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.

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

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

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.