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South Africa visas

South Africa family visa

Visitor visas cover visits to family or friends. A relatives' visa is also listed for temporary residence.

Ways to get a South Africa family visa

  1. Visitor visa for family or friends

    Visa needed

    Travellers who need a visa to visit family or friends have this option.

  2. Relatives' visa

    Visa needed

    Relatives have a temporary residence visa option. The qualifying relationships are not specified.

Who needs it

Travellers who need a visa to visit family or friends can get a visitor visa. A relatives' visa is a separate temporary residence option.

Who doesn't

Eligible citizens can make visa-free visits for 30 or 90 days, depending on citizenship.

What to bring

  • Passport valid for at least one month from arrival.

Good to know

  • Specific rules for spouses, dependants and qualifying relatives are not provided.

Questions

Do I need a family visa for South Africa?

Travellers who need a visa to visit family or friends can get a visitor visa. A relatives' visa is a separate temporary residence option. Eligible citizens can make visa-free visits for 30 or 90 days, depending on citizenship.

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

There are 2 options: Visitor visa for family or friends (a visa from an embassy); Relatives' visa (a visa from an embassy).

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

Passport valid for at least one month from arrival..

Does my passport change whether I need a family 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 family 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 family 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 family 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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