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South Africa Visa for Pakistan Citizens 2026

e-Visa / eTA

Pakistani citizens need a visa for South Africa, applied for online and finalized at the VFS Global South Africa Visa Application Centre; fee around ZAR 1,520 (about USD 85), with standard processing of 5-10 working days.

Guide last updated October 20, 2026. Always verify with official sources before travel.

What you need

  • Passport valid for at least 30 days after the intended departure from South Africa, with at least 2 blank pages
  • Completed online visa application (BI-84 form) submitted via the Department of Home Affairs' online visa system
  • Two recent passport-sized photos
  • Confirmed return/onward flight itinerary
  • Proof of accommodation (hotel booking or invitation letter)
  • Bank statements for the last 3 months and proof of sufficient funds
  • Yellow fever vaccination certificate if arriving from or transiting a yellow-fever risk country
  • Biometrics (fingerprints and photo) are mandatory and captured at the VFS centre
  • Travel health insurance is recommended

Visa types

  • Visitor's Visa (Tourism): single or multiple entry, stay up to 90 days
  • Business Visa: for meetings, conferences, or trade, similar validity
  • Transit Visa: for travelers passing through South Africa to a third country

How to apply online

  • Complete the online application on the Department of Home Affairs' online visa portal
  • Upload supporting documents and pay the processing fee online where available
  • Book a biometrics appointment at VFS Global in Islamabad or Karachi to submit the printed application and original documents
  • Track the application status online; collect the passport once the decision is made or opt for courier delivery

Fees & processing time

  • Visa fee: ZAR 1,520 (about USD 85), payable online or at the VFS centre
  • VFS service fee: approximately PKR 6,000-8,000
  • Standard processing: 5-10 working days from biometrics submission
  • No guaranteed express service; allow extra time during peak travel seasons

Tips for Pakistan travelers

  • Apply at least 4-6 weeks before travel to allow for processing and any requests for additional documents
  • Common rejection reasons: insufficient funds, unclear accommodation details, or a missing yellow fever certificate where applicable
  • Keep digital and printed copies of the online application reference number
  • A genuine invitation letter (for business/family visits) strengthens the application
  • Extensions can be requested at a Home Affairs office inside South Africa before the visa expires

Official links & resources

Always confirm requirements with government or embassy sources before applying.

This guide is for information only. Visa policies change without notice. Travel Visa Stack is not an immigration authority. Always verify with official government or embassy sources before making travel plans.