South Africa Visa: Entry requirements and travel information for South Africa

Exploring the wonders of South Africa? Determine if a visa is required, identify the correct type, and learn the application process to ensure your journey is seamless.

What's a South African eVisa, and who's it for?

Who's the South Africa eVisa for?

The South Africa eVisa is designed for eligible nationals from Albania, Algeria, Belarus, and more. If you plan to visit South Africa for tourism or short business trips, you can streamline your visa application process online through the South Africa eVisa.

Who isn't eligible for the South Africa eVisa?

Citizens from non-eligible countries or those visiting for non-tourism/business purposes aren't eligible for the eVisa.

What's the purpose of the South Africa eVisa?
It facilitates short-term visits for tourism or business activities and is valid for up to 90 days.

Learn more about the South African eVisa.

What's a South Africa Traveller Declaration, and who's it for?

Who needs a South Africa Traveller Declaration?

It's mandatory for all travelers, including South Africans, entering or exiting the country to declare purchases, gifts, or significant amounts of cash.

What's the purpose of the Traveller Declaration?
To enhance border crossing efficiency and ensure lawful goods movement.

Duration of use?

This single-entry document is required for each entry or exit.

Learn more about the South Africa Traveller Declaration.

What's a South Africa Tourist Visa, and who's it for?

Who's the South Africa Tourist Visa for?

This visa is intended for travelers from non-visa-exempt countries who want to visit South Africa for leisure or tourism.

Who cannot apply for a South Africa Tourist Visa?
Individuals aiming to work, study, or stay longer than the visa permits and nationals from visa-exempt countries.

What's the purpose of a South Africa Tourist Visa?
The South Africa Tourist Visa aims to facilitate tourism, sightseeing, visiting friends or family, or engaging in short recreational courses. The validity typically extends up to 90 days, depending on nationality.

South Africa's long-term visa options

South Africa offers various visa options catering to different needs, whether you're planning to work, study, invest, or retire. Below are the key long-term visas available:

• Medical Treatment Visa: Provides short-term medical care for up to 3 months.

• Entertainment Industry Visas: Designed for artists/entertainers working up to 6 months.

• Business Visa: Allows you to start/invest in a South African business.

• Work Visa (General): Valid for employment in South Africa for up to 5 years.

• Critical Skills Work Visa: Intended for individuals with critical skills, valid for up to 5 years.

• Intra-company Transfer Work Visa: Facilitates multinational multinational company transfers, up to 4 years.

• Corporate Visas: Allows companies to employ foreign workers for up to 3 years.

• Study Visas: Available for students at South African institutions; validity varies.

• Exchange Visas: Geared toward individuals under 25 participating in exchange programs, valid for up to 12 months.

• Retired Persons' Visa: For retirees with sufficient financial means; duration varies.

• Relatives' Visa: Allows family members of South African citizens or residents to stay for up to 2 years.

• Extended Medical Treatment Visa: Designed for longer medical treatments, valid for up to 6 months.

Note: At iVisa, we currently don't offer these visas. Please consult your nearest South African embassy or consulate for detailed requirements and application processes.

Staying healthy in South Africa: Essential health tips for travelers

Vaccinations and COVID-19 Requirements

• Vaccinations: South Africa generally doesn't mandate travel vaccinations. However, a Yellow Fever vaccination certificate is necessary if coming from certain countries listed by the World Health Organization.

• COVID-19: Stay updated with the latest requirements by checking the South African government website.

Medical facilities

• South Africa boasts high-quality healthcare services, especially in private hospitals.

• Emergency Numbers: For emergencies, dial 112 from any cell phone. For medical emergencies and ambulance services, call 10177.

Health Insurance

• Secure comprehensive travel health insurance to cover potential medical expenses, ensuring a worry-free exploration of South Africa.

Local Hazards

• Sun protection: Use sunscreen, wear protective clothing, and sunglasses to shield yourself from the sun.

• Outdoor safety: Adhere to wildlife laws and park regulations, and be cautious of rip tides and sharks while swimming.

• Wildlife precautions: Don't feed or approach wildlife, especially baboons, to avoid aggressive encounters.

Medication

• Declare medications: Always declare controlled or prescription medications upon arrival.

• Packaging and documentation: Keep medicines in original packaging with labels and carry a prescription or doctor's letter.

• Quantity and restrictions: Bring only the amount needed for your stay, and verify the legality of medications by contacting the nearest South African embassy.

By familiarizing yourself with these health precautions and requirements, you can ensure a safe and enjoyable visit to South Africa's diverse landscapes and cultural heritage.