated: 25 June 2026

Embassy required

Maximum stay
90 days
Processing time
5-10 business days
Fee
Varies (or free if eligible for visitor visa work authorization)
Validity
Up to 90 days
Entry
Single entry

Foreigners visiting South Africa for journalism assignments not exceeding 3 months can apply for authorization to conduct work on a visitor's visa in terms of section 11(2) of the Immigration Act. The journalist visa is only required for assignments exceeding 3 months and must be confirmed by the foreign news agency or broadcaster. After receiving the visa, foreign journalists should apply for accreditation by the Directorate for Media Engagement at the Department of Government Communication and Information System (GCIS).

Eligibility

  • Nationality

    Available to all nationalities

  • Purpose of visit

    Must be a journalist, reporter, or media professional visiting for news coverage or media activities. Press credentials recommended

    Includes
    • Journalism
    • news coverage
    • media activities

Documents you need

  • Passport

    Blank pages required: 2; Validity months: 1

  • Photo

    Count: 2; Specifications: Recent passport-size photographs

  • Invitation letter

    Host requirements: Letter from foreign news agency or broadcaster confirming assignment

How to apply

  1. Document gathering

    Gather passport, photos, press credentials, letter from news agency/broadcaster, return flight booking

  2. Document submission

    Submit application at South African embassy/consulate. For short stays (under 3 months), apply for visitor visa with work authorization

  3. Processing wait

    Wait 5-10 business days for processing

  4. Visa collection

    Collect visa. After arrival, apply for accreditation from GCIS Directorate for Media Engagement

Sign in to apply

Transit visa (Transit Visa)

Applies to all nationalities · Last updated: 25 June 2026

Visa free

Maximum stay
1 days
Processing time
Immediate on arrival if transiting through exempt airports
Fee
Free (if applicable) or embassy visa fee
Validity
Transit only
Entry
Single entry

Travelers transiting through OR Tambo International, Cape Town International, King Shaka, or Lanseria (Johannesburg) airports do not require a transit visa but must provide biometrics at the airport. This exemption does not apply to deportees. Foreigners transiting to neighboring countries (Botswana, Lesotho, Mozambique, Namibia, Eswatini, Zimbabwe) must apply for a transit visa in advance. Transit visas are not issued at ports of entry.

Eligibility

  • Nationality

    Available to all nationalities transiting through South Africa

  • Purpose of visit

    Must be in transit to a third destination with confirmed onward ticket

    Includes
    • Transit to onward destination

Documents you need

  • Passport

    Blank pages required: 1; Validity months: 6

  • Flight reservation

    Provide flight booking or itinerary evidence when the route asks for travel plans.

    Must be confirmed: Yes; Must show return: No

How to apply

  1. Document gathering

    Ensure passport is valid for 6+ months. Have confirmed onward flight to third country

  2. Visa collection

    If transiting through OR Tambo, Cape Town, King Shaka, or Lanseria airports, provide biometrics at airport. Otherwise, apply for transit visa at embassy before travel

Sign in to apply

Journalist visa (Journalist/Media Visa (Long-term))

Applies to all nationalities · Last updated: 25 June 2026

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

  • Nationality

    Available to all nationalities

  • Purpose of visit

    Must be a journalist on assignment exceeding 3 months, confirmed by news agency or broadcaster

    Includes
    • Long-term journalism assignment

Documents you need

  • Passport

    Blank pages required: 2; Validity months: 1

  • Photo

    Count: 2; Specifications: Recent passport-size photographs

  • Invitation letter

    Host requirements: Confirmation letter from foreign news agency or broadcaster detailing assignment duration and purpose

  • Visa fee payment

    Accepted methods: Payment at VFS Global or embassy; Amount: ZAR 1,520 non-refundable

  • Medical fitness

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

How to apply

  1. Document gathering

    Gather passport, photos, press credentials, confirmation letter from news agency, medical reports (if staying 12+ months), police clearance (if 18+)

  2. Document submission

    Submit application at South African embassy/consulate

  3. Fee payment

    Pay non-refundable application fee of ZAR 1,520

  4. Processing wait

    Wait 8-12 weeks for processing

  5. Visa collection

    Collect long-term journalist visa. Apply for GCIS accreditation and FCASA registration after arrival

Sign in to apply

Tourist visa (Visa Free Entry (90 days))

Applies to all nationalities · Last updated: 25 June 2026

Visa free

Maximum stay
90 days
Processing time
Immediate on arrival
Fee
Free
Validity
90 days
Entry
Multiple entry

Citizens of these countries do not require a visa for stays up to 90 days for tourism or business purposes. Some countries have specific restrictions (e.g., Chile, Panama, Trinidad & Tobago require ordinary passports only). Tanzania passport holders: 90 days per year. Passport must be valid for 30 days beyond departure date and contain at least 2 blank pages.

