For foreign nationals enrolled in full-time study at a South African educational institution. Requires an acceptance letter from the institution.
Two (2) recent colour passport-sized photographs (35mm x 45mm) on a white or light background. Applicant's name must be written on the back of each photograph.
Tip: Photos must be recent (within 6 months). White background, no glasses, neutral expression. Write your full name on the back.
Must be less than 6 months old
Duly completed and signed application form. BI-84 (Form 11) for visitor/short-term visas, or DHA-1738 (Form 8) for temporary residence visas, or DHA-947 (Form 18) for permanent residence. Forms are completed online through the VFS Global portal (visa.vfsglobal.com/zaf/en/dha). You must create a VFS account, fill the form digitally, pay the VFS service fee (R1,550), then download and print the completed form for your in-person submission appointment.
Tip: Complete the form online at ehome.dha.gov.za where available. Double-check every field before signing.
Official acceptance/admission letter from a registered South African educational institution, signed by the Registrar or Principal. Must confirm the course name, duration, start/end dates, and tuition fees.
Tip: Ensure the institution is registered with the Department of Higher Education and Training (DHET).
Up-to-date three (3) months bank statements showing sufficient funds for tuition, accommodation, and living expenses for the full duration of studies.
Tip: Funds should cover: tuition fees + R5,000-R8,000/month living expenses for the study period.
Must be less than 3 months old
Medical examination report on prescribed form BI-811 completed, signed, stamped, and dated by a registered medical practitioner regarding the applicant's general state of health.
Tip: Must be completed by a registered medical practitioner. The specific BI-811 form is required.
Must be less than 6 months old
Radiological report (chest X-ray) on the prescribed form. Not required for children under the age of 12 years or pregnant women.
Must be less than 6 months old
Proof of medical insurance/medical aid scheme registered in South Africa, covering the full duration of studies. A mere application for insurance is NOT accepted. Travel insurance will NOT be accepted.
Tip: Must be a confirmation/insurance certificate, not just an application. Travel insurance is not sufficient.
Police clearance certificate issued by the police or security authority in each country where the applicant has resided for 12 months or longer after attaining the age of 18 years.
Tip: Request early as some countries take weeks. Must be original, not a copy.
Must be less than 6 months old
Proof of air tickets (provisional or confirmed). One-way ticket is accepted for study visas.
Certified copies of previous academic qualifications and transcripts supporting admission to the South African institution.
Required if the applicant has travelled from, or intends travelling from or transiting through, a yellow fever endemic area. Must be the original International Certificate of Vaccination or Prophylaxis (ICVP).
Tip: Check the WHO list of yellow fever endemic countries. The certificate is valid for life after a 10-day activation period.
If sponsored: an undertaking to the learning institution for payment of all fees and accommodation from a bursary scheme, scholarship, or parents/guardian. Must include sponsor's ID copy, bank statements, and a notarized letter of support.
Tip: Required if someone else is funding your studies. The sponsor must demonstrate financial ability.
For applicants under 18: attested unabridged birth certificate and proof of consent (signed and dated letter in English) from both parents, or from the parent/legal guardian with a court order granting full or specific parental responsibilities.
Tip: If one parent is absent, provide a court order, death certificate, or affidavit explaining.
Not a law firm. This platform provides AI-powered guidance, not legal advice. For complex cases, consult a registered immigration practitioner.