Study Visa

Students from around the world are coming to South Africa to further their academic goals. In reality, South African universities annually enrol 45,000 international students and the number is expected to keep growing. The nation’s top-notch colleges, diversified cultures and scenic landscape all draw in students.

All international students who intend to pursue a degree in South Africa must submit an application for a South African Study Visa with the Department of Home Affairs for full time studies.

The applicant’s studies at the relevant educational institution may be covered by the study visa. If the applicant switches institutions, a new study visa application is required. Despite the fact that study visas are granted for the entire time of study, there is a maximum of 8 years for primary school and 6 years for secondary school. The only restriction on the visa’s term for tertiary education is the length of the relevant degree, diploma or certificate.

If you are older than 21, you must provide documentation from the institution you plan to attend demonstrating that you have been accepted for the necessary course and that you or the sponsoring individual will be able to support you financially while you are studying in South Africa. You must demonstrate your own financial capability if you are not being sponsored by anyone. A proof of medical insurance for the duration of your stay in South Africa is also required.

In addition to the requirements listed above, if you are under the age of 21, you must choose a South African guardian. Your guardian in your country of origin must formally authorise this South African guardian and you must mention their consent in your application. The guardian for a study visa is normally a parent.

The applicant will not be eligible if the institution in question is not a recognised “learning institution” in the eyes of the Department of Home Affairs. The school must be registered with the Department of Basic Education or the Department of Higher Education in order to be considered a “learning institution.”

Although there are currently no official financial requirements for study visas, the Department of Home Affairs has implemented a policy requiring applicants to demonstrate that they would have access to at least R3 000 per month for the duration of their studies.

Applications for study visa extensions must be submitted at least 60 days before the visa expires.