---
title: South Africa visa for citizens of Bahrain
description: "Citizens of Bahrain need a visa for South Africa and must apply in person at an embassy or visa centre. Stay up to 30 days. Fee: $50. Processing: 10–15 days. Documents checklist and application steps."
canonical: https://nowah.xyz/visa/south-africa/bahrain
lastModified: 2026-09-05
---

# South Africa visa for citizens of Bahrain

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.*

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

## 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

- **Valid passport with at least 2 blank pages** (Identity): Must be valid for at least 6 months beyond intended stay
- **Completed visa application form (BI-84)** (Identity): Download from DHA website
- **Two recent passport-size photographs** (Identity): White background, 35x45mm
- **Flight itinerary (round trip)** (Travel): Confirmed or booked reservation
- **Proof of accommodation** (Travel): Hotel bookings or invitation letter
- **Bank statements for last 3 months** (Financial): Must show sufficient funds for stay
- **Employment letter or proof of occupation** (Employment): Stating position, salary, and leave approval
- **Travel insurance** (Supporting, optional): Recommended but not mandatory
- **Yellow fever vaccination certificate** (Supporting, 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

## FAQs

### 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](https://www.dha.gov.za/index.php/immigration-services/visa-application)

## More

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