Visa Information

Overview

As an immediate family member of a South African citizen or permanent resident you may be issued a relative's permit once the financial means as contemplated in the Immigration Act, 2002 (Act No. 13 of 2002) have been complied with. Relative’s permits are valid for a minimum period of 24 months and may be extended.

For a spouse and/or a dependent child of a South African citizen or permanent resident the permit is issued free of charge, whilst there is a fee for other relatives wishing to join their family members in South Africa,.

Visa Fees

32.000 CFA

Visa fees must always be paid at Ecobank (please visit the center Monday through Friday from 08:30a.m to 11:00a.m. to have your file verified before paying at the bank)

Service fees can be paid by Bank card or by mobile money at the visa application center.

There is VFS fees as per below:

• VFS Service Charge : 45000
• SMS : 650 FCFA
• Courrier services (Dakar/ National / international ) : 10000 / 20000 / 40000 FCFA
• Photographies : 2000 FCFA (x 8 photos)
• Photocopy : 100 FCFA

Documents Required

• Please click here to download the checklist.

Photo Specifications

Applicants are requested to submit their Application form with the new photo format, as explained below.

Sample Photograph: Below specs to be maintained at 45mm x 45mm

Specifications

The successful delivery of some of the department's services relies not only on our efforts. You have the responsibility of providing the Department with the correct documentation. Please find details below for all supporting documentation that the department requires:

Photographs

Photographs submitted for identity documents and passports must comply to the following specifications:

• Length - 45mm
• Width - 45mm
• The background of the photograph shall be plain and free of shadows and shall not have a white lining
• Only the head and shoulders of the person concerned shall be included in the photograph and the head from the chin to the top of the hair shall not be smaller 22mm and not larger than 25mm
• The person concerned shall be photographed without any head-gear or veil, and any other additions to the face which tend to alter the natural likeness shall be removed. (The Director-General may exempt any person or any category of persons from any of these requirements.)
• Spectacles may be worn provided that the lenses do not make the eyes invisible. Spectacles with dark lenses may be worn if the eyes will appear distorted without them or if the person is blind
• The full-face of the person concerned shall be photographed directly from the front, and the head may not be bent or turned sideways
• The face shall be a recognizable likeness of the person and the head, hair, eyebrows, eyes, nose and moustache or beard, if any, shall be sharply and clearly defined
• Neither the photograph nor the copies thereof may be defaced by holes, pencil or ink marks or in any other manner

Processing Time

Visa applications will take 8 weeks to be processed.

This is an average estimated processing time, it can be shorter or longer, it is under the consular services discretion.

Download Forms

To Download a Form:

1. Click on the form link
2. When the form opens, save the form on your computer.

OR

1. Press the right button on your mouse on the required link.
2. Select Save Target As from the list
3. Save the form on your computer.

Overview

Exchange permits may be issued to foreigners who are not older than 25 years of age and wish to participate in cultural, economic or social exchange programmes administered by an organ of the State or a public higher educational institution in conjunction with an organ of a foreign state.

Visa Fees

32.000 CFA

Visa fees must always be paid at Ecobank (please visit the center Monday through Friday from 08:30a.m to 11:00a.m. to have your file verified before paying at the bank)

Service fees can be paid by Bank card or by mobile money at the visa application center.

There is VFS fees as per below:

• VFS Service Charge : 45000
• SMS : 650 FCFA
• Courrier services (Dakar/ National / international) : 10000 / 20000 / 40000 FCFA
• Photographies : 2000 FCFA (x 8 photos)
• Photocopy : 100 FCFA

