About applying for a transit visa

If you are a foreigner and want to travel through South Africa to a neighbouring country, you must apply for a transit visa. The visa is issued for a maximum of 72 hours.  

If you commit an offence or fail to produce a transit visa while travelling through South Africa, you will be prosecuted.

If you are from a Visa-exempt country, you don’t have to apply for a transit visa.

What you should do

• Go to South African Foreign representative.
• Complete form BI-84.
• Bring  the following:
• passport valid for no less than 30 days after expiry of intended visit
• identity document
• vaccination certificate (if applicable)
• onward air or sea transport ticket
• proof that you will be admitted  to your destination 
• onward return ticket
• if a child is  going to accompany you, you must bring:
• an unabridged birth certificate
• proof of adoption, if applicable
• proof of guardianship and custody, if applicable
• consent from the guardian in the case of an unaccompanied minor.
  

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

R 425

Forms to complete

Application for a visa or transit visa, BI-84

Who to contact

Department of Home Affairs