South Africa Study Visa

One of the great things about a student visa is the opportunity to experience a different culture while furthering your education.
Visas to study in South Africa can be divided into two types:

Minors of school-going age accompanying parents or guardians in South Africa

Tertiary students in South Africa to complete or add to their studies at a university, college, or other suitable higher learning institutions

The type of academic institution that allows international students to study in South Africa must meet the requirements of the South African Immigration Regulations

An institution of higher education established in terms of the Higher Education Act, 1997 (Act No. 101 of 1997)

A college established in terms of the Further Education and Training Colleges Act, 2006(Act No. 16 of 2006) but does not include:

• a school offering further education and training programmes under the South African Schools Act, 1996 (Act No. 84 of 1996)
• (ii) a college under the authority of a government department other than the Department of Higher Education and Training
• a school contemplated in section 1 of the South African Schools Act, 1996 (Act No. 84 of 1996)

In simple terms, Student Visa holders can study at an institution approved by the Department of Higher Education and Training that includes schools and higher learning institutions.

All Required Application Forms can be found at our Immigration Resources

You need the following forms to apply for a South Africa Study Visa:

• The usual personal documentation is required for all types of visas, not just student visas
• Temporary visa application forms
• An official acceptance letter from the learning institution
• A police clearance certificate for students over the age of 18
• Medical insurance that is valid for the duration of your stay in South Africa. An important requirement is that medical insurance must be from a registered South African medical insurance provider. Minor children are covered by international medical insurance belonging to one of the parents
• Proof that you have the financial means to cover your expenses for the duration of your stay in South Africa

Costs vary depending on the student visa type and the study period’s length. Contact us, and one of our immigration consultants will help you work out total cost estimates, including various fees required to process applications.

1. The first step in the application process is to register at the academic institution
2. Proceed after you receive confirmation of your acceptance at your chosen school or university in South Africa
3. Contact your IBN immigration consultant to review your South Africa study visa qualification to ensure you meet every requirement
4. Your immigration specialist will help you prepare your submission pack to apply for your visa
5. Wait for your visa application to be approved
6. Your immigration consultant will provide you with an estimated turnaround time based on the current trends that affect applications
7. Lastly, pack for South Africa and begin your educational journey!