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South Africa Visa for Afghanistan Citizens 2026

Visa Required

Afghanistan citizens require a visa for South Africa, typically a Temporary Residence Visa; apply through VFS Global or the South African Embassy in Kabul (if operational, otherwise a designated mission) with fees starting from ZAR 1,420 (approx. USD 75) and processing around 10-15 working days.

Guide last updated July 27, 2026. Always verify with official sources before travel.

What you need

  • Passport: Must be valid for at least 30 days after the intended date of departure from South Africa and have at least two blank pages.
  • Application Form: Duly completed BI-1170 form (available on the DHA website).
  • Financial Proof: Bank statements for the last three months showing sufficient funds to cover your stay. Specific minimum amounts are not explicitly stated but should reflect reasonable living expenses.
  • Accommodation: Proof of accommodation such as a hotel booking, invitation letter from a host with their ID and proof of residence, or a return flight booking.
  • Return Ticket: Confirmed return or onward ticket.
  • Photos: Two recent passport-sized photographs (3.5cm x 4.5cm) with a white background, neutral facial expression, and no headwear unless for religious reasons.
  • Biometrics: Fingerprints and photograph will be taken at the visa application centre (VFS Global).
  • Travel Health Insurance: Mandatory for all visa applications. It must cover medical emergencies and repatriation and be valid for the duration of your stay.

Visa types

  • Tourist Visa (Visitor's Permit):
  • Official Name: Visitor's Permit (Temporary Residence Visa)
  • Validity: Typically issued for the duration of your stay, up to 90 days.
  • Max Stay: Up to 90 days per entry.
  • Entry: Can be single or multiple entry depending on the application and approval.
  • Approximate Fee: ZAR 1,420 (approx. USD 75).
  • Business Visa:
  • Official Name: Visitor's Permit (Temporary Residence Visa) - Business Purposes.
  • Validity: Up to 90 days.
  • Max Stay: Up to 90 days per entry.
  • Entry: Can be single or multiple entry.
  • Approximate Fee: ZAR 1,420 (approx. USD 75).
  • Study Visa:
  • Official Name: Study Visa (Temporary Residence Visa).
  • Validity: For the duration of the study, up to 3 years.
  • Max Stay: Up to 3 years.
  • Entry: Single or multiple entry.
  • Approximate Fee: ZAR 1,420 (approx. USD 75).
  • Work Visa:
  • Several categories exist, including General Work Visa, Critical Skills Work Visa, Intra-Company Transfer Work Visa.
  • Validity: Varies based on the specific work visa category, up to 3 years.
  • Max Stay: Up to 3 years.
  • Entry: Single or multiple entry.
  • Approximate Fee: ZAR 1,420 (approx. USD 75).
  • Other categories such as Relative's Visa, Medical Visa, etc., are also available.

How to apply

  • Application Submission: Applications must be submitted in person at a Visa Facilitation Centre (VFS Global) or directly at the South African Embassy/Consulate in the country of residence. Due to the current situation in Afghanistan, applicants may need to apply at a designated mission in a neighbouring country or through VFS Global's network if available. Check the DFA website for the most current accredited mission.
  • Document Checklist: Refer to the VFS Global website for the specific country you are applying from, or the DFA website for the required documents for each visa type. This typically includes the application form, passport, photos, financial proof, accommodation, return ticket, medical certificate, police clearance certificate, and travel insurance.
  • Fee Payment: Fees are typically paid in South African Rand (ZAR) or equivalent local currency at the VFS Global centre or embassy. Credit/debit cards and bank transfers are usually accepted. Check the VFS Global website for exact payment methods.
  • Biometrics: Applicants will have their fingerprints and photograph taken at the VFS Global centre or embassy during the application submission.
  • Processing: Standard processing times apply. Express or priority processing may be available in some locations for an additional fee.

Fees & processing time

  • Visa Fee: ZAR 1,420 (approx. USD 75) for most temporary residence visas. Fees are subject to change.
  • VFS/BLS Service Fee: VFS Global charges a service fee, which varies by location. Expect an additional fee of approximately ZAR 600 - ZAR 1000 (approx. USD 30 - USD 55).
  • Total Cost Estimate: Approximately ZAR 2,020 - ZAR 2,420 (approx. USD 105 - USD 130) plus any additional costs for medical exams, police clearance, or courier services.
  • Standard Processing Time: Typically 10-15 working days, but can take longer depending on the volume of applications and the complexity of the case.
  • Express/Priority Option: May be available in certain locations for an additional fee, reducing processing time to around 5-7 working days. Inquire at the VFS Global centre.

Tips for Afghanistan travelers

  • Application Timing: Apply at least 6-8 weeks before your intended travel date to allow for processing and potential delays.
  • Common Rejection Reasons: Incomplete application forms, insufficient financial proof, lack of clear itinerary, undeclared previous visa refusals, and inadequate travel insurance are common reasons for rejection. For Afghanistan nationals, ensuring all documentation is genuine and verifiable is crucial.
  • VFS/BLS vs. Embassy: Applying through VFS Global is generally recommended as they streamline the process, manage appointments, and ensure all documentation is submitted correctly. Direct embassy applications can be more complex and have longer waiting times.
  • Travel Advisories: Always check the latest travel advisories issued by your home country and South Africa before planning your trip. Refer to the DFA website for official South African government advisories.
  • Extensions: Extensions for Visitor's Permits can be applied for within South Africa at a Department of Home Affairs office, but this should be done well in advance of your current permit's expiry. However, extensions are not guaranteed and depend on specific circumstances and compliance with South African immigration laws.

Official links & resources

Always confirm requirements with government or embassy sources before applying.

This guide is for information only. Visa policies change without notice. Travel Visa Stack is not an immigration authority. Always verify with official government or embassy sources before making travel plans.