South Africa passport → Denmark

Denmark visa for citizens of South Africa

Embassy / VFSSchengen visa – Short stay (up to 90 days)

Citizens of South Africa need a visa for Denmark 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.

Key facts

Entry route	Embassy / VFS · Schengen visa – Short stay (up to 90 days)
How to apply	In-person at an embassy or visa center
Maximum stay	Up to 90 days
Visa validity	90 days
Entries	Multiple entry
Processing time	15–45 days
Government fee	€90 + €30 service fee
Passport validity	At least 6 months
Biometrics	Required
Appointment	Required
Interview	Not required
Onward or return ticket	Required
Proof of funds	€50 per day of stay

How to apply

1
Prepare documents
Gather all required documents as per checklist above.
2
Complete online visa application form
Fill out the Schengen visa application form at the Danish immigration portal.
3
Book appointment at VFS Global or Embassy
Schedule an in-person appointment at the Danish visa application centre in South Africa.
4
Attend appointment – submit documents and biometrics
Submit your application in person. Fingerprints and photograph will be taken.
5
Pay visa fee
Pay the government visa fee (€80) and service fee (≈€30) at the centre.
6
Wait for processing
Processing typically takes 15 to 45 calendar days.
7
Collect passport or receive via courier
When ready, collect your passport from the centre or opt for courier delivery.

Documents checklist

Identity

Valid passport
At least 2 blank pages, issued within last 10 years.
Passport copy (bio page + previous Schengen visas)
Completed and signed visa application form
Two recent passport photos (35x45 mm, white background)

Travel

Round-trip flight itinerary or confirmed booking
Proof of accommodation (hotel bookings or invitation letter)
Travel itinerary
Detailed plan of your stay in Denmark/Schengen.

Financial

Proof of sufficient funds (bank statements last 3 months)
Minimum €50 per day of stay.
Visa fee payment receipt

Employment

Employment letter or proof of enrollment
Stating position, salary, and approved leave.

Supporting

Travel health insurance (€30,000 minimum coverage)
Valid for entire Schengen area and duration of stay.

Proof of funds

Minimum balance: €50 per day of stay

Bank statements for last 3 months
Sponsorship letter if applicable

Bank statements must be original, stamped, and in English or accompanied by a translation.

Good to know

Processing may take longer during peak season; apply at least 45 days before travel.
Incomplete applications will be rejected immediately.

Common refusal reasons

Insufficient financial means

Provide clear bank statements showing sufficient balance for entire stay.

Invalid travel insurance

Ensure insurance covers at least €30,000 in medical expenses and is valid throughout the Schengen area.

Lack of return intention

Provide strong ties to home country: employment letter, property, family.

FAQ

Do citizens of South Africa need a visa for Denmark?

Citizens of South Africa need a visa for Denmark and must apply in person at an embassy or visa centre. Visa type: Schengen visa – Short stay (up to 90 days).

How long can citizens of South Africa stay in Denmark?

Up to 90 days.

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

Government fee: €90 + €30 service fee.

How long does Denmark visa processing take?

Typically 15–45 days.

What documents do citizens of South Africa need for Denmark?

Valid passport; Passport copy (bio page + previous Schengen visas); Completed and signed visa application form; Two recent passport photos (35x45 mm, white background); Travel health insurance (€30,000 minimum coverage); Round-trip flight itinerary or confirmed booking; and 5 more.

How long must my passport be valid for Denmark?

At least 6 months.

Where do I apply?

Applications go through https://um.dk/en/travel-and-residence/visa-and-residence-permits/visa. Check that you are on the government's site before you pay.

Sources

um.dk

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