South Africa Visitor Visa for Nigerians: Requirements, Steps & Costs (2025)

Visiting South Africa from Nigeria for a vacation or holiday requires a visitor visa, which allows you to visit and stay in the country for at least 30 days.

The visitor visa is issued by the South Africa Department of Home Affairs (SA DHA) directly or through the South African High Commission in Abuja or the South African Consulate General in Lagos.

Nigerians planning a vacation trip to South Africa can apply for the visitor visa online using a service like Flightpadi or directly on the SA DHA online portal.

Alternatively, physical application can be done through VFS Global in Nigeria.

The base cost of applying for a South African visitor visa set by the Department of Home Affairs is R425.00 ($23.33 or ₦37,321.62) and DOES NOT include additional costs like service fees if you apply through a visa processing service.

Can Nigerians visit South Africa without a visa?

No, Nigerians can’t visit South Africa without a visa as of January 2025, even though some online resources say they can. Nigerians who wish to visit South Africa on vacation or holiday must apply for a visa beforehand.

What type of visa is needed for a vacation in South Africa from Nigeria?

Nigerian tourists need a South African visitor visa to go on vacation in South Africa.

The South African Visitor’s Visa is an official document issued by the South African government that permits foreign nationals, including Nigerians, to enter and temporarily stay in South Africa for specific non-work-related purposes and activities like:

• Tourism, sightseeing, or holidaying.
• Visiting friends or relatives.
• Attending short-term, non-formal courses or workshops.
• Business meetings or conferences (though a specific business visa might be required for extensive business activities).

The standard visitor visa allows for stays up to 90 days, though shorter durations can be specified. Extensions might be possible under certain conditions but are subject to immigration regulations.

What are the requirements for a South African visitor visa from Nigeria?

Here are the necessary documents you must provide for your South African Visitor Visa application from Nigeria:

• A valid Nigerian passport with at least two blank pages and valid for 30 days beyond your departure.
• Completed and signed visa application form (Form DHA-eP1 or DHA-84).
• Proof of sufficient funds (recent bank statements).
• Proof of accommodation in South Africa.
• Explanation of purpose and duration of visit of a vacation itinerary
• Return or onward ticket.
• Yellow Fever Vaccination Certificate.
• Proof of visa application fee payment.

Additional requirements that might apply depending on your specific circumstances include:

• Two recent passport-sized photographs (for form DHA-84).
• Additional documents for minors (birth certificates, parental consent).
• Proof of legal status in Nigeria for non-Nigerian residents.

Applying for a South African visitor visa requires a machine-readable passport with sufficient validity and blank pages, along with completed DHA-eP1 or DHA-84 forms and three months of certified bank statements to prove financial stability.

Your application must include hotel reservations, a self-introduction letter outlining your vacation plans, a return ticket, and a valid yellow fever vaccination certificate, which is mandatory for travelers from Nigeria.

Additional documents are required for special circumstances: birth certificates and consent letters for traveling with minors, proof of legal residency for non-Nigerian applicants, and the applicable visa fee must be paid to complete the process.

Where to find the South African visitor visa application form?

When you’re ready to apply for a South African visitor visa from Nigeria, there are two distinct forms you might need, depending on your application method:

• DHA-eP1 Form for eVisa: This form can be found on the South African Department of Home Affairs (DHA) portal, and you can fill it out directly online.
• DHA-84 Form for Traditional Application: This form can be downloaded from the VFS Global website. VFS Global manages visa applications in many countries, including Nigeria, for South Africa.

How much bank balance is required for a South Africa tourist visa?

The South African authorities do not explicitly set a minimum bank balance required for a tourist visa.

However, the ideal amount suggested for a South African tourist visa is R3,000.00 ($164.65 or ₦263,446.76) per month of your intended stay.

So, your balance should be able to show that you have more than that as a minimum closing balance for at least three months to demonstrate financial stability and the ability to support yourself during your visit.

If you plan to stay for up to three months, you’d ideally show around R9,000.00 ($493.96 or ₦790,340.29) or more in your account to cover the duration of your stay.

Note that if someone else is sponsoring your vacation, it’s their bank balance that should reflect this amount. They would need to provide a sponsorship letter along with their bank statements showing they have sufficient funds to support you.

The key is not just having this amount at one point but showing consistency over time, which is why three months of bank statements are typically required. A single large deposit might not be as convincing as regular income or savings.

