South Africa Guide: Visas & Permits
Which documents do you need when going to South Africa? What are the regulations on visas and residence permits? Our legal guide will help you understand the paperwork you need to complete before moving to South Africa.-
Visas What papers are needed to come to South Africa?
Not every foreigner needs to get a visa (visitor's permit) to travel to South Africa. As this information is constantly changing, contact a nearby South African Consulate, Embassy or Mission to find out if you will need one. more » -
Visa applications How to apply for a visa
Visas are not issued at South African ports of entry and airline officials are obliged to insist on seeing visas before allowing passengers to board the aircraft. more » -
Visitor's Visas How to obtain a visitor's visa
In South Africa, a visa is considered to be a visitor's permit. You must apply for the correct visa/permit in the country, as it may be refused if the purpose of the visit is not correctly stated. more » -
Residence Who can become a resident in South Africa?
South Africa’s immigration requirements are subject to change and each application is treated individually, so the following information should be treated only as a guide. more » -
Permanent Residence How to stay permanently in South Africa
To grant Permanent Residency Permits, the Department of Home Affairs favours those who are in position to make a meaningful contribution to broadening the South African economic base. Foreigners can apply for a Direct Residency Permit, or a Residency-on-Other-Grounds Permit. more » -
Work permits Who needs them?
Someone intending to visit South Africa for business purposes, and staying in the country for less than 90 days, needs to apply for a Visitor's Visa (Visitor's Permit). On the other hand, someone who will be spending more than 90 days in the country for the same purposes must apply for the corresponding Work Permit. more » -
Student and Exchange Permits Who needs them?
Student and Exchange Permits are issued to those who intend to attend a higher education programme or exchange programmes. more » -
Retired Persons and Medical Permits Who can apply?
Retired Persons and Medical Permits applications must be made at the local Department of Home Affairs office or the nearest South African Embassy, Mission or Consulate. more »