---
title: Germany visa for citizens of South Africa
description: "Citizens of South Africa need a visa for Germany and must apply in person at an embassy or visa centre. Stay up to 90 days. Fee: €90. Processing: 15–45 days. Documents checklist and application steps."
canonical: https://nowah.xyz/visa/germany/south-africa
lastModified: 2026-09-05
---

# Germany visa for citizens of South Africa

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

- **Valid passport (with at least 2 blank pages)** (Identity): Passport must be valid for at least 6 months beyond departure from Schengen
- **Completed visa application form (national or Schengen)** (Identity): Print and sign the form after filling online
- **Biometric photo (35x45 mm, white background)** (Identity): Taken within the last 6 months
- **Travel health insurance (minimum €30,000 coverage, Schengen-wide)** (Supporting): Valid for the entire stay
- **Round-trip flight reservation** (Travel): Not booked; hold reservation only
- **Proof of accommodation (hotel bookings, rental agreement, or invitation)** (Travel): Must cover all planned stay
- **Bank statements (last 3 months)** (Financial): Show sufficient funds (approx. €45/day)
- **Employment letter (with leave approval) or proof of self-employment / studies** (Employment): Must include salary, position, and dates
- **Proof of civil status (marriage certificate, birth certificate of children if applicable)** (Identity, optional): If traveling with family
- **Cover letter explaining purpose of trip and itinerary** (Supporting): Brief, to-the-point
- **Passport copy (all pages with stamps/dates)** (Identity): Photocopy of entire passport
- **Proof of paid visa fee (if pre-payment required)** (Financial): Receipt from payment portal
- **Visa application consent form for minors (if under 18)** (Identity, optional): Signed by both parents/legal guardians
- **Return flight ticket reservation (if separate from outbound)** (Travel, optional): If already booked, provide booking confirmation

## 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.

## FAQs

### 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)

## More

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