Quick Answer: South Africa Visa Fees and Processing Time
Visa fees and processing times are set by the Department of Home Affairs, differ by category and nationality, and are revised. For that reason this page explains how they work rather than quoting figures that would go out of date.
The two things worth understanding: fees are normally payable whether or not the application succeeds, and published processing times are estimates rather than commitments. Requirements.co.za is an independent information website. It is not a visa agency, embassy, application centre or government department, and it cannot lodge, check or decide an application.
Who This Requirement Applies To
This guide is for applicants budgeting for a South African visa application and planning around timelines.
For the categories, see South Africa Visa Requirements.
Eligibility Requirements
Several separate costs and time factors combine, and people commonly account for only the visa fee.
Applicant type
- The visa fee. Set by category and nationality, payable on application.
- Service fees. Where an application centre is used, a separate service fee may apply.
- Supporting document costs. Police clearance, medical reports and certified translations each carry their own cost.
- Appointment lead time. Often the longest element, and it precedes processing rather than overlapping it.
- Processing time. Runs from submission and varies by category, office and season.
Documents You May Need
Keep evidence of everything you pay, since proof of payment is normally required at submission.
Required proof
- Proof of payment of the visa fee.
- Receipt for any service fee.
- Tracking or reference number for following the application.
Steps to Apply or Prepare
Confirm the current fee for your category and nationality with Home Affairs or the official centre before budgeting.
Add appointment lead time to processing time when planning, since they are sequential.
Avoid booking non-refundable travel until the outcome is known.
Costs, Processing Times and Validity
Fees are normally non-refundable if an application is refused, so treat the cost as spent at submission. Processing times are estimates and can extend in peak periods. Confirm both officially rather than relying on figures published elsewhere, including previously published ones.
Common Mistakes and Delays
Common mistake
- Budgeting only for the visa fee and not the supporting documents.
- Treating a published processing time as a guarantee.
- Booking non-refundable flights against an estimated timeline.
- Assuming a refused application refunds the fee.
- Relying on a fee figure from a third-party site or an earlier year.
Where to Confirm Official Requirements
Confirm the current form, specification, fees and appointment process with the Department of Home Affairs or its appointed visa application centre. Requirements differ by nationality and change without notice. The Official Requirements Sources South Africa page links to the responsible bodies.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does a South African visa cost?
Fees are set by category and nationality and are revised. Confirm the current fee with the Department of Home Affairs or the official application centre.
How long does processing take?
Times vary by category, office and season, and published times are estimates rather than guarantees. Confirm the current expectation officially.
Is the fee refunded if I am refused?
Fees are normally non-refundable regardless of the outcome. Treat the cost as spent at submission.
What else should I budget for?
Police clearance, medical reports, translations, photographs and any service fee, in addition to the visa fee.
Where can I confirm fees and times?
Confirm with the Department of Home Affairs or the official application centre.