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South Africa visas

South Africa transit visa

South Africa issues transit visas. Some official passport and international organisation document holders have transit exemptions.

Ways to get a South Africa transit visa

  1. Transit visa

    Visa needed

    Travellers passing through South Africa may need a transit visa. Detailed eligibility rules are not provided.

  2. Transit exemption for diplomatic, official or service passports

    Transit without a visa

    Citizens of the listed countries holding diplomatic, official or service passports qualify.

    Stay
    Up to 90 days, unless an exception applies.

  3. Transit exemption for regional organisation staff

    Transit without a visa

    Southern African Development Community staff travelling on that organisation's laissez-passer, an official travel document, qualify.

Who doesn't

Listed diplomatic, official or service passport holders have transit exemptions. Staff travelling on a Southern African Development Community laissez-passer also have a transit exemption.

Changing planes

Transit without a visa
Listed diplomatic, official or service passport holders can transit without a visa for up to 90 days, with exceptions noted but not linked to countries. Staff travelling on a Southern African Development Community laissez-passer are also exempt.

What to bring

  • Passport valid for at least one month from arrival.

Good to know

  • Rules for staying in the airport transit area or passing through immigration are not provided.
  • There is no stated general transit-without-visa rule for ordinary passport holders.

Questions

Do I need a transit visa for South Africa?

Listed diplomatic, official or service passport holders have transit exemptions. Staff travelling on a Southern African Development Community laissez-passer also have a transit exemption.

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

There are 3 options: Transit visa (a visa from an embassy); Transit exemption for diplomatic, official or service passports (transit without a visa); Transit exemption for regional organisation staff (transit without a visa).

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

Passport valid for at least one month from arrival..

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