Student Visa
South Africa

South Africa Student Visa Requirements

The requirements for the study visa are as follows:

• Completed Application Form: Ensure the form is filled out correctly and signed.
• Valid Passport: Your passport must be valid for at least 30 days after your intended departure date.
• Medical Certificate: A recent medical certificate signed by a registered medical practitioner.
• Police Clearance Certificate: A police clearance certificate from countries where you resided for over 12 months in the past five years.
• Yellow Fever Vaccination Certificate: If required for travel to or through yellow fever endemic areas.
• Marriage/Divorce/Death Certificates: Relevant documents to prove marital status or family relationships.
• Parental Consent: Written consent from both parents or a sole guardian, if applicable.
• Adoption Papers: If applicable, proof of adoption.
• Letter of Acceptance: An official letter from the South African educational institution confirming your acceptance and the duration of your studies.
• Institutional Undertaking: A letter from the institution committing to inform the Department of Home Affairs about your registration, withdrawal, or completion of studies.
• Proof of Funds: Evidence of sufficient funds to cover tuition fees, accommodation, and living expenses.
• Visa Fee Payment: Proof of payment of the required visa fee.
• Government Undertaking: A written undertaking from the foreign government to cover your expenses.

Study Permit For Minors In South Africa

Additional Requirements for Minor Students:

• Birth Certificate: An unabridged birth certificate.
• Valid Passport: A valid passport.
• Guardian Information: Proof of address and contact details of the guardian in South Africa, along with a consent letter from the guardian.
• Parental Consent: Written consent from both parents or the legal guardian.
• Medical Insurance: Proof of comprehensive medical insurance valid for the duration of the study period.
• Financial Support: Evidence of sufficient funds to cover tuition fees, accommodation, and living expenses.

Study Visa South Africa Application Form

DHA-1738 Form:

To apply for a student visa, you’ll need to complete the DHA 1738 form. This form can be completed online through VFS or by hand in black ink, depending on the specific instructions provided by the South African embassy or VFS.

Information Required on the DHA-1738 Form:

• Visa Category: Specify that you’re applying for a student visa.
• Personal Details: Provide your full name, date of birth, nationality, and contact information.
• Passport Details: Include your passport number, issue date, and expiry date.
• Address: Provide your current address and contact information.
• Intended Stay: Specify the duration of your intended stay in South Africa.
• Financial Information: Provide proof of sufficient funds to cover tuition fees, accommodation, and living expenses.
• Dependents: If you’re bringing dependents, provide their information.
• Security and Health: Answer any relevant security and health questions on the form.

How To Get A Student Visa For South Africa

You must apply for a South African student visa at the South African embassy in your home country. If the embassy uses VFS Global, you’ll need to pay the visa fee and book an appointment online to submit your application at a VFS centre.

Before submitting your application, gather all required documents. If you’re using VFS, you’ll need to provide biometric information, such as fingerprints and a photo.

Student Visa South Africa Cost

Visa fees vary depending on your country of residence and currency. If you’re applying through a VFS centre, there may be additional service fees. You’ll need to pay the visa fee using a debit or credit card.

Additionally, consider other costs such as document translation, medical examinations, and potential travel expenses.

South Africa Study Visa Processing Time

Processing times for student visas can vary between 30 and 90 days, depending on the specific South African embassy. To avoid delays, it’s crucial to submit your application well in advance of your intended study start date.

How Long Is A Student Visa Valid For In South Africa

A student visa is typically issued for the duration of your primary, secondary, or tertiary studies. For tertiary education, the initial visa is usually valid for one year.

Can I Work With A Study Permit In South Africa

International students on a study visa are generally permitted to work part-time, up to 20 hours per week, during academic terms. However, they are not allowed to work during university or school holidays. To complete internship in South Africa, you have to apply for a South African work visa.

Student Visa Renewal South Africa

To renew your student visa, you’ll need to submit your application through VFS South Africa at least 60 days before your current visa expires.

Renewal Process:

1. Gather Documents: Collect all necessary documents, including your passport, proof of enrollment, and financial records.
2. Pay Fees: Pay the required visa fees.
3. Book Appointment: Schedule an appointment at a VFS centre.
4. Submit Application: Attend your appointment, submit your application, and provide biometric information (fingerprints and photos).

How Much Bank Balance Is Required For A South Africa Study Visa?

You’ll need to provide proof of financial support, typically showing at least ZAR 3,000 per month for the duration of your studies. This can be demonstrated through recent bank statements.