Are you a Nigerian planning to visit South Africa for business or leisure? Navigating the visa process can be challenging without the right information. In this blog post, we’ll break down the South African visa application process, costs, and essential tips to make your journey smoother.
Visa Categories and Exemptions
Before diving into the application details, it’s crucial to know the various visa categories and exemptions. Certain individuals, such as South African passport holders and visitors from the UK, are exempt from visa requirements. However, for most Nigerian passport holders, a visitor’s visa is necessary.
South African Visa Types and Fees in Nigeria (Updated June 9, 2023)
- Short-term Visitor/Holiday Visa:
- Visa Application Fee: 7,071 NGN
- Service Charge: 25,200 NGN
- Critical Skill Work Visa/Permit:
- Visa Application Fee: 25,288 NGN
- Service Charge: 25,200 NGN
- Study Visa:
- Visa Application Fee: 7,071 NGN
- Service Charge: 25,200 NGN
- General Work Visa/Permit:
- Visa Application Fee: 25,288 NGN
- Service Charge: 25,200 NGN
- Relative Visa/Permit:
- Visa Application Fee: 7,071 NGN
- Service Charge: 25,200 NGN
- Business Visa/Permit:
- Visa Application Fee: 25,288 NGN
- Service Charge: 25,200 NGN
- Retirement Visa/Permit:
- Visa Application Fee: 7,071 NGN
- Service Charge: 25,200 NGN
Important Tips for Nigerian Applicants
Here are crucial tips to streamline your visa application process:
- Payment Locations: Payments must be made in Naira at the Bank Implant inside VFS Application Centers.
- Proof of Payment: Always attach proof of payment to avoid application rejection.
- Payment Receipt: Keep a copy of your payment receipt for reference.
- Application Changes: Fees are non-refundable, so ensure accuracy before submission.
- Service Fee Variations: Note that service fees differ for VFS Port Harcourt applicants.
Required Documents for South Africa Visa Application
Prepare the following documents for a successful application:
- Completed visa application form BI-84.
- Visa application fee payment receipt.
- Undertaking from a South African host.
- Bank statement and financial statements.
- Valid international passport (minimum 30 days beyond visa expiration).
- Introduction/recommendation letter from an employer.
- Marriage certificate (if applicable) and notice of stay duration.
- Medical cover and travel itinerary with a return ticket.
- Two colored passport photographs and yellow fever vaccination card.
South Africa Visa Types
Understanding the visa types is crucial to avoid application errors. The main categories include:
- Visitor’s Visa: For short-term visits or vacations (valid for up to 90 days).
- Long Stay Visitor Visa: For stays between 3 months and 3 years.
- Business Visa: For individuals traveling for business (validity: 3 to 5 years).
Application Guidelines
To initiate your application, visit a VFS Global office in Lagos, Port Harcourt, or Abuja. Submit your application in person, noting the daily application limits for each center. Processing usually takes a minimum of 6 working days.
VFS Global Offices in Nigeria
- Lagos:
- Address: Plot 110, Admiral Ayinla Way, 3rd Roundabout, Lekki Phase I.
- Contact: +234 815 018 8800
- Opening Hours: Monday to Friday – 08:00 to 15:00
- Abuja:
- Address: No. 38, Lobito Crescent, Wuse 2.
- Contact: +234 81 5018 8800
- Submission Timings: Monday to Friday – 08:00 to 15:00
- Port Harcourt:
- Address: Vineyard Shopping Centre, 88 Woji Road, GRA.
- Contact: +234 81 5018 8800
- Submission Times: Monday to Friday – 08:00 to 15:00
Stay informed, plan ahead, and make your South African journey a hassle-free experience. Safe travels!