If you want to study in South Africa, you must first apply for a student visa.
The overall cost of applying for a student visa in South Africa is around R 1,775 ($107.00).
There’s no need to be concerned about your visa expiring; all South African student visas are valid for the duration of your study.
The visa application process in South Africa
Confirm your enrollment at a university recognized by the Department of Higher Education.
Download and fill out the BI-1738 form.
Make an appointment with your home country’s South African embassy, mission, or consulate.
Present the required documentation and pay the application cost.
Wait for a response to your application.
Visas for dependents of international students
Only your spouse and dependent children are permitted to accompany you to South Africa. They must apply for an accompanying spouse or child visa, which will allow them to stay for up to three years. It does not, however, grant them the right to work or study in the country.
If you intend to bring family members with you, bring documentation of custody or guardianship to your visa application meeting.
Student visa requirements in South Africa
It is critical that you bring all required documentation to your visa application meeting. The following are the resources you will be expected to bring to your meeting:
A valid passport that is valid for at least 30 days after the end of your course.
BI-1738 form completed
An official letter of admission from your college or university, printed on letterhead
Funds to cover the visa application fee
Two more color passport photographs
A certificate of immunization (if required)
A cover letter outlining the reason for and duration of your visit
Details about your arrival and departing flights, as well as your return ticket
Evidence of sufficient financial resources
Documents pertaining to health insurance policies
Medical documentation
How long does it take to apply for a South African study permit?
A student visa application submitted in South Africa takes between 4 and 8 weeks to process.
Can I apply for my own study permit?
Yes, you can apply for it. No, there is no advantage to using an agent. The only thing an agent can do is ensure you have all of the necessary papers.
In South Africa, how long does a study permit last?
Validity of a South African student visa
The study permit will be valid for the duration of the learner’s accepted degree or course of study. The tenure of primary schools should not exceed 8 years, while secondary schools should not surpass 6 years.
Is it possible for a student to seek for permanent residence in South Africa?
No matter how long you stay in South Africa on a student visa, you will never be eligible for permanent residency. Instead, you must first modify your visa status to one that allows you to qualify for residency, such as a work or business visa.