Eligibility

  • Nationality

    Must hold an ordinary passport from one of the listed visa-exempt countries

Documents you need

  • Passport

    Blank pages required: 2; Validity months: 1

How to apply

  1. Document gathering

    Ensure passport is valid for at least 30 days beyond departure with 2 blank pages. Have proof of return ticket and accommodation if requested

  2. Visa collection

    Present passport at South African port of entry for visa-free entry stamp

Sign in to apply

Tourist visa (SADC Visa Free Entry)

Applies to all nationalities · Last updated: 25 June 2026

Visa free

Maximum stay
90 days
Processing time
Immediate on arrival
Fee
Free
Validity
90 days
Entry
Multiple entry

Citizens of SADC countries Botswana, Lesotho, Mozambique, Namibia, Eswatini (Swaziland), and Zimbabwe do not require a visa for visits up to 90 days. Passport must be valid for 1 month after departure date.

Eligibility

  • Nationality

    Must be a citizen of Botswana, Lesotho, Mozambique, Namibia, Eswatini, or Zimbabwe

Documents you need

  • Passport

    Blank pages required: 1; Validity months: 1

How to apply

  1. Document gathering

    Ensure passport is valid for at least 1 month after departure

  2. Visa collection

    Present passport at South African immigration for visa-free entry

Sign in to apply

Diplomatic visa (Diplomatic/Official Passport Exemption)

Applies to all nationalities · Last updated: 25 June 2026

Visa free

Maximum stay
90 days
Processing time
Immediate on arrival
Fee
Free
Validity
90 days
Entry
Multiple entry

Citizens who are holders of diplomatic, official, or service passports of certain countries do not require visas for visits up to 90 days (unless otherwise noted). All passports must be valid longer than 6 months. For specific countries with bilateral agreements, consult the Department of International Relations and Cooperation (DIRCO) visa requirements list.

Eligibility

  • Nationality

    Must hold diplomatic, official, or service passport from a country with bilateral visa exemption agreement with South Africa

Documents you need

  • Passport

    Blank pages required: 1; Validity months: 6

How to apply

  1. Document gathering

    Carry valid diplomatic or official passport with at least 6 months validity

  2. Visa collection

    Present diplomatic/official passport at South African immigration for visa-free entry

Sign in to apply

Work / Immigration visa (General Work Visa)

Applies to all nationalities · Last updated: 25 June 2026

Embassy required

Maximum stay
730 days
Processing time
8-12 weeks
Fee
ZAR 1,520 (approx. $86 USD) non-refundable application fee
Validity
Up to 2 years, renewable
Entry
Single entry

The General Work Visa is for applicants with a confirmed job offer in roles not on the Critical Skills List. Must score at least 100 points under a points-based system including educational qualifications, salary level, years of experience, language skills, and employer status. Processing typically takes 4-12 weeks.

Eligibility

  • Nationality

    Available to all nationalities

  • Employment

    Must have a confirmed job offer from a South African employer. Employer must demonstrate efforts to recruit locally

    Required status: Confirmed job offer

  • Financial

    Must score at least 100 points. Points awarded for salary (above ZAR 650,976/year), education, experience, language skills, and employer status

    Minimum funds: ZAR 650,976/year recommended

Documents you need

  • Passport

    Blank pages required: 2; Validity months: 1

  • Photo

    Count: 2; Specifications: Recent passport-size photographs

  • Employment letter

    Provide a signed employer letter confirming your role, leave dates, salary and return to work.