How to get proof of accommodation for South African visitor visa?

For a South African visitor visa, proof of accommodation must come directly from the hotel or vacation home on Airbnb. Bookings from third-party sites like Booking.com or Hotels.com are not accepted.

Here’s how to secure verifiable accommodation proof for your visa application:

1. Search for hotels in any of the cities in South Africa you want to visit, like Cape Town, Johannesburg, Durban, Pretoria, or Port Elizabeth.
2. Visit the official websites of hotels and navigate to their booking section to make a direct reservation.

After booking, you’ll receive a confirmation email from the hotel, which should include your name, the hotel’s name and address, reservation dates, and a confirmation number. This email confirmation serves as your proof of accommodation; print or save it for your visa application.

If you opt for an Airbnb stay, book directly through the platform and print out the receipt or booking confirmation.

Additionally, you can ask your host to provide a letter stating they are hosting you, including details like their address, your name, and the duration of your stay. This letter, along with the Airbnb confirmation, can be used as proof of accommodation.

How to write SA visitor visa purpose of visit letter?

To write a purpose of visit letter for your South African visitor visa, you need to include your personal details, your citizenship, and your Nigerian passport number. Also include your phone number and personal address.

Next, clearly state the reason for your visit, which could be

• tourism.
• visiting family.
• attending events.
• other short-term activities.

Mention the duration of your stay, including specific dates if possible, and detail your accommodation plans, whether it’s a hotel or staying with someone.

Then, explain how you will finance your trip, and importantly, assure the visa officer of your intention to return to your home country by mentioning ties like employment or family.

Writing this letter is straightforward, and to make it easier, we’ve created a template you can simply copy, paste, and edit to match your specific circumstances. Here’s the template:

[Your Name]
[Your Address]
[City, State, Zip Code]
[Email Address]
[Phone Number]
[Date]

The Consular Officer
South African Embassy/Consulate
[Address of the Embassy/Consulate]

Subject: Application for Visitor Visa - [Your Name]

Dear Sir/Madam,

I, [Your Name], a citizen of Nigeria with passport number [Your Passport Number], am applying for a visitor visa to South Africa. The purpose of my visit is [state your purpose, e.g., tourism, visiting family, attending an event]. I plan to visit [list specific places or events if known].

I intend to stay for [duration, e.g., 21 days], from [Start Date] to [End Date]. During my stay, I will be accommodated at [Hotel Name/Host's Name and Address]. My travel plans include [brief itinerary or mention of travel within SA if known].

I will fund this visit through [mention source, e.g., personal savings, sponsorship], as demonstrated by the attached bank statements. I am committed to returning to Nigeria after my visit, as I have [mention ties like job, family, property].

Thank you for considering my application. Should you require any further information, please contact me at [Your Phone Number] or [Your Email Address]. I look forward to your positive response.

Sincerely,

[Your Signature if Physical]
[Your Name]

Attachments:
- Bank Statements
- Hotel Bookings/Invitation Letter

For physical submission, this letter is known as the self-introduction letter. If you’re applying online, this is what you would upload under the document section for Purpose and Duration of Visit.

Services like Flightpadi automate the writing of such letters within the platform, making the process easier for you.

How to get verifiable return ticket for SA visitor visa application?

There are two ways to get a verifiable return ticket for your South African visitor visa application:

• Booking the actual flight with the airline.
• Getting a flight reservation valid for up to 72 hours.

You can get a verifiable ticket by booking your flight directly with an airline and paying the full amount. This ensures you have a legitimate, verifiable ticket. However, if you don’t want to risk losing the money should your visa be rejected, you can get a flight reservation.

A flight reservation is a booking that holds your seat without requiring full payment. It includes a Passenger Name Record (PNR) number that can be verified on the airline’s website, proving your intention to travel. Most flight reservations are valid for up to 72 hours.

Most people also use dummy tickets, which are fake flight itineraries created by online services. It might include a flight number and PNR but isn’t backed by a real booking. It’s not advisable due to the risk of visa rejection if discovered, though sometimes embassies might overlook it.

The best option for SA visitor visa applications is to book the flight in advance. If the visa is rejected, you can keep the ticket open for up to a year with some airlines, or you can book a fully refundable ticket with airlines like Ethiopian Airlines. This way, you secure a verifiable return ticket while minimizing financial risk.