Documents Required

Exchange visa

Section 22 of the ACT

The following original supporting documents must accompany the application

• Duly completed application form signed by applicant.
• Applicants are requested to get original documents for verification while submitting photocopies for any visa / permit category
• Original passport
• Copies of passport and previous visas
• Original Bank payment / Electronic Fund Transfer receipt for each applicant
• Appointment Letter
• Passport valid for no less than 30 calendar days after expiry of the intended visit.
• A medical report.
• Marriage certificate or in the case of a foreign spousal relationship, proof of official recognition thereof issued by the authorities of the foreign country of the applicant (where applicable).
• The affidavit where a spousal relationship to a South African citizen or resident is applicable as well as documentation proving cohabitation and the extent to which the related financial responsibilities are shared by the parties and setting out the particulars of children in the spousal relationship.
• Proof of a union recognised in terms of the Recognition of Customary Marriages Act, 1998 (Act No. 120 of 1998), where applicable.
• Divorce decree, where applicable.
• Proof of court order awarding custody, where applicable.
• Death certificate, in respect of late spouse, where applicable.
• Written consent from both parents and/or sole custody parent, where applicable, with proof of sole custody.
• Proof of legal adoption where applicable.
• Legal separation order, where applicable.
• Police clearance certificate issued by the police or security authority in each country where the relevant applicant resided for 12 months or longer after attaining the age of 18 years, during the 5 years immediately preceding the date of the visa application.
• A yellow fever vaccination certificate
• Proof of payment of the applicable fee
• In addition to the above requirements, in the case of a learning institution in the Republic, in conjunction with a foreign education and training institution or a foreign state institution organising or administering the programme, submit a letter from:
• proof of a valid return air flight ticket or written undertaking by the organ of state or learning institution accepting responsibility for the return or deportation costs of the applicant, as the case may be
• proof of medical cover for the duration of the exchange period with a medical scheme registered in terms of the Medical Schemes Act.
• The Department of Basic Education or Higher Education and Training or a learning institution in the Republic confirming that it is responsible for organising or administering the existence of the programme, outlining the activities, terms and conditions and duration thereof and accepting full responsibility for the student while he or she is in the Republic; and
• The foreign state institution or education and training institution confirming the particulars of the applicant, the applicant's enrolment with the foreign education and training institution, and the date on which the programme shall commence.
• In addition to the above requirements, in the case of a programme of cultural, economic or social exchange, organised or administered by an organ of state or a learning institution, in conjunction with a foreign education and training institution or a foreign state institution, submit a letter from:
• The organ of state or foreign education and training institution confirming the existence of the exchange programme; or
• The foreign education and training institution confirming the enrolment of the applicant or the foreign state institution conducting the programme, as the case may be.
• In addition to the above requirements, in the case of a foreigner who is under 25 years of age and has received an offer to conduct work for no longer than one year
• A written undertaking by the employer to—
• pay such foreigner remuneration which complies with applicable legal requirements;
• provide for the welfare and the needs of such foreigner while in the Republic under the aforesaid visa; and
• Report to the Director-General the failure of the foreigner to comply with the terms of his or her visa or to depart when so required;
• Flight reservation
• Travel insurance

Photo Specifications

Applicants are requested to submit their Application form with the new photo format, as explained below.

Sample Photograph: Below specs to be maintained at 45mm x 45mm

Specifications

The successful delivery of some of the department's services relies not only on our efforts. You have the responsibility of providing the Department with the correct documentation. Please find details below for all supporting documentation that the department requires:

Photographs

Photographs submitted for identity documents and passports must comply to the following specifications:

• Length - 45mm
• Width - 45mm
• The background of the photograph shall be plain and free of shadows and shall not have a white lining
• Only the head and shoulders of the person concerned shall be included in the photograph and the head from the chin to the top of the hair shall not be smaller 22mm and not larger than 25mm
• The person concerned shall be photographed without any head-gear or veil, and any other additions to the face which tend to alter the natural likeness shall be removed. (The Director-General may exempt any person or any category of persons from any of these requirements.)
• Spectacles may be worn provided that the lenses do not make the eyes invisible. Spectacles with dark lenses may be worn if the eyes will appear distorted without them or if the person is blind
• The full-face of the person concerned shall be photographed directly from the front, and the head may not be bent or turned sideways
• The face shall be a recognizable likeness of the person and the head, hair, eyebrows, eyes, nose and moustache or beard, if any, shall be sharply and clearly defined
• Neither the photograph nor the copies thereof may be defaced by holes, pencil or ink marks or in any other manner

Processing Time

All applications accepted at the South Africa application center will have an average processing time of – 8 weeks (approximate timeline)

Download Forms

To Download a Form:

1. Click on the form link
2. When the form opens, save the form on your computer.

OR

1. Press the right button on your mouse on the required link.
2. Select Save Target As from the list
3. Save the form on your computer.

Overview

Medical Visa applications can be made at any the Visa Facilitation Centre in Dakar, Senegal. Please note that a medical permit holder may not work or apply for work while in the country

Visa Fees

32 000 FCFA

Payment will be done at VFS in cash only

There is VFS fees as per below:

• VFS Service Charge : 45000
• SMS : 650 FCFA
• Courrier services (Dakar/ National / international ) : 10000 / 20000 / 40000 FCFA
• Photographies : 2000 FCFA (x 8 photos)
• Photocopy : 100 FCFA

Documents Required

Medical visa

Section 17 of the ACT

Documents required for a Medical Visa

• Duly completed application form signed by the applicant
• Valid passport which expires in no less than 30 days after expiry of the intended date of departure from the republic
• The application is being submitted in person, no less than 60 days prior to the expiry date of the applicant’s visa and if the visa was issued for less than 30 days, not later than seven working days before the expiry of the visa.