    Must include leave approval: No; Must include position: Yes; Must include salary: Yes

  • Visa fee payment

    Accepted methods: Payment at VFS Global or embassy; Amount: ZAR 1,520 non-refundable

  • Medical fitness

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

How to apply

  1. Document gathering

    Obtain job offer letter. Gather passport, photos, educational certificates, employment contract, proof of salary, medical reports (under 6 months), police clearance (if 18+)

  2. Document submission

    Submit application to South African embassy/consulate with all documents

  3. Fee payment

    Pay non-refundable application fee of ZAR 1,520

  4. Processing wait

    Wait 8-12 weeks for processing

  5. Visa collection

    Collect General Work Visa valid up to 2 years

Sign in to apply

Work / Immigration visa (Critical Skills Work Visa)

Applies to all nationalities · Last updated: 25 June 2026

Embassy required

Maximum stay
1825 days
Processing time
8-12 weeks
Fee
ZAR 1,520 (approx. $86 USD) non-refundable application fee
Validity
Up to 5 years, renewable
Entry
Single entry

The Critical Skills Work Visa is for highly skilled foreign professionals in occupations where local expertise is in short supply (engineering, IT, healthcare, finance, education). Applicants can apply even without a job offer if qualifications match an occupation on the official Critical Skills List. Valid up to 5 years and allows working for any employer in the field. Applicants must score at least 100 points under a points-based system. Processing typically takes 4-12 weeks.

Eligibility

  • Nationality

    Available to all nationalities

  • Employment

    Occupation must be listed on South Africa's official Critical Skills List. Must score at least 100 points (occupation on list automatically grants 100 points)

    Required status: Occupation on Critical Skills List

  • Financial

    Points awarded for salaries above ZAR 650,976/year, with maximum points for salaries above ZAR 976,194

    Minimum funds: ZAR 650,976/year recommended

Documents you need

  • Passport

    Blank pages required: 2; Validity months: 1

  • Photo

    Count: 2; Specifications: Recent passport-size photographs

  • Employment letter

    Provide a signed employer letter confirming your role, leave dates, salary and return to work.

    Must include leave approval: No; Must include position: Yes; Must include salary: No

  • Visa fee payment

    Accepted methods: Payment at VFS Global or embassy; Amount: ZAR 1,520 non-refundable

  • Medical fitness

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

How to apply

  1. Document gathering

    Verify occupation is on Critical Skills List. Gather passport, photos, educational certificates, professional qualifications, medical reports (under 6 months), police clearance (if 18+)

  2. Document submission

    Submit application to South African embassy/consulate with all supporting documents

  3. Fee payment

    Pay non-refundable application fee of ZAR 1,520

  4. Processing wait

    Wait 8-12 weeks for processing

  5. Visa collection

    Collect Critical Skills Work Visa valid up to 5 years

Sign in to apply

Student visa (Student Visa (Study Permit))

Applies to all nationalities · Last updated: 25 June 2026

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

Sign in to apply

Tourist visa (E-Visa (Tourist/Visitor))

Applies to all nationalities · Last updated: 25 June 2026

e-Visa

Maximum stay
90 days
Processing time
5-10 business days
Fee
Free (for eligible countries)
Validity
Multiple entry, 90 days per entry
Entry
Multiple entry

South Africa launched its e-Visa system in February 2022 for select nationalities. Eligible citizens can apply online for a visitor visa without visiting an embassy. The e-Visa is a multiple entry visa valid for stays of up to 90 days per entry. Several eligible countries are exempt from visa fees (e.g., India, Colombia, Mexico).

Eligibility

  • Nationality

    Must be a citizen of one of the eligible e-Visa countries listed

Documents you need

  • Passport

    Blank pages required: 2; Validity months: 1

  • Photo

    Count: 1; Specifications: Recent passport-size photograph

  • Proof of funds

    Accepted forms: Bank statements; Minimum amount: Sufficient funds for stay

  • Flight reservation

    Provide flight booking or itinerary evidence when the route asks for travel plans.

