South Africa passport → Slovakia

Slovakia visa for citizens of South Africa

Embassy / VFSSchengen Visa (Short Stay, up to 90 days)

Citizens of South Africa need a visa for Slovakia 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	180 days
Entries	Multiple entry
Processing time	15–45 days
Government fee	€90
Passport validity	At least 3 months
Biometrics	Required
Appointment	Required
Interview	Not required
Onward or return ticket	Required
Proof of funds	Bank statement (last 3 months) showing sufficient funds

How to apply

1
Determine visa type and gather documents
Check if you need a Schengen visa for Slovakia; prepare all required documents as per checklist.
2
Book an appointment at the Slovak embassy or VFS centre in your jurisdiction
Appointments are mandatory; schedule online via the official portal or VFS Global.
3
Complete the Schengen visa application form
Fill out online or print and sign; ensure all details are accurate.
4
Attend in-person appointment for document submission and biometrics
Bring all original documents plus copies; provide fingerprints and photograph.
5
Pay the visa fee
Pay €80 (or equivalent) at the centre; service fee may apply if using VFS.
6
Wait for processing
Processing takes 15–30 calendar days; may be longer if additional documents are requested.
7
Collect passport (or receive by courier)
Pick up in person or via courier if arranged; visa sticker will indicate validity and entry details.

Documents checklist

Travel

Valid passport (with at least 2 blank pages, issued within last 10 years, valid 3 months beyond intended departure)
Original and copy of bio page
Travel itinerary (round-trip flight reservations)
Not necessarily purchased
Proof of accommodation (hotel bookings or invitation letter)
Covers entire stay
Travel medical insurance (minimum €30,000 coverage, valid in Schengen area)
Must cover entire stay
Round-trip flight reservation
With dates and names

Financial

Proof of sufficient funds (bank statement of last 3 months)
€56 per day for stay or equivalent

Employment

Employment letter / Proof of employment (if employed)
Stating leave approval and salary

Supporting

Completed Schengen visa application form
Must be signed
Two recent passport-sized photographs (35x45 mm, white background)
Must meet ICAO standards
Proof of civil status (marriage certificate, birth certificate of dependents)
Optional
If applicable
Cover letter explaining purpose of visit
Optional
Recommended for clarity
Copy of previous Schengen visas (if any)
Optional
Include copies
Visa fee payment receipt
Pay upon submission
Invitation letter (if visiting friends/family) – notarised
Optional
From host in Slovakia

Proof of funds

Minimum balance: €56 per day of intended stay

Bank statements (last 3 months)
Sponsorship letter + sponsor's bank statement
Traveler's checks

If sponsored, the sponsor must provide their bank statements and a signed letter.

Good to know

Apply at least 4 weeks before travel; processing can take up to 30 days.
Visa does not guarantee entry; border officials have final say.

Common refusal reasons

Incomplete or incorrect documentation

Double-check all documents against the official checklist before appointment.

Insufficient funds

Provide clear proof of sufficient funds for entire stay.

Missing travel medical insurance

Purchase valid Schengen travel insurance before submission.

Previous visa overstay or violations

Disclose honestly and provide explanation if applicable.

FAQ

Do citizens of South Africa need a visa for Slovakia?

Citizens of South Africa need a visa for Slovakia 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 Slovakia?

Up to 90 days.

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

Government fee: €90.

How long does Slovakia visa processing take?

Typically 15–45 days.

What documents do citizens of South Africa need for Slovakia?

Completed Schengen visa application form; Valid passport (with at least 2 blank pages, issued within last 10 years, valid 3 months beyond intended departure); Two recent passport-sized photographs (35x45 mm, white background); Travel itinerary (round-trip flight reservations); Proof of accommodation (hotel bookings or invitation letter); Travel medical insurance (minimum €30,000 coverage, valid in Schengen area); and 8 more.

How long must my passport be valid for Slovakia?

At least 3 months.

Where do I apply?

Applications go through https://www.mzv.sk/web/en/consular_info/visa. Check that you are on the government's site before you pay.

Sources

mzv.sk

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