South Africa passport → Mali

Mali visa for citizens of South Africa

Embassy / VFSVisa · Tourist (up to 90 days)

Citizens of South Africa need a visa for Mali 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 · Visa · 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	Single entry
Processing time	7–15 days
Government fee	€80
Passport validity	At least 6 months
Biometrics	Required
Appointment	Required
Interview	Not required
Onward or return ticket	Required
Proof of funds	Bank statement for last 3 months

How to apply

1
Contact nearest Mali embassy or consulate
Determine jurisdiction and book an appointment
2
Gather required documents
Collect all documents as per checklist
3
Complete visa application form
Download and fill the form accurately
4
Attend in-person appointment
Submit documents, provide biometrics (fingerprints and photo)
5
Pay visa fee
Pay non-refundable fee at the embassy
6
Wait for processing
Processing typically takes 7–15 days
7
Collect passport with visa
Either pick up or receive by courier if arranged

Documents checklist

Travel

Valid passport
Must have at least 6 months validity beyond intended stay
Flight itinerary
Round trip confirmed booking
Hotel reservation
For entire stay in Mali
Proof of accommodation
Hotel booking or invitation letter
Return flight ticket
Confirmed and fully paid

Financial

Bank statements
Last 3 months showing sufficient funds

Employment

Employment letter
Stating position, salary, and approved leave

Supporting

Passport-size photos (2)
White background, 35x45mm
Visa application form
Filled and signed
Yellow fever vaccination certificate
Mandatory for entry
Travel insurance
Optional
Recommended covering medical expenses
Invitation letter (if visiting family/friends)
Optional
Notarized and from host in Mali
Visa fee payment receipt
Pay at embassy after appointment
Copy of previous visas (if any)
Optional
Helpful to show travel history

Proof of funds

Minimum balance: Approx. €50 per day of stay

Bank statements
Pay slips
Sponsorship letter

Good to know

Yellow fever vaccination is mandatory for entry into Mali.
Ensure passport has at least 6 months validity before applying.

Common refusal reasons

Incomplete or incorrect documents

Double-check checklist and provide all required documents.

Insufficient funds

Show bank statements with adequate balance.

FAQ

Do citizens of South Africa need a visa for Mali?

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

How long can citizens of South Africa stay in Mali?

Up to 90 days.

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

Government fee: €80.

How long does Mali visa processing take?

Typically 7–15 days.

What documents do citizens of South Africa need for Mali?

Valid passport; Passport-size photos (2); Visa application form; Flight itinerary; Hotel reservation; Bank statements; and 8 more.

How long must my passport be valid for Mali?

At least 6 months.

Plan your trip to Mali

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