Visa & Entry Requirements by Country in Durban, South Africa

1. South African Visa Application Centre

Official government centre for visa applications, providing a streamlined process to apply for visas to enter South Africa.

Ease of Submission: Allows for easy submission and tracking of application.
Accurate Information: Provides accurate, up-to-date information on visa requirements.
Variety of Services: Offers multiple services like expedited processing for urgent cases.

Third-party service provider for South African visa applications, offering convenience and efficiency.

Convenient Locations: Located in major cities worldwide, making it easy to find a centre.
Express Services: Provides express services for urgent travel needs.
Secure Processing: Ensures secure processing and handling of visa applications.

Online application system for visitors to obtain a South African visa electronically.

Certain nationalities can obtain a visa upon arrival in Durban, South Africa.

Simplicity: Avoids the need to apply and wait for a visa before travel.
Convenience: Allows for flexibility in travel plans.
Minimal Documentation: Requires less documentation compared to a pre-arranged visa.

For travelers transiting through Durban en route to another country.

Temporary Admission: Allows for temporary admission into South Africa while in transit.
Specific Requirements: Has specific requirements based on the duration and purpose of transit.
Transit Hubs: Applies to specific airports or ports in South Africa.

For foreigners seeking employment opportunities in South Africa.

Skills Shortage: Available for occupations experiencing skills shortages in South Africa.
Employer Sponsorship: Requires a sponsorship from an employer based in South Africa.
Temporary or Permanent Status: Offered as either temporary or permanent work visas depending on the nature of employment.

For foreigners visiting South Africa for business purposes.

Meetings and Conferences: Allows for attending meetings, conferences, or seminars in South Africa.
Temporary Stay: Permits a temporary stay of up to three months.
Extendable Duration: May be extended if the purpose of visit remains valid.

Allows foreign students to study at educational institutions in South Africa.

Study Duration: Duration varies based on the length of the course.
School Registration: Requires registration at a recognized South African educational institution.
Financial Capability: Demonstrates financial capability to cover tuition fees and living expenses.

For tourists or visitors planning to stay in South Africa for less than 90 days.

Leisure and Tourism: Allows for leisure, tourism, or visiting family and friends.
Tourist Route: Valid for travel within the specified tourist route only.
Limited Stay: Permits a stay of up to 90 days.

For foreign spouses or partners of South African citizens or permanent residents.

Family Reunification: Facilitates family reunification in South Africa.
Marital Status: Applies to both married and unmarried partners.
Temporary or Permanent: Offered as either temporary or permanent visas depending on the nature of relationship.

For individuals seeking medical treatment in South Africa.

Healthcare Facilities: Access to quality healthcare facilities in South Africa.
Length of Stay: Duration varies based on the nature and length of treatment.
Valid Treatment Plan: Requires a valid treatment plan from a recognized South African medical facility.

A limited number of work visas allocated annually to skilled workers based on national priorities.

Skills Shortage: Allows for the admission of skilled workers in high demand in South Africa.
Specific Occupations: Applies to specific occupations and industries.
Quota System: Subject to an annual quota set by the South African government.

For diplomats, government officials, and their families.

Immune from Jurisdiction: Enjoys immunity from South African jurisdiction.
Duration of Stay: Length of stay depends on the purpose and duration of official duties.
Expedited Processing: Offers expedited processing due to diplomatic status.

For individuals seeking refuge or asylum in South Africa.

Protection from Persecution: Provides protection for individuals fleeing persecution.
Legal Status: Offers a legal status and access to basic services while the application is processed.
Prolonged Stay: Allows for a prolonged stay in South Africa while the application is being processed.

For cases not covered by standard visa categories.

Unique Circumstances: Applies to situations with unique circumstances not covered by regular visas.
Government Approval: Requires government approval based on the nature of the case.
Temporary Stay: Permits a temporary stay in South Africa for the duration of the special permit.