How to get a yellow fever certificate to visit SA?

Nigerians require a yellow fever certificate to visit South Africa, and obtaining this card is straightforward. You can get your yellow fever certificate by applying online or any Port Health Services Office near you.

To apply for a Yellow Fever Card through the Yellow Card Nigeria portal, sign up for the vaccination and pay the required fee of N2,000 via REMITA, either online or at any bank. After payment, print the confirmation and take it to the nearest Port Health Services Office along with your passport biodata page to get vaccinated and receive your certificate.

Alternatively, you can visit any Port Health Services office directly to get vaccinated and obtain your yellow fever certificate on the spot. This method bypasses the online application but still requires payment and presentation of your passport.

Both methods ensure you receive your Yellow Fever Certificate, which is essential for entry into South Africa from Nigeria.

How to apply for South Africa visitor Visa from Nigeria?

Once you’ve gotten all the requirements, you can now go ahead and apply for your South African visitor visa using one of the three options below:

• applying for an eVisa via Flightpadi
• applying for an eVisa on SA DHA portal
• applying for the visitor visa via VFS

Let’s go through each option individually to help you understand the steps.

How to apply for South Africa visitor eVisa on Flightpadi?

Applying for your South African visitor visa on Flightpadi is a straightforward process. To begin, create your account on the Flightpadi web app and go to the visa assistance section.

Here’s what you’ll need to do:

• Select South Africa from the list
• Go through requirements and complete the pre-application form
• Pay the government fee

A Flightpadi assistant will then be assigned to guide you through uploading your documents. If you’re missing any required paperwork, you can either obtain it on your own or purchase it through the Padi Store.

The best part? You only pay Flightpadi’s service fee if your visa is approved.

How to apply for tourist eVisa on South Africa DHA portal?

The South African Department of Home Affairs also has a portal where you can apply for your visitor visa.

1. Visit the DHA portal and create an account.
2. Click on “Start Application” and complete the DHA-eP1 form, your biodata to reason for visit, financial declaration, and contact information (about 18 sections in total).
3. Upload and submit the required documents, which include your flight itinerary, purpose of visit letter, bank statement, passport, and yellow fever certificate.
4. Proceed to pay the eVisa visa fee and then wait for your visa to get approved or rejected.

Note that the Home Affairs may contact you if you need to reupload any document or if you would require a physical interview.

How to apply for South Africa Visitor visa via VFS?

To apply for a South African visitor visa through VFS Global, Nigerians need to arrange their documents meticulously to ensure a smooth application process. Here are some essential documents:

• Valid Passport with 30+ days validity and two blank pages.
• Completed DHA-84 Form.
• Photos (two, recent).
• Proof of Financial Means.
• Travel Itinerary.
• Accommodation Proof (hotel or invitation).
• Yellow Fever Certificate.

For a complete list of documents, refer to the VFS Global requirements document.

After preparing your documents, you’ll need to complete the DHA-84 form, available online or at VFS centers. Once filled, book an appointment through the VFS Global website. At booking, you’ll pay the visa fee and the VFS service fee.

With your appointment set, attend the VFS center at the scheduled time to submit your application and biometric data if required. After submission, you’ll wait for the visa decision.

What is the cost of a South African tourist visa for Nigerian applicants?

The cost for applying for a South African visa through Flightpadi’s full documentation and assistance service is ₦500,000 with a 40% down payment to cover the visa fee, which is R425.00 ($23.33 or ₦37,321.62) and documentation arrangement or sourcing, and the balance payable only when the visa is approved. This price reflects the extensive support and guarantees provided:

• Document Preparation: Flightpadi handles all document collection, including writing your introduction letter and proof of accommodation.
• Compliance with Requirements: They ensure your application fully meets South African visa standards.
• Reapplication Assistance: In case of rejection, support for a second application is provided.

The cost of the South African tourist visa for Nigerians is R425.00 ($23.33 or ₦37,321.62) if you’re applying directly on the SA DHA website. However, you’ll handle your application submission all by yourself without any assistance.

The price cost of applying through VFS Global is between ₦50,000 and ₦100,000, which includes the visa fee of R425.00 ($23.33 or ₦37,321.62) set by the South African government and the VFS service fee, which varies by location (e.g., ₦29,400 in Lagos/Abuja, ₦49,400 in Port Harcourt).

