Skip to main content

Bangladesh Visa for South Africa Citizens 2026

Visa Required

South African citizens need a visa to enter Bangladesh, applied for through the High Commission of Bangladesh in Pretoria or an authorised visa centre; the tourist visa fee is around USD 50 and processing takes 5-7 working days.

Guide last updated September 17, 2026. Always verify with official sources before travel.

What you need

  • Passport valid for at least 6 months from the date of entry, with at least 2 blank pages
  • Completed Bangladesh visa application form, available from the High Commission or authorised visa centre
  • Bank statement covering the last 3-6 months showing sufficient funds
  • Confirmed return flight ticket and hotel booking or an invitation letter from a host in Bangladesh
  • Two recent passport-style photos, 35x45mm, white background
  • Biometrics: fingerprints collected in person during submission
  • Travel health insurance: recommended, not a strict legal requirement

Visa types

  • Tourist visa - single entry, up to 30 days, approximately USD 50
  • Business visa - single or multiple entry, up to 90 days, requires an invitation letter from a Bangladeshi company, approximately USD 50-80
  • Official/diplomatic visa - for government business only

How to apply

  • Submit the application, photos and supporting documents at the High Commission of Bangladesh in Pretoria or the nearest authorised visa centre
  • Pay the visa fee at submission, cash or card depending on the centre
  • Attend a short interview if requested by the visa officer
  • Standard processing takes 5-7 working days from submission
  • Collect the passport with the visa sticker in person or via courier return

Fees & processing time

  • Tourist visa fee: approximately USD 50
  • Business visa fee: approximately USD 50-80
  • Visa centre service fee, if applicable: around ZAR 300
  • Standard processing: 5-7 working days
  • Express processing: sometimes available for an additional fee, reducing turnaround to 2-3 working days

Tips for South Africa travelers

  • Apply at least 3 weeks before travel to allow for standard processing plus courier time
  • Common rejection reasons: incomplete bank statements and unclear purpose-of-visit documentation
  • Confirm whether your application is processed directly by the High Commission or through an outsourcing partner, as this affects submission location
  • Carry printed copies of your hotel booking and return ticket to the interview, if one is required
  • Extensions inside Bangladesh are handled by the Department of Immigration and Passports in Dhaka 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.