A step-by-step guide to applying for the South African e-Visa

The South African visa application process has become easier with the introduction of an e-visa system. The application portal was designed to simplify travel for short-term visitors such as tourists, business travellers or people visiting their families.

Launched in 2019, the South African e-visa was designed to streamline visa applications for eligible individuals from select countries. Hence, avoiding the need for physical visits to embassies. 

The South African e-Visa is available to citizens from select countries, including Nigeria. Other eligible nationalities include Algeria, Ghana, Kenya, Uganda, Côte d’Ivoire, and several non-African countries like India, China, Germany, and Saudi Arabia. 

Applicants receive their visa electronically, linked to their passports, upon approval. This allows them to travel to South Africa with minimal hassle while meeting the country’s entry requirements.

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What You Should Know Before Applying

As a traveller, it is important to ensure that your travel plans are in line with the allowable activities of the visa before applying. This will help you avoid complications since application fees are non-refundable. Additionally, payments for the e-Visa fee must be made using an internationally accepted dollar-based debit or credit card.

Applications for the e-visa are submitted exclusively through the South African Department of Home Affairs’ e-Home platform. To safeguard against scams, applicants should use only the official website. 

For travellers with minors, additional documents may be necessary, such as a notarized consent letter from a non-accompanying parent or proof of guardianship, ensuring that all legal requirements are met.

Upon arrival in South Africa, it is crucial to carry a printed copy of the approved e-visa along with the supporting documents used during the application process, as immigration officials may request them. Additionally, travellers must adhere strictly to the visa’s validity period.

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Step-by-Step Guide to the South African e-Visa Application

1. Confirm Eligibility
   Verify that your country of citizenship is eligible for the e-Visa. Nigerians are eligible to apply online.
2. Visit the e-Home Affairs Website
   Go to the South African Department of Home Affairs website.
3. Create an Account
   Register on the e-Home Affairs platform using your email address and a secure password.
4. Complete the Application Form
   Log in and select the appropriate visa type, such as a visitor’s visa. Provide details such as personal information, travel plans, and purpose of visit.
5. Upload Required Documents
   Attach digital copies of:
   • A valid Nigerian passport with at least six months of validity.
   • A recent passport-size photo.
   • Proof of accommodation in South Africa.
   • A return or onward ticket.
   • Financial proof such as bank statements or salary slips.
   • Yellow fever vaccination certificate (if applicable).
6. Pay the Visa Fee
   The e-visa fee is approximately $25, payable with a valid international (dollar-based) credit or debit card.
7. Submit the Application
   After reviewing your application, submit it online. A reference number will be issued for tracking.
8. Receive e-Visa Approval
   Upon approval, your e-visa will be sent to your registered email within 2 weeks.
   You should print a copy to carry during your trip.

Costs and processing times for the South African eVisa

The government fee for the South African e-Visa is approximately $25, excluding additional processing fees from platforms like iVisa.

Applicants can choose from three processing speed options: Super Rush Processing, which costs $86.99 and delivers the e-Visa in 20 days; Rush Processing, costing $69.49 with a 23-day delivery time; and Standard Processing, priced at $63.49 with a delivery time of 26 days.

These changes aim to stimulate economic growth by simplifying the immigration process. Tourism remains a vital sector for South Africa, with international tourist arrivals reaching 2.4 million between January and March 2024, marking a 15.4% increase compared to the same period in 2023.

Hopefully, the country’s diverse attractions, including breathtaking landscapes, rich cultural heritage, and dynamic cities will continue to attract visitors worldwide.