How long does it take to process a South African visitor visa?

The processing time for SA visitor visa applications through Flightpadi takes anywhere between 2 and 15 working days. The processing time allows for your assigned Padi assistant to properly arrange and submit your application without you doing any of the bulk work.

The processing time for applications through the South African Department of Home Affairs website takes anywhere between 2 weeks and 4 weeks. It may be even more if you encounter any issue with your application or are required to show up for a physical interview.

The processing time for applications through VFS generally takes between 6 and 15 working days, though this can vary.

What next after getting approved South African tourist eVisa?

The next step after your South African tourist eVisa is approved, you can finally turn your travel dreams into concrete plans. Start by booking your flights and securing your accommodation if you haven’t already done so. If you made flexible hotel bookings while awaiting visa approval, now is the time to confirm those reservations.

South Africa offers some incredible attractions you won’t want to miss:

• Table Mountain in Cape Town, where the cable car ride to the summit rewards you with stunning panoramic views of the city and ocean
• Kruger National Park, home to the “Big Five” and countless other wildlife species in their natural habitat
• Robben Island, the historic prison-turned-museum that shaped South Africa’s journey to democracy

With these key destinations in mind, take time to map out a realistic schedule. Remember that South Africa is larger than many visitors expect, so factor in travel time between destinations and leave some free days for spontaneous adventures.

What if your South Africa visitor visa is rejected?

If your South African visitor visa is rejected, the first thing to do is understand why. Upon rejection, you should receive a notification on the Flightpadi dashboard, the South African Department of Home Affairs (DHA), or through VFS Global explaining why your application was not successful.

Possible reasons could include:

• Insufficient documentation
• Inadequate proof of financial means
• Doubts about the purpose of your visit
• Previous immigration violations

You can better understand the issue by carefully reviewing the letter that came with the rejection. This document will outline specific reasons for the rejection, helping you pinpoint what went wrong.

Once you understand the issue, you have several options:

• Appeal the Decision
• Reapply after waiting a while

How to appeal my SA visitor visa rejection?

There’s no formal appeal process, but you can write a letter addressing the reasons for rejection, providing new evidence or explanations, and requesting reconsideration. This letter should be sent to the South African Embassy or Consulate where you applied.

How to reapply for SA visitor visa after a waiting period?

If an appeal isn’t viable or if significant changes are needed, you might choose to reapply. This involves correcting all previously identified issues, gathering or improving documentation, and ensuring your application aligns with the visa requirements more effectively.

Reapplication entails rectifying past mistakes. This could mean:

• providing more detailed bank statements
• submitting a clearer travel itinerary
• providing better proof of ties to Nigeria to show your intent to return after your visit.

It would make sense for you to book a consultation with a visa consultant on Flightpadi before reapplying for your South African visitor visa. Such professional guidance can help reduce the chances of getting rejected again by offering tailored advice on how to strengthen your visa application.

What other countries to visit if an SA visitor visa is rejected?

If your South African visitor visa is rejected, there are several other African destinations and beyond that you can consider visiting, many of which offer visa-free or visa-on-arrival entry for Nigerian passport holders. Here are some alternatives:

• Ghana: No visa required for up to 90 days, making it a great cultural and historical destination, especially for visiting places like Accra or Cape Coast.
• Kenya: Offers an e-Visa system, which is convenient for those interested in the Maasai Mara or Kenyan beaches.
• Ethiopia: Provides visa on arrival or an e-Visa for tourism, with attractions like Lalibela’s rock-hewn churches and the historical city of Addis Ababa.
• Seychelles: No visa is needed for Nigerian visitors for up to 30 days, perfect for a tropical getaway with its stunning beaches and marine life.
• Mauritius: Visa-free for up to 60 days, offering beautiful beaches, waterfalls, and a diverse cultural scene.
• Maldives: Known for its luxury resorts and marine biodiversity, Nigerian visitors can get a visa on arrival for 30 days.
• Tanzania: Offers visa on arrival, known for the Serengeti and Zanzibar’s beaches.

These destinations offer a variety of experiences from wildlife safaris, cultural heritage, to beach vacations, ensuring that a visa rejection from South Africa does not limit your travel options. Always check the latest visa policies as they can change, and consider the purpose of your travel when selecting destinations.