Visa length

  • Tourist Visa (Visitor’s Visa): Allows stays of up to 90 days for tourism or business purposes.
  • Temporary Residence Visa: Typically valid for 1 to 5 years, depending on the visa type (e.g., work, study, retirement, business).
  • Permanent Residence Permit: Grants indefinite stay, subject to renewal for administrative purposes.

Visa cost

  • Tourist Visa: Costs approximately $40.
  • Temporary Residence Visa: Fees range from $80 to $150, depending on the specific visa type.
  • Permanent Residence Permit: Costs approximately $170.

Visa extension

  • Tourist Visa: Can be extended once for an additional 90 days.
  • Temporary Residence Visa: Renewable based on continued eligibility.
  • Permanent Residence Permit: No need for renewal, but updates may be required for administrative purposes.

Visa processing time

  • Tourist Visa: Processing takes approximately 10 to 15 business days.
  • Temporary Residence Visa: Processing can take 8 to 12 weeks.
  • Permanent Residence Permit: Processing can take 8 months to 2 years.

Who can apply?

  • Tourist Visa: Citizens of countries that require a visa for short-term visits to South Africa.
  • Temporary Residence Visa: Individuals seeking to stay for work, study, business, or retirement.
  • Permanent Residence Permit: Those eligible under permanent residency criteria, such as long-term work visa holders, retirees, or family reunification.

Where to apply?

Applications must be submitted at South African embassies, consulates, or Visa Application Centers (VFS Global).

How to apply:

  1. Complete the visa or residence permit application form.
  2. Gather required documents (passport, photos, financial proof, medical insurance, police clearance, employment/study contract, etc.).
  3. Pay the application fee.
  4. Schedule and attend an interview if required.
  5. Await processing and receive a decision.

Minimum income requirements

  • Tourist visas do not have specific financial requirements.
  • Temporary Residence Visa: Applicants must prove financial self-sufficiency; for retirement visas, a monthly income of at least $2,500 is required.
  • Permanent Residence Permit: Requires proof of stable income and long-term residency eligibility.

Popular cities

  • Cape Town – Known for its natural beauty, Table Mountain, and vibrant culture.
  • Johannesburg – South Africa’s largest city and economic hub.
  • Durban – A coastal city famous for its beaches and Indian-influenced cuisine.
  • Pretoria – The administrative capital with significant government institutions.
  • Port Elizabeth – A major port city with beautiful coastlines.

Minimum income requirements

  • South Africa has 11 official languages, including English, Zulu, Xhosa, and Afrikaans.
  • English is widely spoken in business and tourism sectors.

Average internet speeds

  • Fixed broadband: Average download speed of approximately 65 Mbps.
  • Mobile internet: Average download speed of around 40 Mbps.