About applying for an official visa

If you are a foreigner visiting South Africa for official purposes, you must apply for an official visa.

Note: You must have an official passport to qualify for an official visa.

What you should do

• Go to South African Foreign Offices.
• Complete form BI-84.
• Bring the following:
• valid passport 
• identity document
• statement and/or documentation confirming the purpose and duration of the visit
• yellow fever vaccination certificate, if required.
  

Note: Visas are not issued on arrival at a port of entry and you will be refused admission if you cannot produce it. You can only be excused from producing a visa if your country is exempted from visa control. To check if your country is exempted, please click here.

Note: The immigration act requires you to enter South Africa on a temporary residence permit commensurate with the intended activity to be taken in the country.

Timeframe

It might take five to ten working days to process your application.

How much does it cost

The service is free.

Forms to complete

Application for a visa, BI-84

Who to contact

Department of Home Affairs