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South Africa Visa for Indians: The Ultimate Application Guide

Last Update: 10-12-2024

South Africa Visa for Indians

Quick Summary

Is a visa required for South Africa?

Yes, Indian citizens require a visa to travel to South Africa, whether for tourism or business.

Processing time

  • Short-term visas - 5 to 15 working days
  • Long-term visas - 30 to 60 working days

Fees

  • Short-Term Visa: ₹2207
  • Long-Term Visa: ₹7892

Validity

90 days

How to apply for South Africa visa?

  • Apply through Teleport in minutes.
  • Apply through VFS Global visa application centres in India

Documents Required

  1. A passport or travel document 
  2. Documentation confirming the purpose and duration of your visit
  3. A return or onward ticket.
  4. Financial proof
  5. Check other supporting documents.

Planning a trip to South Africa? From the lively streets of Cape Town to the stunning wildlife in Kruger National Park, obtaining a South Africa visa for Indians is essential. This guide will walk you through the entire process—explaining the different types of visas, required documentation, fees, and steps to apply. By the end, you’ll have all the information needed to navigate the visa application process smoothly and enjoy your South African adventure. Whether you’re traveling for study, work, or leisure, knowing the requirements will make your journey hassle-free.

Table of Contents


  1. Do Indians Need a Visa for South Africa?
  2. Types of South African Visas
  3. South Africa Visa Requirements
  4. South Africa Visa Application Online from India
  5. South Africa Visa Fees
  6. South Africa Visa Processing Time
  7. High Commission and Consulate of South Africa in India
  8. FAQs

Do Indians Need a Visa for South Africa?

Yes, Indians need a visa to travel to South Africa. The South African government requires Indian citizens to obtain a visa before entering the country, whether for tourism, business, study, or work purposes. This visa can be applied for through the South African Embassy or Consulate in India. It's important to check the specific visa requirements, processing times, and documents needed for your particular type of visit to ensure a smooth application process.

Types of South African Visas

  1. Short-term Tourist Visa: For leisure activities like vacations and sightseeing. Permits a stay of up to 90 days.
  2. Short-term Medical Visa: Granted for medical treatment in South Africa for up to three months.
  3. Short-term Business Visa: For attending meetings, conferences, and trade fairs. Permits a stay of up to 90 days.
  4. Transit Visa: Allows passage through South Africa for up to 72 hours with no intention of staying.
  5. Long-term Medical Visa: Issued for medical treatment for up to six months. Requires a completed BI-1738 form, passport, payment of fees, and proof of financial resources.
  6. Long-term Business Visa: For investment or establishment of business in South Africa. Requires meeting financial capital criteria and employing at least 60% South African citizens or permanent residents.
  7. Study Visa: For higher education and training in South Africa, valid for the duration of the course, up to four years.
  8. Relative Visa: For immediate family members of South African citizens or permanent residents. Requires financial guarantees and recent documents.
  9. TRV General Work Visas: Valid throughout the duration of the employment contract, up to a maximum of five years.

South Africa Visa Requirements

Following are the documents required for a South Africa visa application:

  1. Visa Application Form: Completed, dated, and signed by the applicant.
  2. Valid Passport: Must be valid for at least 30 days beyond the intended departure date. Must have at least 1 blank page.
  3. Aadhar Card: Original and photocopy.
  4. Colour Photograph: White background, dimensions 35mm x 45mm, taken in the last 6 months.
  5. Medical Report: Issued by a registered medical practitioner within the last 6 months, detailing the applicant's general state of health. Yellow fever certificates required if traveling through the yellow fever belt.
  6. Flight Reservation: Roundtrip flight reservation.
  7. Bank Statement: Proof of sufficient financial means with certified bank statements for the last three months. Minimum INR 30,000 balance required per applicant.

South Africa Visa Application Online from India

Apply for South Africa Visa with Teleport

Getting your South Africa visa for Indians is now simple and stress-free with Teleport. Just follow these steps:

  1. Start Your Application: Visit Teleport’s South Africa visa application website and click on ‘Start your Application’.
  2. Fill in Your Details and Pay: Provide your travel and passport information, then complete your visa payment via Teleport. Optionally, make a partial payment upfront.
  3. Prepare and Review Documents: Upload your documents to Teleport. A dedicated relationship manager will review and organize all necessary paperwork for your South Africa tourist visa application.
  4. Appointment Booking: Teleport’s relationship manager will arrange an appointment at the nearest VFS Appointment Centre based on your preferred location and time.
  5. Visit the VFS Centre: Attend your appointment at the VFS Visa Application Centre to submit your biometrics and required documents. The VFS Centre will forward your documents to the consulate for processing. Once a decision is made, your documents will be sent back to VFS.
Get Expert Guidance throughout your South Africa Visa Process only with Teleport.
Learn More!

