South African South Africa Port of Entry Visa

Who can apply

• Certain non-visa-exempt travellers, per the Department of Home Affairs (details awaiting review)

Requirements

• This route is used by non-visa-exempt travellers who need to re-enter South Africa — for example, an appeal applicant who travels out of the country holding an appeal application receipt and/or confirmation, and who must apply for a port of entry visa to be allowed re-entry into the Republic.
• Eligibility and conditions are specific to the traveller's circumstances and are set by the Department of Home Affairs.
• Confirm the exact requirements and application channel with the Department of Home Affairs before relying on this route.

How to apply

Visa-exempt travellers do not apply in advance. They present a valid passport and supporting documents to an immigration officer at a designated South African port of entry, where a visitor's visa is issued on arrival for the permitted period.

Travellers whose nationality is not visa-exempt must apply before departure at the nearest South African embassy, high commission or consulate (or its appointed visa facilitation centre) in their country of residence, using application form DHA-84 completed and signed in black ink.

Applications must be lodged in person so that biometrics can be captured, and the visa must be collected before travelling to South Africa.

• Confirm whether your nationality is visa-exempt or requires a visa in advance.
• If a visa is required, complete form DHA-84 in black ink.
• Book an appointment at the South African mission or visa facilitation centre in your country of residence.
• Submit the application with supporting documents and pay the prescribed fee.
• Attend in person for biometric capture and collect the visa before you travel.

Documents you may need

• Completed and signed application form (DHA-84) for applications made at a mission.
• A passport valid for no less than 30 days after the intended departure date, with sufficient blank pages.
• A statement or documentation setting out the purpose and intended duration of the visit.
• A valid return or onward air ticket, or proof of a reservation.
• Proof of sufficient financial means to cover the stay (for example bank statements).
• Proof of payment of the applicable visa fee (for advance applications).
• Yellow fever vaccination certificate if arriving from or transiting a yellow-fever risk country.
• For accompanying minors, an unabridged birth certificate and, where relevant, consent from the parent(s).