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.

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

• 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.