---
title: Australia visa for citizens of South Africa
description: "Citizens of South Africa need a visa for Australia and must apply in person at an embassy or visa centre. Stay up to 90 days. Fee: A$145. Documents checklist and application steps."
canonical: https://nowah.xyz/visa/australia/south-africa
lastModified: 2026-09-05
---

# Australia visa for citizens of South Africa

Citizens of South Africa need a visa for Australia and must apply in person at an embassy or visa centre.

*Verified · last checked 2026-09-05. Policies change. Confirm with the embassy or official visa portal before you travel.*

Official application site: https://immi.homeaffairs.gov.au/visas/getting-a-visa/visa-listing/visitor-600

## Key facts

- **Entry route:** Embassy / VFS · Subclass 600 Visitor Visa (Tourist Stream)
- **How to apply:** In-person at an embassy or visa center
- **Maximum stay:** Up to 90 days
- **Visa validity:** 365 days
- **Entries:** Multiple entry
- **Government fee:** A$145
- **Passport validity:** At least 6 months
- **Biometrics:** Required
- **Appointment:** Required
- **Interview:** Not required
- **Onward or return ticket:** Required
- **Proof of funds:** Bank statements for last 3 months or equivalent

## How to apply

1. **Create ImmiAccount and complete online application** — Fill out Form 1419 online via the Australian Department of Home Affairs portal
2. **Upload digital documents** — Attach passport copy, photo, bank statements, employment letter, and itinerary
3. **Pay visa application fee** — Fee is AUD 145 (non-refundable) paid online via credit/debit card
4. **Schedule biometrics appointment** — Book appointment at the nearest Australian Visa Application Centre (VFS) in South Africa
5. **Attend biometrics appointment in person** — Provide fingerprints and photograph at the VFS centre
6. **Submit physical documents (if required)** — Some applicants may need to submit originals or certified copies at the centre
7. **Wait for visa decision** — Processing time varies; check status online via ImmiAccount
8. **Receive visa grant notification** — If approved, visa is electronically linked to passport

## Documents checklist

- **Completed visa application form (Form 1419 online)** (Identity): Submit via ImmiAccount
- **Passport biodata page copy** (Identity): Must be valid for at least 6 months on departure
- **Recent passport-sized photograph** (Identity): 35-40mm, white background, taken within 6 months
- **Bank statements (last 3 months)** (Financial): Minimum balance not specified, but sufficient for stay
- **Payslips or employment letter** (Employment): Letter on company letterhead stating position and leave
- **Travel itinerary and return ticket** (Travel): Onward ticket out of Australia
- **Proof of accommodation** (Travel): Hotel bookings or invitation from host
- **Invitation letter (if visiting family/friends)** (Supporting, optional): From host in Australia, including their details and relationship
- **Birth certificate (if applicable for family)** (Identity, optional): For children or dependents
- **Marriage certificate (if applicable)** (Identity, optional): For spouse/dependents

## Common refusal reasons

- **Insufficient funds or unclear financial evidence** — Provide at least 3 months of bank statements showing regular income and enough balance to cover travel and expenses
- **Incomplete or incorrect application form** — Double-check all fields, especially passport details and travel dates
- **Criminal record or previous visa overstay** — Declare honestly; if minor, provide explanation and supporting documents
- **No strong ties to home country** — Provide employment letter, property ownership, or family ties to demonstrate intent to return

## FAQs

### Do citizens of South Africa need a visa for Australia?

Citizens of South Africa need a visa for Australia and must apply in person at an embassy or visa centre. Visa type: Subclass 600 Visitor Visa (Tourist Stream).

### How long can citizens of South Africa stay in Australia?

Up to 90 days.

### How much does the Australia visa cost for citizens of South Africa?

Government fee: A$145.

### What documents do citizens of South Africa need for Australia?

Completed visa application form (Form 1419 online); Passport biodata page copy; Recent passport-sized photograph; Bank statements (last 3 months); Payslips or employment letter; Travel itinerary and return ticket; and 4 more.

### How long must my passport be valid for Australia?

At least 6 months.

### Where do I apply?

On the official site: https://immi.homeaffairs.gov.au/visas/getting-a-visa/visa-listing/visitor-600

## Sources

- [immi.homeaffairs.gov.au](https://immi.homeaffairs.gov.au/visas/getting-a-visa/visa-listing/visitor-600)

## More

- [Australia visa for every passport](/visa/australia)
- [Every destination for South Africa passport holders](/visa/passport/south-africa)