• A letter from the applicant's registered medical practitioner or medical institution within the republic, confirming-

  1. That space is available at the medical institution;
  2. The estimated costs of the treatment;
  3. Whether or not the disease or ailment is treatable or curable;
  4. The treatment schedule; and
  5. The period of intended treatment in the republic.
• The details of, and confirmation by, the person or institution responsible for the medical expenses and hospital fees: (provided that in a case where the applicant's medical scheme or employer is not liable for expenses incurred, proof of financial means to cover medical costs).
• The particulars of the persons accompanying the applicant
• A valid return air flight ticket, where applicable
• Proof of sufficient financial means or provision for the costs indirectly related to the treatment.
• Proof of payment of the applicable FEE In respect of a renewal of a Medical Visa:
• Flight reservation
• Travel insurance

Photo Specifications

Applicants are requested to submit their Application form with the new photo format, as explained below.

Sample Photograph: Below specs to be maintained at 45mm x 45mm

Specifications

The successful delivery of some of the department's services relies not only on our efforts. You have the responsibility of providing the Department with the correct documentation. Please find details below for all supporting documentation that the department requires:

Photographs

Photographs submitted for identity documents and passports must comply to the following specifications:

• Length - 45mm
• Width - 45mm
• The background of the photograph shall be plain and free of shadows and shall not have a white lining
• Only the head and shoulders of the person concerned shall be included in the photograph and the head from the chin to the top of the hair shall not be smaller 22mm and not larger than 25mm
• The person concerned shall be photographed without any head-gear or veil, and any other additions to the face which tend to alter the natural likeness shall be removed. (The Director-General may exempt any person or any category of persons from any of these requirements.)
• Spectacles may be worn provided that the lenses do not make the eyes invisible. Spectacles with dark lenses may be worn if the eyes will appear distorted without them or if the person is blind
• The full-face of the person concerned shall be photographed directly from the front, and the head may not be bent or turned sideways
• The face shall be a recognizable likeness of the person and the head, hair, eyebrows, eyes, nose and moustache or beard, if any, shall be sharply and clearly defined
• Neither the photograph nor the copies thereof may be defaced by holes, pencil or ink marks or in any other manner

Processing Time

All applications accepted at the South Africa Visa Application center will have an average processing time of 8 weeks (approximate timeline)

Download Forms

Temporary residence form

To Download a Form:

1. Click on the form link
2. When the form opens, save the form on your computer.

OR

1. Press the right button on your mouse on the required link.
2. Select Save Target As from the list
3. Save the form on your computer.

Overview

Study permits are valid for the duration of the course for which they are issued, alternatively 36 months for school and 24 months for other institutions.

As a holder of a study permit you may also apply for permission to work for the purposes of getting work experience, as part of your studies to obtain a diploma or degree by submitting:

• an offer to do practical training
• consent from the educational institution
• proof that you are still a registered student

The Department’s consent to get practical training as part of your studies is issued free of charge provided that you are a registered student and that your study permit remains valid for the entire duration of the training period.

Alternatively, as a foreigner studying at a higher educational institution with a valid study permit, you may work part-time for no more than 20 hours per week. However, you may not work during academic vacations.

The overriding consideration in processing applications for study permits are that:

• No foreigner may displace a South African citizen/resident at a local educational institution
• The student must have proof of sufficient funds to pay for day-to-day living expenses, accommodation as well as tuition fees during his/her stay in South Africa
• The student must have adequate medical cover with a registered South African medical scheme and proof thereof

Visa Fees

32 000 CFA

Payment will be done at VFS in cash only

There is VFS fees as per below:

• VFS Service Charge : 45000
• SMS : 650 FCFA
• Courrier services (Dakar/ National / international ) : 10000 / 20000 / 40000 FCFA
• Photographies : 2000 FCFA (x 8 photos)
• Photocopy : 100 FCFA

