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Dr Congo Visa for South Africa Citizens 2026

e-Visa / eTA

South African citizens need an e-Visa for the Democratic Republic of the Congo — apply online before departure; fee from USD 60, processing 2-5 business days.

Guide last updated October 21, 2026. Always verify with official sources before travel.

What you need

  • Passport valid for at least 6 months beyond arrival date
  • Completed online e-Visa application form
  • Digital passport-style photo (white background, taken within last 6 months)
  • Return or onward flight ticket
  • Proof of accommodation (hotel booking or invitation letter)
  • Yellow fever vaccination certificate (mandatory for entry)
  • Travel health insurance recommended
  • Biometrics (fingerprints and photo) captured on arrival at the port of entry

Visa types

  • Tourist e-Visa: single entry, valid 90 days from issue, max stay 30 days, fee from USD 60
  • Business e-Visa: single or multiple entry, valid 90 days, max stay 30 days, requires invitation letter from a Congolese company
  • Transit visa: available for short layovers, max stay 7 days

How to apply online

  • Submit the application through the official DRC e-Visa/embassy portal
  • Upload passport bio page, photo and supporting documents
  • Pay the visa fee online by card
  • Approval (e-Visa authorization letter) typically arrives by email within 48-120 hours
  • Print the approval letter and present it with your passport on arrival; final visa stamp and biometrics are completed at the airport

Fees & processing time

  • Tourist e-Visa fee: approximately USD 60-100 (varies by entry point)
  • No separate service fee when applying directly through the official portal
  • Total estimated cost: USD 60-100
  • Standard processing: 2-5 business days
  • Express processing (24-48 hours) available for an additional fee at some application centres

Tips for South African travelers

  • Apply at least 2 weeks before travel to allow for processing and courier delays
  • Carry a physical copy of your yellow fever certificate — it is checked on arrival
  • Common rejection reasons: blurry photos, passport with less than 6 months validity, missing proof of onward travel
  • Keep a printed copy of your e-Visa approval in addition to the digital copy
  • Extensions must be requested in person at the Direction Générale de Migration office in Kinshasa before the visa expires

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.