Visas & Customs Requirements

General Requirements:

South Africa has the right to decide who may and who may not enter its territory. A visa ensures that you are properly screened before entering the country, and gives immigration officials the information they need to ensure you are admitted to South Africa for the correct purpose and length of time. A visa doesn't guarantee you entry to the country; it only allows you to proceed to a South African port of entry, where an immigration officer will check.

Visa requirements

1. Passport valid for no less than 30 days after the expiry of the intended visit.
2. Passports must contain at least 1 (one) unused page for entry/departure endorsements (sometimes referred to as visa page).
3. Payment of the prescribed fee, if applicable.
4. A vaccination certificate, if required by the Act.
5. Statement and/or documentation confirming purpose and duration of visit.
6. Two (2) identity photographs.
7. Proof of financial means in the form of:
   • bank statements;
   • salary advices;
   • undertaking(s) by the host(s) in the Republic;
   • bursaries;
   • medical cover;
   • or cash available, including credit cards or travelers' checks to cover the living expenses during the sojourn in the Republic.
8. Applicants traveling by air must be in possession of:
   • a return or onward ticket;
   • proof of sufficient funds; or
   • lodge a cash deposit of equivalent value to such a ticket.

Visitor's permits are issued on entry in South Africa and are for visits of 3 months.

If you wish to extend your stay further, you must keep your temporary residence permit valid by applying for an extension at your nearest Department of Home Affairs office in SA. You should do this well before your permit expires.

General Consulates of South Africa:

Los Angeles	http://www.link2southafrica.com
Chicago	http://www.sachicago.pwpsystems.com
New York	http://www.southafrica-newyork.net/consulate
Washington	http://www.saembassy.org