    Must be confirmed: Yes; Must show return: Yes

  • Visa fee payment

    Accepted methods: Online payment via e-Visa portal; Amount: Free for listed countries; others may pay fees

How to apply

  1. Document gathering

    Gather passport copy, passport photo, return flight booking, and bank statements

  2. Online application

    Apply online at https://ehome.dha.gov.za/epermit/home

  3. Fee payment

    Pay visa fee if applicable (free for many countries)

  4. Processing wait

    Wait 5-10 business days for visa processing

  5. Visa collection

    Receive e-Visa via email. Print and present at immigration

Sign in to apply

Diplomatic visa (Diplomatic Mission Visa)

Applies to all nationalities · Last updated: 25 June 2026

Embassy required

Maximum stay
90 days
Processing time
5-10 business days through diplomatic channels
Fee
Varies (typically free for diplomatic purposes)
Validity
As specified in diplomatic note
Entry
Multiple entry

For diplomatic and official passport holders from countries without bilateral visa exemption agreements, visas must be obtained through diplomatic channels. This applies to personnel posted to diplomatic missions, consular officers, and official delegations.

Eligibility

  • Nationality

    For diplomatic and official passport holders from countries without bilateral exemption agreements

  • Purpose of visit

    Must be traveling on official government or diplomatic business

    Includes
    • Official government or diplomatic business

Documents you need

  • Passport

    Blank pages required: 2; Validity months: 6

How to apply

  1. Document gathering

    Prepare diplomatic/official passport, diplomatic note from sending country, supporting documentation

  2. Document submission

    Submit application through diplomatic channels to South African Ministry of International Relations and Cooperation

  3. Processing wait

    Wait 5-10 business days for processing

  4. Visa collection

    Collect visa through South African embassy/consulate in your country

Sign in to apply

Tourist visa (Nigeria Visa Free Entry (90 days))

Applies to all nationalities · Last updated: 25 June 2026

Visa free

Maximum stay
90 days
Processing time
Immediate on arrival
Fee
Free
Validity
90 days
Entry
Multiple entry

As of December 2024, South Africa granted Nigerian citizens visa-free entry for stays of up to 90 days. This is a recent policy change. Entry requirements include valid passport, proof of funds, return ticket, and accommodation details.

Eligibility

  • Nationality

    Must be a Nigerian citizen with valid passport

Documents you need

  • Passport

    Blank pages required: 2; Validity months: 6

  • Proof of funds

    Accepted forms: Bank statements, cash, credit cards; Minimum amount: Sufficient funds for stay

How to apply

  1. Document gathering

    Ensure passport is valid for 6+ months with 2 blank pages. Prepare proof of funds, return ticket, and accommodation proof

  2. Visa collection

    Present documents at South African immigration for visa-free entry

Sign in to apply

Work / Immigration visa (Intra-Company Transfer Work Visa)

Applies to all nationalities · Last updated: 25 June 2026

Embassy required

Maximum stay
730 days
Processing time
8-12 weeks
Fee
ZAR 1,520 (approx. $86 USD) non-refundable application fee
Validity
Up to 2 years, renewable
Entry
Single entry

The Intra-Company Transfer Work Visa is for employees relocating to a South African office within the same company. Typically valid for up to 2 years. Processing takes 4-12 weeks.

Eligibility

  • Nationality

    Available to all nationalities

  • Employment

    Must be employed by a multinational company with offices in South Africa and be transferring to the South African branch

    Required status: Intra-company transfer

Documents you need

  • Passport

    Blank pages required: 2; Validity months: 1

  • Photo

    Count: 2; Specifications: Recent passport-size photographs

  • Employment letter

    Provide a signed employer letter confirming your role, leave dates, salary and return to work.

    Must include leave approval: No; Must include position: Yes; Must include salary: Yes

  • Visa fee payment

    Accepted methods: Payment at VFS Global or embassy; Amount: ZAR 1,520 non-refundable

  • Medical fitness

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

How to apply

  1. Document gathering

    Obtain transfer letter from employer. Gather passport, photos, proof of current employment, transfer documentation, medical reports (under 6 months), police clearance (if 18+)

  2. Document submission

    Submit application to South African embassy/consulate

  3. Fee payment

    Pay non-refundable application fee of ZAR 1,520

  4. Processing wait

    Wait 8-12 weeks for processing

  5. Visa collection

    Collect Intra-Company Transfer Visa valid up to 2 years

Sign in to apply
This information is provided for general guidance only. Visa requirements can change frequently and may vary by nationality. Always verify with the official embassy or consulate before making travel plans. Contact [email protected] for assistance.