Republic of South Africa · study
Study Visa
By Sam Parks · Last reviewed:
Visa for foreign students accepted to study at a registered South African learning institution, with limited part-time work rights.
- Processing time
- Processing times are published by the DHA and VFS Global and vary by case.
- Government fees
- The DHA sets the application fee; confirm the current amount on the official visa page and the VFS Global fee schedule.
- Typical duration
- Duration of the registered course of study.
- Sponsorship required
- No
- Leads to permanent residency
- No
Overview
The Study Visa allows a foreign national to study at a registered South African educational institution. Holders may undertake part-time work of up to 20 hours per week during term. Applicants must provide an official acceptance letter from the institution and proof of medical cover with a registered South African medical scheme. The visa is generally issued for the duration of the course of study.
Eligibility
Typical criteria
- ✓Official letter of acceptance from a registered South African learning institution.Department of Home Affairs (South Africa) ↗
- ✓Proof of medical cover with a medical scheme registered under the Medical Schemes Act.Department of Home Affairs (South Africa) ↗
- ✓Proof of sufficient funds to cover tuition and living costs.Department of Home Affairs (South Africa) ↗
- ✓Meet health and character requirements.Department of Home Affairs (South Africa) ↗
Common blockers
- !Institution not registered in South Africa.Department of Home Affairs (South Africa) ↗
- !No valid medical scheme cover.Department of Home Affairs (South Africa) ↗
- !Insufficient proof of funds.Department of Home Affairs (South Africa) ↗
Typical evidence
- ·Acceptance letter from the registered institution.Department of Home Affairs (South Africa) ↗
- ·Proof of registered medical scheme cover.Department of Home Affairs (South Africa) ↗
- ·Proof of funds and accommodation.Department of Home Affairs (South Africa) ↗
- ·Valid passport, police clearance and medical reports.Department of Home Affairs (South Africa) ↗
Application pathway
Check the route fit
Secure acceptance from a registered South African institution and arrange registered medical scheme cover.
Build the evidence pack
Assemble proof of funds and the required identity, medical and police documents.
Submit through the official channel
Submit the application through VFS Global on behalf of the Department of Home Affairs.
After approval
After arrival, study under the visa conditions and observe the 20-hour-per-week part-time work limit.
Official application links
Where to actually go next
These are the official pages to use for this route. Open them before preparing documents: the forms, fees, appointment systems, and sponsor steps can change without warning.
- Official guidanceApplicantUse official Study Visa route page ↗
Use this official page to confirm requirements and follow the government filing route for Study Visa.
Department of Home Affairs (South Africa) · verified
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Critical Skills Work Visa
Work visa for foreigners holding a skill or qualification on South Africa's official Critical Skills List, issued for up to five years and offering a direct route to permanent residence.
General Work Visa
Employer-tied work visa for foreigners with a confirmed South African job offer whose occupation is not on the Critical Skills List.
Frequently asked questions
Can I work on a South African Study Visa?+
The holder of a study visa may conduct part-time work for a period not exceeding 20 hours per week during the academic term. Any work beyond that requires the appropriate work visa.
Do I need medical insurance for a Study Visa?+
Yes. Applicants must provide proof of cover with a medical scheme registered under the Medical Schemes Act for the duration of the study period. This must be renewed each year of the course where the visa is renewed.
Need tailored advice?
We do not provide legal advice. For an application that depends on your exact circumstances, consult a regulator-listed immigration advisor.
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