South African short stay visitors' visas are for individuals whose permanent residence is outside South Africa wishing to enter the country for 90 days or less.
While the default visitor's visa is valid 90 days, an extension of up to a maximum of three months can be applied for from within South Africa.
Who can apply?
Any foreign national of a country requiring a visa to enter South Africa can apply for a visitor’s visa. These may be granted for the following purposes:
Visits to family or friends;
Tourism;
Business or conferences;
Study (max. 3 months) or research
Joining a spouse who has a work or study permit in South Africa;
Dependent children joining parents who have work or study permits in South Africa;
Intent to marry (within 90 days);
Charitable or voluntary activities;
Entertainment industry purposes;
Medical purposes (max. 3 months);
Sporting events.
How to apply
In order to apply for a short stay visitor’s visa you will be required to provide the following: documentation:
A passport or travel document valid for no less than 30 days after the expiry of your intended visit;
Your passport must have at least TWO unused page for entry / departure endorsements;
A yellow-fever vaccination certificate (if required);
Statement and/or documentation confirming the purpose and duration of your visit;
Two colour passport photographs;
A return or onward ticket if you are travelling by air.
If you have children (minors) travelling with you or joining in South Africa, you will need to provide the following additional documentation:
Proof of guardianship or custody or consent from the guardian in the case of an unaccompanied minor;
Proof of financial means to pay for your living expenses while in South Africa in the form of: Bank statements, salary advances, undertakings by the host(s) in South Africa, bursary, medical cover, cash available (including credit cards and travellers’ cheques);
The information in this article was submitted byLe Roux Attorneys Inc., specialists in South African immigration.
