Visa Process Overview
Below is a general overview of your expected student visa or residence permit application process. Step-by-step instructions on how to apply for your student visa will be posted below as soon as they are updated for your specific departure cycle. As instructions are posted for your program and cycle, you will receive an email notification.
The visa application process, including requirements and fees, are subject to change.
What type of visa do I need?
You will be applying for a Temporary Residence Study Permit/Visa for South Africa.
How do I apply for the permit?You must apply for your permit through the Consulate Office of the South African Embassy which has jurisdiction over your state. You will be required to mail your passport and all additional required documents to the Consulate. Your passport with the permit inside of it will be mailed back to you before your departure.
What documents will I need to collect in order to apply for the permit?- United States Passport valid for at least six months after your return
- Visa Application Form
- Passport-sized Photographs
- Parental Consent Form (Who needs to sign?)
- Birth Certificate
- Proof of Financial Means
- Medical Report
- Radiological Report / Chest X-Ray
- Money Order for Permit Fee
- Police Report (only required for participants over 18. Must be obtained within three months of departure)
- Year participants only: You may need to be a $1500 Repatriation Deposit which will be returned to you at the end of your program
You will also receive additional documents from AFS-USA and AFS-South Africa necessary for applying for your permit. Warning: If your support documents from AFS-South Africa cannot be obtained in time, there may be a chance you will depart later than scheduled.
Requirements may vary between Consulates. Additional documents may be required. Do not begin the visa process until you are notified by AFS.
When do I apply for the permit?You must wait for your support documents from AFS before sending your complete permit application and additional documents to the appropriate Consulate, usually within 3-4 weeks of your departure.
How much will the permit cost?The Consulate will charge a processing fee of $72.00 USD.
Are there any other expected costs?There are many additional costs involved in obtaining, notarizing, legalizing, and mailing the required documents.
Are any of these costs covered in my AFS program tuition?No, your program fee does not cover any of the costs related to obtaining your passport or permit.
Can I travel before the start of my program?AFS recommends that you not plan any travel outside of the United States during the three months before your program departs. Obtaining a permit takes time and your passport is usually required for this. Should you choose to travel within the three months before the start of your program and not allow enough time to procure your permit, you will run the risk of jeopardizing your travel arrangements.
Full Visa InstructionsIf you are participating in a Year or Semester program to South Africa, you will be notified when the full permit instructions are available. Do not begin the visa process until you are notified by AFS.
Fees and requirements are determined by immigration authorities and are subject to change at any time. For help with any terms, please view the Visa Glossary.
