If you’re a Nigerian planning to travel to South Africa, you’ll need to obtain a visa before you can enter the country. While the visa application process can seem daunting at first, it’s important to note that it’s a necessary step to ensure a smooth and hassle-free travel experience. In this blog post, I’ll guide you through the steps of applying for a South African visa, including the requirements, visa application options available, and tips for a successful application. So, let’s get started!
Tourism in South Africa
South Africa is a beautiful country that many tourists like to visit. There are big cities like Johannesburg, Cape Town, and Durban that have great food, art, and museums. People also enjoy going to natural places like Kruger National Park and the Drakensberg Mountains, where they can see animals and enjoy amazing views. There are also places to learn about history, like Robben Island and the Apartheid Museum in Johannesburg. South Africa is a great place to go if you like adventure, culture, and nature.
Tours You Can Indulge while Visiting South Africa
South Africa offers many different types of tours that visitors can enjoy. You can go on a safari tour to see wild animals, a wine tour to taste delicious wines, or a cultural tour to learn about the country’s different tribes and traditions. City tours are also popular in Johannesburg, Cape Town, and Durban, where you can visit landmarks like the Apartheid Museum, Table Mountain, and uShaka Marine World. For those seeking adventure, there are tours for bungee jumping, shark cage diving, and white water rafting. With so many options, there’s something for everyone in South Africa!
Do Nigerians Need A Visa To Visit South Africa?
Yes, as a Nigerian passport holder, you are required to get an approved visa before embarking on a journey to South Africa for tourism. There are two options you can explore, submission at the embassy or applying online. This guide is for those who which to apply for the E-visa by themselves.
APPLY TO GET A SOUTH AFRICAN E-VISA ONLINE
To apply for a visa to visit South Africa, you will need to prepare the following documents:
- International passport with over 6 months validity from intended entry date
- A passport with at least TWO unused pages for entry/departure endorsements
- A completed Form BI-84 (application for a visa)
- Payment of the prescribed fee
- A yellow-fever vaccination certificate (if required)
- Statement and/or documentation confirming the purpose and duration of your visit
- Two colour passport photographs
- A return or onward ticket if you are travelling by air
If you have children (minors) travelling with you or joining you in South Africa, you will need to provide the following additional documents:
- Proof of guardianship or custody or
- Consent from the guardian in the case of an unaccompanied minor
You will also need to show proof of financial means to pay for your living expenses while in South Africa. This can be in the form of:
- Bank statements
- Salary advances
- Undertakings by the host(s) in South Africa
- Bursary
- Medical cover or
- Cash available:
HOW TO APPLY FOR THE SA E-VISA
- Check eligibility: Check if your country is eligible for a South African e-visa. As a Nigerian passport holder, you are eligible to apply online.
- Create an e-Home Affairs account: Go to the South African Department of Home Affairs website and create an e-Home Affairs account.
- Complete the online application form: Log in to your e-Home Affairs account and fill in the online application form with all the required information.
- Upload documents: Upload the required documents as stated above.
- Pay the visa fee: Use a valid dollar card to pay the visa fee, as only dollar cards are allowed for international payments from Nigeria.
- Submit your application: After paying the visa fee, submit your application online. You will receive a confirmation email with a reference number.
- Wait for processing: Your application will be processed by the South African Department of Home Affairs. You can check the status of your application by logging on to your dashboard.
- Receive your e-visa: If your application is approved, you will receive your e-visa via email. Print a copy of the e-visa and keep it with you when you travel to South Africa.
Please note that processing times for e-visas are subject to variation. To ensure a stress-free application process, it’s highly recommended that you apply well in advance of your planned travel dates.
Apply for a South African Visa In person At The Embassy In Lagos/ Abuja/Port Harcourt
If you wish to apply in person, you can choose to submit your documents to any of the VFS centres below:
- Lagos Centre: The Manor, Plot 110 Admiral Ayinla Way Opposite Treasure Garden Estate, Third Roundabout, Lekki Phase I 105102, Lagos.
- Abuja Centre: Mohammadu Buhari Way, Central Business Dis 900103, Abuja.
- Port Harcourt Centre: Phase 2, Vineyard plaza, 88 Woji Rd, GRA 500272, Port Harcourt.
Get Help With Your South African Visa Process
If you prefer not to handle the visa application process yourself, I suggest seeking assistance from Troupe. ng. They can provide expert advice and help you with the visa application process. Additionally, they offer affordable packages to plan your entire trip to South Africa.
Disclaimer!
The information on my blogs is current and correct at the time of publication but may change at any time without notice. Ojulari Balikis is not affiliated with immigration authorities or their application centres and will not be liable for loss or inconvenience arising from their use of this volatile information.
As much as possible, I will update my blogs but always do your own research before using any travel information. You can always ask me questions in the comment, I’ll always respond with recent information.