Documents Required

Documents required for a Study Visa

• Duly completed application form signed by the Applicant
• Applicants are requested to submit original documents plus certified copies
• Original passport
• Copies of passport and previous visas
• Original Bank payment certified by bank
• Appointment Letter
• Passport valid for no less than 30 days after intended stay the Republic
• The application must be submitted in person
• A yellow fever vaccination
• Police clearance certificate issued by the police or security authority in each country where the relevant applicant resided for 12 months or longer after attaining the age of 18 years, during the 5 years immediately preceding the date of the visa application.
• A medical report not older than 6 months
• Marriage certificate or in the case of a foreign spousal relationship, proof of official recognition thereof issued by the authorities of the foreign country of the applicant (where applicable).
• The affidavit where a spousal relationship to a South African citizen or resident is applicable, as well as documentation proving cohabitation and the extent to which the related financial responsibilities are shared by the parties and setting out the particulars of children in the spousal relationship.
• Divorce decree, where applicable.
• Court order granting full or specific parental responsibilities and rights, where applicable.
• Death certificate, in respect of late spouse, where applicable.
• Written consent from both parents and full parental responsibilities, where applicable.
• Proof of adoption where applicable.
• An official letter confirming provisional acceptance or acceptance at that learning institution and the duration of the course.

• An undertaking by the Registrar or Principal of the learning institution to-

  1. provide proof of registration as contemplated in the relevant legislation within 60 days of registration; or
  2. In the event of failure to register by the closing date, provide the Director-General with a notification of failure to register within 7 days of the closing date of registration;
  3. Within 30 days, notify the Director-General that the applicant is no longer registered with such institution; and
  4. Within 30 days, notify the Director-General when the applicant has completed his or her studies or requires to extend such period of study

• Proof of payment of the applicable fee

  In addition to the above requirements, in the case of a foreign state accepting responsibility for the applicant in terms of a bilateral agreement:

• A written undertaking from such foreign state to pay for the departure of the applicant.
• An official letter confirming provisional acceptance or acceptance at that learning institution and the duration of the course.

• An undertaking by the Registrar or Principal of the learning institution to-

  1. provide proof of registration as contemplated in the relevant legislation within 60 days of registration; or
  2. In the event of failure to register by the closing date, provide the Director-General with a notification of failure to register within 7 days of the closing date of registration;
  3. Within 30 days, notify the Director-General that the applicant is no longer registered with such institution; and

  4. Within 30 days, notify the Director-General when the applicant has completed his or her studies or requires to extend such period of study

• In addition to the above requirements, in the case of a learner under the age of 18 years-

  1. an unabridged birth certificate;
  2. a valid passport;
  3. proof of physical address and contact number of the adult person residing in the Republic, who is acting or has accepted to act as such learner's guardian, including a confirmatory letter from that guardian; and
  4. proof of consent for the intended stay from both parents, or where applicable, from the parent or legal guardian who has been issued with a court order granting full or specific parental responsibilities and rights or legal guardianship of the learner.
  5. An undertaking by the parents or legal guardian that the learner will have medical cover for the full duration of the period of study
• Proof of medical cover renewed annually for the period of study with a medical scheme registered in terms of the Medical Schemes Act.
• Proof of sufficient financial means available to the learner whilst resident in the Republic.
• In addition to the above requirements,in the case of study permit ,the preferred Insurance cover should be from Momentum,Old Mutual or Ingwe Insurance companies.
• Flight reservation
• Travel insurance

Photo Specifications

Applicants are requested to submit their Application form with the new photo format, as explained below.

Sample Photograph: Below specs to be maintained at 45mm x 45mm

Specifications

The successful delivery of some of the department's services relies not only on our efforts. You have the responsibility of providing the Department with the correct documentation. Please find details below for all supporting documentation that the department requires:

Photographs

Photographs submitted for identity documents and passports must comply to the following specifications:

• Length - 45mm
• Width - 45mm
• The background of the photograph shall be plain and free of shadows and shall not have a white lining
• Only the head and shoulders of the person concerned shall be included in the photograph and the head from the chin to the top of the hair shall not be smaller 22mm and not larger than 25mm
• The person concerned shall be photographed without any head-gear or veil, and any other additions to the face which tend to alter the natural likeness shall be removed. (The Director-General may exempt any person or any category of persons from any of these requirements.)
• Spectacles may be worn provided that the lenses do not make the eyes invisible. Spectacles with dark lenses may be worn if the eyes will appear distorted without them or if the person is blind
• The full-face of the person concerned shall be photographed directly from the front, and the head may not be bent or turned sideways
• The face shall be a recognizable likeness of the person and the head, hair, eyebrows, eyes, nose and moustache or beard, if any, shall be sharply and clearly defined
• Neither the photograph nor the copies thereof may be defaced by holes, pencil or ink marks or in any other manner

Processing Time

All applications accepted at the South Africa visa application center will have an average processing time of 8 weeks (approximate timeline)

Download Forms

To Download a Form:

1. Click on the form link
2. When the form opens, save the form on your computer.

OR

1. Press the right button on your mouse on the required link.
2. Select Save Target As from the list
3. Save the form on your computer.

