South Africa passport → Germany

Germany visa for citizens of South Africa

Embassy / VFSSchengen Visa (C) · Tourist (up to 90 days)

Citizens of South Africa need a visa for Germany 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 (C) · Tourist (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
Passport validity	At least 6 months
Biometrics	Required
Appointment	Required
Interview	Not required
Onward or return ticket	Required
Proof of funds	Bank statements covering last 3 months (~€45 per day)

How to apply

1
Determine visa type and collect documents
Check whether you need a Schengen short-stay visa (C) based on your travel purpose.
2
Fill out the online visa application form
Complete the form on the official VIDEX portal and print it.
3
Pay the visa fee
Pay the €80 fee (non-refundable) online or at the centre as per instructions.
4
Book an appointment at VFS Global or the embassy
Appointments are mandatory; schedule via VFS Global website or embassy system.
5
Attend the appointment and submit documents
Submit all original documents, photocopies, and biometric data (photo & fingerprints).
6
Biometrics enrollment
Provide fingerprints and photograph at the visa centre. Valid for 5 years.
7
Wait for processing
Processing typically takes 15–45 calendar days. Do not book non-refundable travel yet.
8
Collect passport and visa
Pick up passport in person or opt for courier service (if available).
9
Verify visa details
Check visa sticker for correct dates, duration, and entry type.
10
Travel to Germany
Carry all original documents and proof of travel insurance for immigration checks.

Documents checklist

Identity

Valid passport (with at least 2 blank pages)
Passport must be valid for at least 6 months beyond departure from Schengen
Completed visa application form (national or Schengen)
Print and sign the form after filling online
Biometric photo (35x45 mm, white background)
Taken within the last 6 months
Proof of civil status (marriage certificate, birth certificate of children if applicable)
Optional
If traveling with family
Passport copy (all pages with stamps/dates)
Photocopy of entire passport
Visa application consent form for minors (if under 18)
Optional
Signed by both parents/legal guardians

Travel

Round-trip flight reservation
Not booked; hold reservation only
Proof of accommodation (hotel bookings, rental agreement, or invitation)
Must cover all planned stay
Return flight ticket reservation (if separate from outbound)
Optional
If already booked, provide booking confirmation

Financial

Bank statements (last 3 months)
Show sufficient funds (approx. €45/day)
Proof of paid visa fee (if pre-payment required)
Receipt from payment portal

Employment

Employment letter (with leave approval) or proof of self-employment / studies
Must include salary, position, and dates

Supporting

Travel health insurance (minimum €30,000 coverage, Schengen-wide)
Valid for the entire stay
Cover letter explaining purpose of trip and itinerary
Brief, to-the-point

Proof of funds

Minimum balance: €45 per day of stay (approx. €4,050 for 90 days)

Bank statements (last 3 months)
Sponsorship letter (if supported)

Self-funded applicants must show own funds; sponsored applicants need sponsor’s letter and financial proof.

Good to know

Do not book non-refundable flights before visa approval.
Appointments may have long wait times in peak season (plan 2–3 months ahead).
Visa does not grant automatic entry; border officer has final say on duration of stay.

Common refusal reasons

Incomplete or incorrect application form

Double-check all fields and submit a signed printed copy.

Insufficient travel funds

Provide bank statements showing at least €45 per day of stay.

Lack of travel insurance

Buy Schengen-compliant insurance covering €30,000 medical expenses.

Passport validity less than 6 months

Renew passport before applying.

FAQ

Do citizens of South Africa need a visa for Germany?

Citizens of South Africa need a visa for Germany and must apply in person at an embassy or visa centre. Visa type: Schengen Visa (C) · Tourist (up to 90 days).

How long can citizens of South Africa stay in Germany?

Up to 90 days.

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

Government fee: €90.

How long does Germany visa processing take?

Typically 15–45 days.

What documents do citizens of South Africa need for Germany?

Valid passport (with at least 2 blank pages); Completed visa application form (national or Schengen); Biometric photo (35x45 mm, white background); Travel health insurance (minimum €30,000 coverage, Schengen-wide); Round-trip flight reservation; Proof of accommodation (hotel bookings, rental agreement, or invitation); and 8 more.

How long must my passport be valid for Germany?

At least 6 months.

Sources

germany-visa.org (germany-visa.org, third-party site)

Plan your trip to Germany

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