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South Africa visas

South Africa business visa

South Africa issues business visas for temporary residence and visas for attending conferences. Certain international organisation travel documents allow visa-free official business visits.

Ways to get a South Africa business visa

  1. Business visa

    Visa needed

    People seeking temporary residence for business have this visa option. Detailed eligibility rules are not provided.

  2. Visa for attending a conference

    Visa needed

    Travellers attending a conference have this visa option.

  3. Visa-free official business visit

    No visa needed

    Holders of an African Union, Southern African Development Community or United Nations laissez-passer, or an Interpol Passport, qualify for genuine official business visits. The regional community exemption covers its staff travelling on its document.

    Stay
    Up to 90 days.

Who needs it

Travellers seeking temporary residence for business or permission to attend a conference have visa options.

Who doesn't

Holders of the listed international organisation travel documents do not need a visa for genuine official business visits of up to 90 days.

What to bring

  • Passport valid for at least one month from arrival.

Questions

Do I need a business visa for South Africa?

Travellers seeking temporary residence for business or permission to attend a conference have visa options. Holders of the listed international organisation travel documents do not need a visa for genuine official business visits of up to 90 days.

What are the ways to get a business visa for South Africa?

There are 3 options: Business visa (a visa from an embassy); Visa for attending a conference (a visa from an embassy); Visa-free official business visit (no visa at all).

Who can go to South Africa without a business visa?

Holders of an African Union, Southern African Development Community or United Nations laissez-passer, or an Interpol Passport, qualify for genuine official business visits. The regional community exemption covers its staff travelling on its document.

What documents do I need for a South Africa business visa?

Passport valid for at least one month from arrival..

Does my passport change whether I need a business visa for South Africa?

Yes. Rules depend on the country that issued your passport. Open the South Africa visa page and choose your passport for a plain answer.

Can a business visa for South Africa be refused?

Yes. Officials can refuse a visa or entry, even after you apply. Give true answers, bring the documents asked for, and keep proof of your onward trip and money.

Where do I check the latest South Africa business visa rules?

On South Africa's official immigration or foreign ministry website, or at its embassy. Rules change, so check close to your trip.

Can I change my business visa once I am in South Africa?

Often you cannot switch visa type inside the country. Ask the immigration office before you travel if you might need to.

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