Overview

Foreigners who are contemplating investing in the South African economy by establishing a business or by investing in an existing business in the country must apply for a business permit. As an applicant, you will be required to invest a prescribed financial capital contribution.

The capital requirements above may be reduced or waived in respect of the following types of industries/businesses:

• Information and Communication Technology
• Clothing and textile manufacturing
• Chemicals and bio-technology
• Agro-processing
• Metals and minerals refinement
• Automotive manufacturing
• Tourism
• Crafts

Visa Fees

115.000 CFA

Payment will be done at VFS in cash only

There is VFS fees as per below:

• VFS Service Charge : 45000
• SMS : 650 FCFA
• Courrier services (Dakar/ National / international ) : 10000 / 20000 / 40000 FCFA
• Photographies : 2000 FCFA (x 8 photos)
• Photocopy : 100 FCFA

Documents Required

Documents required for a Business Visa

• Duly completed application form signed by the applicant.
• Passport valid for no less than 30 days after the intended date of departure from the Republic
• The application must be submitted in person,
• A yellow fever vaccination
• Police clearance certificate issued by the police or security authority in each country where the relevant applicant resided for 12 months or longer after attaining the age of 18 years, during the 5 years immediately preceding the date of the visa application.
• A medical report not older than 6 months at the time of submission
• Marriage certificate or in the case of a foreign spousal relationship, proof of official recognition thereof issued by the authorities of the foreign country of the applicant (where applicable).
• The affidavit where a spousal relationship to a South African citizen or resident is applicable, as well as documentation proving cohabitation and the extent to which the related financial responsibilities are shared by the parties and setting out the particulars of children in the spousal relationship.
• Divorce decree, where applicable.
• Court order granting full or specific parental responsibilities and rights, where applicable.
• Death certificate, in respect of late spouse, where applicable.
• Written consent from both parents and full parental responsibilities, where applicable.
• Proof of adoption where applicable.
• Legal separation order, where applicable.

• Proof of payment of the applicable fee

  Additional supporting documents in support of a business visa In respect of a business visa by a foreigner who intends to establish a business or invest in a business that is not yet established in the Republic

• A certificate issued by a chartered accountant registered with the South African Institute of Chartered Accountants or a professional accountant registered with the South African Institute of Professional Accountants to the effect that-

  • At least an amount in cash to be invested in the Republic as determined from time to time by the Minister, after consultation with the Minister of Trade and Industry, by notice in the Gazette, is available; or
  • At least an amount in cash and a capital contribution as determined from time to time by the Minister, after consultation with the Minister of Trade and Industry, by notice in the Gazette is available.
• Undertaking by the applicant that at least 60% of the total staff compliment to be employed in the operations of the business shall be South African citizens or permanent residents employed permanently in various positions: (Provided that proof of compliance with this undertaking shall be submitted within 12 months of issuance of the visa.)

• An undertaking to register with the-

  • South African Revenue Service;
  • Unemployment Insurance Fund;
  • Compensation Fund for Occupational Injuries and Diseases;
  • Companies and Intellectual Properties Commission (CPIC); where legally required, and
  • Relevant professional body, board or council recognised by SAQA in terms of section 13(1)(i) of the National Qualifications Framework Act where applicable: (Provided that upon registration, all certificates shall be submitted to the Director-General)

• A letter of recommendation from the Department of Trade and Industry regarding-

  • The feasibility of the business; and

  • The contribution to the national interest of the Republic

    Additional supporting documents in respect of a business visa application by a foreigner who has established a business or invested in an existing business in the Republic

  • A certificate issued by a chartered accountant registered with the South African Institute of Chartered Accountants or a professional accountant registered with the South African Institute of Professional Accountants to the effect that:

    • At least an amount in cash to be invested in the Republic as determined from time to time by the Minister, after consultation with the Minister of Trade and Industry, by notice in the Gazette, is available or already invested; or;
    • At least an amount in cash and a capital contribution as determined from time to time by the Minister, after consultation with the Minister of Trade and Industry, by notice in the Gazette, is available or already invested;
  • Proof that at least 60% of the total staff compliment employed in the operations of the business are South African citizens or permanent residents employed permanently in various positions.

