Visa & Immigration

Moving to another country can feel like a monumental task — but every day, millions of people around the world make the leap. With the right preparation, the process becomes far less overwhelming. Just like with any major life decision, success comes from understanding how things are done in your new country. For South Africa, the visa process is one of the most important steps in relocation.

Which visa do you qualify for? How do you begin the application? How long will it take? These questions can seem daunting at first — but OneWaySA.Org is here to assist. We’ve gathered essential information and direct links to help guide you through the journey.

Choosing the Right Visa

The type of visa you need depends entirely on your situation. Four main categories cover most applicants:

• Retirement Visa – for individuals who can prove sufficient retirement income.

• Business Visa – for entrepreneurs and investors establishing or joining a business in South Africa.

• Critical Skills Visa – for those able to demonstrate exceptional skills that are needed in South Africa.

• Student Visa – for individuals enrolled in a South African educational institution.

Other options include:

• Artist Visa – for creatives working in South Africa.

• Research Visa – for academic or professional research collaborations.

• Volunteer Visa – for individuals joining South African nonprofit or community projects.

• Digital Nomad Visa- for individuals working remotely for a non-South African company.

All visa application forms can be downloaded from the South African Embassy website. It is crucial to choose the correct form for your specific visa type before beginning.

Required Documentation

General Requirements

• A machine-readable valid passport with at least 2 blank visa pages, valid for at least 30 days after departure from South Africa.

• Completed application form (DHA-1738) signed by the applicant.

• Non-refundable application fee of $36.00 (money order or cashier’s check).

• Two passport photos.

• Certified/notarized copy of the passport bio page.

• Certified proof of valid U.S. residence status (e.g., Green Card, H1B, J1, L1).

  • Note: B1/B2 visa holders in the U.S. are not eligible and must apply from their home country.

• Proof of tentative travel itinerary (round-trip tickets; do not purchase before visa approval).

• Proof of tentative accommodation.

Financial Requirements

• Proof of financial means via:

  • The most recent 3 months of stamped bank statements (from bank, not notary), OR

  • Written confirmation from a banking institution (including online banks).

• Minimum monthly income requirement:

  • Pension, retirement annuity, or retirement account income of at least R37,000 per month, OR

  • Net worth providing income of at least R37,000 per month.

  • For a research or artist visa an income of at least R3000 per month

Medical & Security Requirements

• Medical report (DHA-811) – physical exam; certificate must not be older than 6 months.

• Yellow fever certificate if traveling through yellow fever belt areas.

• Original FBI background check (full criminal report).

• Police clearance certificate from each country where the applicant lived for 12+ months in the last 5 years after age 18.

  • Certificates must not be older than 6 months at submission.

If Hosted

• If hosted by a South African citizen/permanent resident:

  • Letter of invitation.

  • Certified copy of RSA ID.

  • Proof of residence (utility bill).

• If hosted by a non-South African:

  • Letter of invitation.

  • Certified copy of valid passport bio page and visa.

  • Proof of residence (utility bill).

Processing Time

• Long visas (exceeding 90 days) may take 3–4 weeks to process.

It is strongly recommended to have all documents certified or notarized. While not always explicitly stated on the Department of Home Affairs website, many expats have had their applications rejected simply because their paperwork was not certified. Ensuring this step can save you significant time and frustration.