---
title: Nigeria visa for citizens of South Africa
description: "Citizens of South Africa need a visa for Nigeria and can apply online for an eVisa. Stay up to 30 days. Fee: $160. Processing: 5–14 days. Documents checklist and application steps."
canonical: https://nowah.xyz/visa/nigeria/south-africa
lastModified: 2026-09-05
---

# Nigeria visa for citizens of South Africa

Citizens of South Africa need a visa for Nigeria and can apply online for an eVisa.

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

Official application site: https://portal.immigration.gov.ng/visa/freshVisa

## Key facts

- **Entry route:** eVisa · Nigeria eVisa (Tourist)
- **How to apply:** Fully online — no office visit
- **Maximum stay:** Up to 30 days
- **Visa validity:** 90 days
- **Entries:** Single entry
- **Processing time:** 5–14 days
- **Government fee:** $160
- **Passport validity:** At least 6 months
- **Biometrics:** Not required
- **Appointment:** Not required
- **Interview:** Not required
- **Onward or return ticket:** Required
- **Proof of funds:** Bank statement / proof of sufficient funds

## How to apply

1. **Prepare required documents** — Scan passport, photo, itinerary, accommodation, bank statements, and yellow fever certificate.
2. **Complete online application** — Go to official Nigeria Immigration eVisa portal and fill the Fresh Visa form.
3. **Upload documents and submit** — Attach scanned copies of all required documents and submit the application.
4. **Pay visa fee online** — Pay the eVisa processing fee with a credit/debit card (USD 160).
5. **Receive eVisa via email** — Approved eVisa is sent as a PDF within 5 to 14 business days.
6. **Print eVisa and travel** — Carry a printed copy of the eVisa along with your passport when entering Nigeria.

## Documents checklist

- **Valid passport (at least 6 months validity and 2 blank pages)** (Identity): Scanned bio-data page
- **Recent passport-style photograph (white background)** (Identity): JPEG format, max 200KB
- **Completed online application form** (Identity): Filled and submitted on official portal
- **Travel itinerary (return flight booking)** (Travel): Confirmed round-trip reservation
- **Proof of accommodation in Nigeria** (Travel): Hotel booking or invitation letter from host
- **Bank statements / proof of sufficient funds** (Financial): Last 3 months, showing adequate balance
- **Yellow fever vaccination certificate** (Supporting): International certificate of vaccination
- **Travel health insurance** (Supporting, optional): Recommended but not mandatory
- **Letter of invitation (if visiting family/friends)** (Supporting, optional): Signed by host with copy of their passport
- **Employer letter (if employed)** (Employment, optional): Stating position, salary and leave approval

## Proof of funds

- **Minimum balance:** Sufficient for stay (no exact amount specified)
- Bank statements
- Pay slips
- Sponsorship letter

Bank statements must be recent (last 3 months) and show your name.

## Good to know

- Ensure passport has at least 6 months validity and 2 blank pages.
- Yellow fever vaccination is mandatory for entry.
- eVisa approval is subject to immigration discretion; apply early to avoid delays.

## Common refusal reasons

- **Incomplete or incorrect application form** — Double-check all fields before submission.
- **Insufficient funds evidence** — Provide clear, recent bank statements showing adequate balance.
- **Invalid or expired passport** — Ensure passport is valid for at least 6 months from date of entry.
- **Criminal record or security concerns** — Declare any relevant history honestly; obtain legal advice if needed.

## FAQs

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

Citizens of South Africa need a visa for Nigeria and can apply online for an eVisa. Visa type: Nigeria eVisa (Tourist).

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

Up to 30 days.

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

Government fee: $160.

### How long does Nigeria visa processing take?

Typically 5–14 days.

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

Valid passport (at least 6 months validity and 2 blank pages); Recent passport-style photograph (white background); Completed online application form; Travel itinerary (return flight booking); Proof of accommodation in Nigeria; Bank statements / proof of sufficient funds; and 4 more.

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

At least 6 months.

### Where do I apply?

On the official site: https://portal.immigration.gov.ng/visa/freshVisa

## Sources

- [portal.immigration.gov.ng](https://portal.immigration.gov.ng/visa/freshVisa)

## More

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