Everything you need to know about visas before travelling
We give you some answers and information you’ll need to know when applying for a visa
South African passport holders can travel visa-free to 106 countries and territories, including Ireland, Réunion, Mauritius, Russia, Brazil and many African countries, such as Namibia, Zambia, Zimbabwe and Malawi.
But if you plan to travel to the UK, the USA, Australia or anywhere in the European Union, you will need to get a visa.
Do you feel anxious about the visa requirements and application process? We answer some SA travellers’ most frequently asked questions about visas.
How do I know if I need a visa?
There are various ways to determine if you need a visa ahead of a trip. The best way is to visit the embassy website of the country in question.
According to a customer experience team leader at Flight Centre South Africa, Lynette Machiri, there are also websites such as www.iatatravelcentre.com, that will guide you regarding the different visa types and who needs them, how to apply and how to get in touch with the relevant embassy or consulate.
“Alternatively, save yourself the trouble of uncovering the information by booking your holiday through a travel agency. All travel agents are up to date with the necessary visa requirements to ensure stress-free, seamless travel anywhere in the world,” Machiri said.
Where can I apply for a visa?
The embassy’s website, the official government website or a trusted travel agency will supply you with up-to-date information on where and how to apply for a visa.
In most cases, you will find an embassy and/or consulate for your destination country in SA’s major cities (specifically Cape Town, Joburg and Durban). You may need to travel to another city for a visa appointment if there is no embassy or visa processing centre in your area.
Can I apply for a visa online, or must I visit the embassy?
Some embassies allow you to complete and submit your visa application form online. However, you’ll usually have to visit a consulate or visa processing centre in person for your visa interview and/or to capture your biometric data.
Certain countries, for example, Mozambique, have online eVisa portals where everything is processed electronically, but the visa is paid for when you arrive in the country.
I’m a dual passport holder, so which passport do I travel on?
It’s vital to travel with both valid passports on you.
“Since many non-South African passports offer more visa-free travel options for travellers, it’s usually best to exit SA and enter your destination country using your non-South African passport. However, you’ll need to show your SA passport to clear customs when returning home,” Machiri advised.
What documents will I need when applying for a visa?
The documents required for a visa application vary according to your destination. So, you must check the information from the embassy or visa processing centre before your appointment.
You might require the following:
• your passport (with at least two or three blank visa pages, depending on your destination);
• a completed and signed visa application form (obtained via the embassy website);
• passport photos that meet the destination country’s requirements;
• information regarding travel purposes, ie holiday, work, study, and more;
• proof of travel and accommodation, such as flight details, accommodation bookings and more;
• proof of funds, such as three months’ bank statements;
• a letter of invitation if staying with a friend or relative;
• proof of employment;
• proof of travel insurance and the total value of the cover.
How long does it take to get a visa?
Most visa applications take 15 to 30 days. However, processing times may be longer if applying during peak periods. It’s always best to apply for your visa at least six weeks in advance to account for any delays.
“It is important to check visa application timeframes with the embassy or visa processing centre for the country you plan to visit because they will guide you on when you should apply for your visa,” said Machiri.
How much does a visa cost?
The cost differs based on your destination country, but you’re generally looking at an application fee between R1,500 and R3,000.
Here’s a brief overview of what to expect, bearing in mind the fluctuations of foreign exchange:
• Schengen visa: €80 (equivalent to about R1 695).
• UK visa: £104 (equivalent to about R2 533).
• US visa: $160 (equivalent to about R3 164).
• Australian visa: AUD150 (equivalent to about R1 930).
How long is a visa valid?
Short-stay tourist visas are usually valid for three to six months. Some are single-entry visas, whereas others allow for multiple entries during that period, such as the UK short-term visitor visa.
What should I do if my visa application gets rejected?
In the event of a visa refusal, most embassies will provide contact details you can use if you’d like to dispute the decision. The embassy will also usually supply a reason for the rejection.
Common reasons for visa refusal:
• An incomplete application form.
• Missing travel documents.
• Incomplete travel details.
• Passport issues.
• Criminal history.
• Unclear travel purpose.
Will my application fee be refunded if my visa was refused?
No. The visa application fee is non-refundable. However, you may be covered for visa refusal if you have travel insurance. Check your policy details for terms and conditions in this regard.
Which Schengen visa do I need if visiting more than one Schengen state?
The Schengen visa is for travel in Europe. The type of Schengen visa you should apply for when embarking on a multi-destination trip depends on the country of your lengthiest stay.
Machiri explained that if you are visiting Spain, France and Italy but spending a week in Italy and only three days in Spain and France, you need to apply for an Italian Schengen visa. If you are staying in each country for an equal amount of time, you need to apply for a Schengen visa for the country of your first port of entry.
What’s the difference between airside and landside transit?
Airside transit is the movement of passengers connecting from one flight to another without leaving the international transit area. In other words, passengers who are in airside transit do not go through immigration or customs and do not leave the secure area of the airport.
Landside transit refers to the movement of passengers connecting from one flight to another but who must go through immigration and customs to do so. It is typically used by passengers connecting between international and domestic flights or vice versa.
Landside transit passengers must pass through border control, pick up their baggage, and then check it in for their next flight before passing through security to access the departure gate for their next flight.
In some cases, you won’t require a transit visa for airside transit, but in some countries, such as the UK and the USA (unless eligible for the Visa Waiver Program), you’ll require a transit visa for both types of transit.
What is travel ‘double dipping’, and what should you look out for?
Double dipping when travelling is when you transition twice while en route to your destination. Flights incorporating more than one layover are often significantly cheaper than those with just one layover or direct flights.
Machiri further said that many travellers on an SA passport don’t realise ‘double dipping’ can be more costly and inconvenient in the long run. That’s because travellers usually require a visa for both transits. As such, it’s crucial to do the research before booking those cheaper flights.