Apply for South Africa visa through VFS Global

Here is a step-by-step guide outlining the process of applying for a short-term South Africa visa for Indian nationals through VFS Global:

  1. Identify your Visa Type: Determine the specific visa category that matches your purpose, verify your eligibility, and understand the required documentation, processing times, and fees. Arrange translations if necessary.
  2. Fill out Your Visa Application Form: Download and complete the visa application form. Print it and bring it along with the necessary documents to the Visa Application Centre for submission.
  3. Book an Appointment with VFS Global: You can submit your application at the visa application centre without needing a prior appointment.
  4. Pay Your Fees: After submitting your application, pay the visa application fee at the Visa Application Centre. Fees can be paid in cash or by card.
  5. Visit a Visa Application Centre: Submit your completed visa application form in person at the Visa Application Centre. Familiarize yourself with the procedures and requirements before your visit.
  6. Track Your Application: Receive email notifications when your passport and visa are returned to the Visa Application Centre. Optionally, receive SMS updates and monitor status online using the Reference Number from the invoice or receipt.
  7. Collect Your Passport: Receive your passport in person from the Visa Application Centre or have it delivered via courier for an additional charge.

South Africa Visa Fees

Short - Term Visa Fees: For short-term visas, there is no South Africa visa fee for Indian applicants. However, the VFS service fee varies by location, with INR 2040 charged in Delhi and Mumbai, and INR 2301 in other cities like Gurgaon, Jaipur, Kolkata, Ahmedabad, Pune, Goa, and Bangalore.

VFS Service Fees:

LocationFees (INR)

Delhi

₹2040

Gurgaon

₹2301

Jaipur

₹2301

Kolkata

₹2301

Mumbai

₹2040

Ahmedabad

₹2301

Pune

₹2301

Goa

₹2301

Bangalore

₹2301

Long - Term Visa Fees:

Visa TypeFees (INR)

Study Visa

₹2207

Treaty Visa

₹2207

Medical Treatment Visa

₹2207

Relatives Visa

₹2207

Business Visa

₹7892

General work Visa

₹7892

Critical Skills Visa

₹7892

Intra-company transfer work Visa

₹7892

Exchange Visa

₹2207

South Africa Visa Processing Time

Generally the South Africa Visa processing time for Indians is typically around 5 to 15 working days for a short-term visa type. The long-term visa for South Africa takes a processing time of around 30 to 60 working days from the day of submission at Visa Application centres.


When applying for a Short-term South Africa visa from India, processing times can vary based on the location of the Visa Application Centre. In Delhi, the processing time is typically a minimum of 5 working days. For those applying in Gurgaon and Jaipur, the processing time extends to a minimum of 7 working days. Applicants in Kolkata also face a minimum of 7 working days. In other cities such as Mumbai, Ahmedabad, Pune, Goa, and Bangalore, the processing time ranges from 10 to 15 working days. It is advisable to apply well in advance of your intended travel date to accommodate these processing times.

Note

Processing times may vary and are subject to change at the discretion of the South African High Commission.

High Commission and Consulate of South Africa in India

LocationAddressContact Details

High Commission of South Africa in New Delhi

B18, Vasant Marg, Vasant Vihar, New Delhi, Delhi 110057

+91 11 2 614 9411 +91 11 2 614 9412 +91 11 2 614 9413 +91 11 2 614 9414

Consulate General of South Africa in Mumbai

20 Altamount Road, Cumballa Hill, Mumbai, Maharashtra 400026

022 2351 3725

Conclusion

Navigating the South Africa visa requirements from India can seem daunting, but with the right information, the process can be straightforward and stress-free. From identifying the right type of visa to gathering all necessary documents and understanding the South Africa visa fees for Indian applicants, this guide provides a clear roadmap for your application journey. 


Remember, whether you're applying for a South Africa tourist visa for Indian nationals or a long-term visa, preparation is key. Make sure to follow all guidelines closely to avoid any potential pitfalls.. With thorough preparation and a clear understanding of the process, you can look forward to an incredible experience in South Africa.


Safe travels!

FAQs

How long does it take for Indians to get a visa to South Africa?

It typically takes a minimum of 5 to 10 working days to process a South African visas from the day of application submission at the Visa Application Centre. Processing time may vary based on the South African High Commission's discretion.

How much does a South Africa visa cost for Indians?

The South Africa visa fees for Indians vary based on the type of visa: Short-term visa for SOuth Africa is free of charge although a VFS service fee of INR 2,207 is applicable, while Long-term visas cost INR 7,892 with an additional VFS service fee.

Can Indians apply for a South African eVisa?

No, there isn't an e-Visa option available for Indian citizens travelling to South Africa. You need to apply for a traditional visa through the South African Department of Home Affairs.

What are the basic requirements for a South Africa visa for Indians?

The South Africa visa requirements from India include a completed visa application form, a valid passport with at least one blank page, a recent photograph, proof of financial means, and documentation confirming the purpose and duration of your visit.

Is there a visa on arrival for South Africa for Indian citizens?

No, there is no visa on arrival option for Indian citizens visiting South Africa. All travellers must obtain a visa before departure through the South African Department of Home Affairs.

How much bank balance is required for a South Africa tourist visa?

To apply for a South African visa, you must demonstrate sufficient funds to support your stay in the country. The required minimum amount is INR 30,000 per applicant. It's essential that your funds are readily accessible and your financial transaction history is consistent.

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