Bahrain passport → South Africa

South Africa visa for citizens of Bahrain

Embassy / VFSTourist Visa

Citizens of Bahrain need a visa for South Africa 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 · Tourist Visa
How to apply	In-person at an embassy or visa center
Maximum stay	Up to 30 days
Visa validity	90 days
Entries	Single entry
Processing time	10–15 days
Government fee	$50
Passport validity	At least 6 months
Biometrics	Required
Appointment	Required
Interview	Not required
Onward or return ticket	Required
Proof of funds	Bank statements for last 3 months

How to apply

1
Prepare documents
Gather all required documents as per checklist
2
Complete visa application form
Fill out BI-84 form accurately
3
Book appointment
Schedule an appointment at the South African High Commission or embassy
4
Attend appointment in person
Submit documents, pay fee, and provide biometrics (fingerprints and photo)
5
Wait for processing
Processing typically takes 10-15 working days
6
Collect passport
Return to embassy to collect passport with visa (or courier if arranged)

Documents checklist

Identity

Valid passport with at least 2 blank pages
Must be valid for at least 6 months beyond intended stay
Completed visa application form (BI-84)
Download from DHA website
Two recent passport-size photographs
White background, 35x45mm

Travel

Flight itinerary (round trip)
Confirmed or booked reservation
Proof of accommodation
Hotel bookings or invitation letter

Financial

Bank statements for last 3 months
Must show sufficient funds for stay

Employment

Employment letter or proof of occupation
Stating position, salary, and leave approval

Supporting

Travel insurance
Optional
Recommended but not mandatory
Yellow fever vaccination certificate
Optional
Only if traveling from an endemic country

Proof of funds

Minimum balance: Equivalent of $500 per month of stay

Bank statements
Pay slips
Sponsor letter

Bank statements must be original or certified copies

Good to know

Visa must be used within 90 days of issue
Overstay may result in fines or future visa denial

Common refusal reasons

Incomplete or incorrect application form

Double-check all fields and sign the form

Insufficient funds

Provide clear bank statements showing adequate balance

Invalid passport validity

Ensure passport is valid for at least 6 months beyond intended stay

FAQ

Do citizens of Bahrain need a visa for South Africa?

Citizens of Bahrain need a visa for South Africa and must apply in person at an embassy or visa centre. Visa type: Tourist Visa.

How long can citizens of Bahrain stay in South Africa?

Up to 30 days.

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

Government fee: $50.

How long does South Africa visa processing take?

Typically 10–15 days.

What documents do citizens of Bahrain need for South Africa?

Valid passport with at least 2 blank pages; Completed visa application form (BI-84); Two recent passport-size photographs; Flight itinerary (round trip); Proof of accommodation; Bank statements for last 3 months; and 3 more.

How long must my passport be valid for South Africa?

At least 6 months.

Where do I apply?

On the official site: https://www.dha.gov.za/index.php/immigration-services/visa-application

Sources

dha.gov.za

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