  • Proof of registration with the-

    • South African Revenue Service;
    • Unemployment Insurance Fund;
    • Compensation Fund for Occupational Injuries and Diseases;
    • Companies and Intellectual Properties Commission (CPIC), where legally required; and
    • Relevant professional body, board or council recognised by SAQA in terms of section 13(1)(i) of the National Qualifications Framework Act, where applicable.

  • A letter of recommendation from the Department of Trade and Industry regarding -

    • The feasibility of the business; and
    • The contribution to the national interest of the Republic.

  • Proof of registration with the-

    • Financial statement in respect of the preceding financial year; and
    • Proof of investment
    • Flight reservation
    • Travel insurance

Photo Specifications

Applicants are requested to submit their Application form with the new photo format, as explained below.

Sample Photograph: Below specs to be maintained at 45mm x 45mm

Specifications

The successful delivery of some of the department's services relies not only on our efforts. You have the responsibility of providing the Department with the correct documentation. Please find details below for all supporting documentation that the department requires:

Photographs

Photographs submitted for identity documents and passports must comply to the following specifications:

• Length - 45mm
• Width - 45mm
• The background of the photograph shall be plain and free of shadows and shall not have a white lining
• Only the head and shoulders of the person concerned shall be included in the photograph and the head from the chin to the top of the hair shall not be smaller 22mm and not larger than 25mm
• The person concerned shall be photographed without any head-gear or veil, and any other additions to the face which tend to alter the natural likeness shall be removed. (The Director-General may exempt any person or any category of persons from any of these requirements.)
• Spectacles may be worn provided that the lenses do not make the eyes invisible. Spectacles with dark lenses may be worn if the eyes will appear distorted without them or if the person is blind
• The full-face of the person concerned shall be photographed directly from the front, and the head may not be bent or turned sideways
• The face shall be a recognizable likeness of the person and the head, hair, eyebrows, eyes, nose and moustache or beard, if any, shall be sharply and clearly defined
• Neither the photograph nor the copies thereof may be defaced by holes, pencil or ink marks or in any other manner

Processing Time

All applications accepted at the South Africa visa application center will have an average processing time of – 8 weeks (approximate timeline)

Download Forms

To Download a Form:

1. Click on the form link
2. When the form opens, save the form on your computer.

OR

1. Press the right button on your mouse on the required link.
2. Select Save Target As from the list
3. Save the form on your computer.

Overview

A treaty permit is an official document that gives foreigners permission to enter South Africa to participate in programmes that have been agreed upon by South Africa and the visitors’ respective countries. A treaty permit can be applied at South African high commission

Visa Fees

Payment will be done at VFS in cash only

There is VFS fees as per below:

• VFS Service Charge : 45000
• SMS : 650 FCFA
• Courrier services (Dakar/ National / international ) : 10000 / 20000 / 40000 FCFA
• Photographies : 2000 FCFA (x 8 photos)
• Photocopy : 100 FCFA

Documents Required

• Duly completed application form signed by applicant.
• Valid passport which expires in no less than 30 days after expiry of the intended date of departure from the Republic
• The application must be submitted in person at the South African High Commission
• A yellow fever vaccination
• Police clearance certificate issued by the police or security authority in each country where the relevant applicant resided for 12 months or longer after attaining the age of 18 years, during the 5 years immediately preceding the date of the visa application.
• A medical report not older than 6 months
• Marriage certificate or in the case of a foreign spousal relationship, proof of official recognition thereof issued by the authorities of the foreign country of the applicant (where applicable).
• The affidavit where a spousal relationship to a South African citizen or resident is applicable, as well as documentation proving cohabitation and the extent to which the related financial responsibilities are shared by the parties and setting out the particulars of children in the spousal relationship.
• Divorce decree, where applicable.
• Court order granting full or specific parental responsibilities and rights, where applicable.
• Death certificate, in respect of late spouse, where applicable.
• Written consent from both parents and full parental responsibilities, where applicable.
• Proof of adoption where applicable.
• Legal separation order, where applicable.
• A letter from the relevant organ of state which is party to the treaty attesting to-
• the nature of the programme;
• participation of the foreigner in the specified programme;
• the type of activities the foreigner is expected to perform and the duration thereof.
• Accommodation of the foreigner.
• Any other relevant details pertaining to the foreigner's stay in the Republic.
• A written undertaking by the sending or receiving organ of state accepting responsibility for the costs related to the deportation of the applicant and his or her dependent family members, should it become necessary.
• Proof of payment of the applicable fee
• Flight reservation
• Travel insurance

Photo Specifications

Applicants are requested to submit their Application form with the new photo format, as explained below.

Sample Photograph: Below specs to be maintained at 45mm x 45mm

Specifications

The successful delivery of some of the department's services relies not only on our efforts. You have the responsibility of providing the Department with the correct documentation. Please find details below for all supporting documentation that the department requires:

Photographs

Photographs submitted for identity documents and passports must comply to the following specifications:

• Length - 45mm
• Width - 45mm
• The background of the photograph shall be plain and free of shadows and shall not have a white lining
• Only the head and shoulders of the person concerned shall be included in the photograph and the head from the chin to the top of the hair shall not be smaller 22mm and not larger than 25mm
• The person concerned shall be photographed without any head-gear or veil, and any other additions to the face which tend to alter the natural likeness shall be removed. (The Director-General may exempt any person or any category of persons from any of these requirements.)
• Spectacles may be worn provided that the lenses do not make the eyes invisible. Spectacles with dark lenses may be worn if the eyes will appear distorted without them or if the person is blind
• The full-face of the person concerned shall be photographed directly from the front, and the head may not be bent or turned sideways
• The face shall be a recognizable likeness of the person and the head, hair, eyebrows, eyes, nose and moustache or beard, if any, shall be sharply and clearly defined
• Neither the photograph nor the copies thereof may be defaced by holes, pencil or ink marks or in any other manner

Processing Time

All applications accepted at the South Africa visa application centerwill have an average processing time of 8 weeks (approximate timeline)

Download Forms

Temporary residence form

To Download a Form:

1. Click on the form link
2. When the form opens, save the form on your computer.

OR

1. Press the right button on your mouse on the required link.
2. Select Save Target As from the list
3. Save the form on your computer.

Overview

A corporate permit allows a corporate entity (e.g. a mine group, farmer, etc.) to employ a pre-determined number of skilled/semi-skilled/unskilled workers. There is no fixed validity period for such permits as the validity period is determined and stipulated by the corporate entity upon application

Visa Fees

32 000 CFA

Payment will be done at VFS in cash only

There is VFS fees as per below:

• VFS Service Charge : 45000
• SMS : 650 FCFA
• Courrier services (Dakar/ National / international) : 10000 / 20000 / 40000 FCFA
• Photographies : 2000 FCFA (x 8 photos)
• Photocopy : 100 FCFA

Documents Required

Corporate visa

Section 21 of the ACT

• Duly completed application form signed by the applicant

• Proof of the need to employ the requested number of foreigners

  A certificate by the Department of Labour (DOL) confirming:

  • i. That despite diligent search, the corporate applicant was unable to find suitable citizens or permanent residents to occupy the position available in the corporate entity;
  • ii. The job description and proposed remuneration in respect of each foreigner;
  • iii. that the salary and benefits of any foreigner employed by the corporate applicant shall not be inferior to the average salary and benefits of citizens or permanent residents occupying similar positions in the republic (note: an acknowledgement letter from DOL confirming that this information has been sent to DHA electronically may also be accepted)
• Proof of registration of the corporation with South African revenue service
• Proof of registration of the corporation with unemployment insurance fund
• Proof of registration of the corporation with compensation fund for occupational injuries and diseases
• Proof of registration of the corporation with companies and intellectual properties commission (CIPC), where legally required
• an undertaking by the employer to inform the director-general should any foreign employee not comply with the provisions of the act or visa conditions or is no longer in the employ of such employer or is employed in a different capacity or role; and
• A written undertaking by the corporate applicant to pay the deportation costs of any foreign employee accepting responsibility for the return costs related to the deportation of the foreign employee, should it be necessary.
• Proof that at least 60% of the total staff complement that are employed in the operations of the business are citizens or permanent residents employed permanently in various positions.

• An undertaking by the corporate applicant giving assurance that:

  • a. The passport of the foreigner shall be valid at all times;
  • b. The foreigner shall be employed by the corporate applicant to conduct work for the corporate applicant only in the specific position for which the visa has been issued;
  • c. Such foreigner departs from the republic upon completion of his or her contract of employment;

  • d. Any foreigner employed in terms of the corporate visa at all times complies with the-

    • i. provisions of the act; and
    • ii. Terms and conditions of the corporate visa and of the corporate work certificate;
    • iii. The director-general is immediately notified if there is reason to believe that the foreigner is no longer in compliance with the provisions of the act; and
    • iv. The financial guarantees by the corporate applicant to defray deportation and other costs should the corporate visa be withdrawn, or certain foreigners fail to leave the republic when no longer subject to the corporate visa, are complied with.
    • confirmation by the corporate applicant that the application is not for any business undertaking which is listed as undesirable by the minister from time to time in the gazette,

  • Proof of payment of the applicable fee

    Corporate worker

  • Duly completed application form signed by applicant.
  • Passport valid for no less than 30 calendar days after expiry of the intended visit.
  • A medical report not older than 6 months
  • Marriage certificate or in the case of a foreign spousal relationship, proof of official recognition thereof issued by the authorities of the foreign country of the applicant (where applicable).

  • The affidavit where a spousal relationship to a South African citizen or resident is applicable as well as documentation proving cohabitation and the extent to which the related financial responsibilities are shared by the parties and setting out the particulars of children in the spousal relationship.

  • Proof of a union recognised in terms of the recognition of customary marriages act, 1998 (act no. 120 of 1998), where applicable.
  • Divorce decree, where applicable.
  • Proof of court order awarding custody, where applicable.
  • Death certificate, in respect of late spouse, where applicable.
  • Written consent from both parents and/or sole custody parent, where applicable, with proof of sole custody.
  • Proof of legal adoption where applicable.
  • Legal separation order, where applicable.
  • Police clearance certificate issued by the police or security authority in each country where the relevant applicant resided for 12 months or longer after attaining the age of 18 years, during the 5 years immediately preceding the date of the visa application.
  • a yellow fever vaccination certificate if that person travelled or intends travelling from or transiting through a yellow fever endemic area: (provided that the certificate shall not be required where that person travelled or intends travelling in direct transit through such area)
  • Copy of the main corporate visa issued to the prospective employer
  • Original corporate worker authorization certificate (fully completed)
  • A valid employment contract
  • A written undertaking by the corporate applicant to ensure that the foreigner departs from the republic upon termination of his or her contract of employment or accepting responsibility for the return or costs related to the deportation of the foreigner should it become necessary
  • Proof of qualifications evaluated by South African Qualification Authority (SAQA), and translated by a sworn translator into one of the official languages of the republic, or skills and experience in line with the job offer; and
  • A certificate of registration with the professional body, council or board recognized by SAQA in terms of section 13(1)(i) of the national qualifications framework act.

  • Proof of payment of the applicable fee

    Note: a corporate worker may not renew his or her corporate worker certificate or apply for a change of status in the republic.

    application for a corporate worker certificate in terms of bilateral agreements to employ foreigners partially, mainly or wholly from such foreign countries after issuance of a corporate worker authorization certification in terms of section 21(4)(b) read with regulation 20 and 10

  • a. A passport valid for no less than 30 days after the expiry date of the intended stay.
  • b. A full set of fingerprints.
  • c. A valid employment contract, which has been entered into for a maximum period of 12 months.
  • d. Corporate worker authorization certificate (fully completed)
  • e. Proof of payment, where applicable
  • Flight reservation
  • Travel insurance

Photo Specifications

Applicants are requested to submit their Application form with the new photo format, as explained below.

Sample Photograph: Below specs to be maintained at 45mm x 45mm

Specifications

The successful delivery of some of the department's services relies not only on our efforts. You have the responsibility of providing the Department with the correct documentation. Please find details below for all supporting documentation that the department requires:

Photographs

Photographs submitted for identity documents and passports must comply to the following specifications:

• Length - 45mm
• Width - 45mm
• The background of the photograph shall be plain and free of shadows and shall not have a white lining
• Only the head and shoulders of the person concerned shall be included in the photograph and the head from the chin to the top of the hair shall not be smaller 22mm and not larger than 25mm
• The person concerned shall be photographed without any head-gear or veil, and any other additions to the face which tend to alter the natural likeness shall be removed. (The Director-General may exempt any person or any category of persons from any of these requirements.)
• Spectacles may be worn provided that the lenses do not make the eyes invisible. Spectacles with dark lenses may be worn if the eyes will appear distorted without them or if the person is blind
• The full-face of the person concerned shall be photographed directly from the front, and the head may not be bent or turned sideways
• The face shall be a recognizable likeness of the person and the head, hair, eyebrows, eyes, nose and moustache or beard, if any, shall be sharply and clearly defined
• Neither the photograph nor the copies thereof may be defaced by holes, pencil or ink marks or in any other manner

Processing Time

All applications accepted at the South Africa visa application center will have an average processing time of 8 weeks (approximate timeline)

Download Forms

To Download a Form:

1. Click on the form link
2. When the form opens, save the form on your computer.

OR

1. Press the right button on your mouse on the required link.
2. Select Save Target As from the list
3. Save the form on your computer.