Bangladesh passport → South Africa

South Africa visa for citizens of Bangladesh

Embassy / VFSVisitor Visa (Tourist) · Up to 90 days

Citizens of Bangladesh 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 · Visitor Visa (Tourist) · Up to 90 days
How to apply	In-person at an embassy or visa center
Maximum stay	Up to 90 days
Entries	Multiple entry
Processing time	5–15 days
Passport validity	At least 6 months
Biometrics	Required
Appointment	Required
Interview	Not required
Onward or return ticket	Required
Proof of funds	Bank statements or income proof showing sufficient funds for the trip

How to apply

1
Gather required documents
Collect all documents as per checklist; ensure passport validity and photo standards.
2
Complete application form BI-84
Download and fill out the form legibly; sign and date it.
3
Book an appointment at VFS Global Dhaka
Appointment is mandatory for biometrics and document submission.
4
Attend appointment in person
Submit application, pay fees, and provide fingerprints and photograph.
5
Pay visa and service fees
Fees are paid at the VFS centre (currency in BDT).
6
Wait for processing
Processing typically takes 5 to 15 working days.
7
Collect passport or receive by courier
Passport can be collected in person or sent via courier if opted.

Documents checklist

Travel

Valid passport (with at least 2 blank pages)
Passport must be valid for at least 30 days beyond intended stay
Flight itinerary (round trip)
Confirmed reservation, not necessarily purchased ticket
Hotel booking or accommodation proof
For entire duration of stay

Financial

Bank statements (last 3–6 months)
Must show sufficient balance and regular transactions
Income tax returns (last 2 years)
Optional
To support proof of funds

Employment

Employment letter or leave approval
Optional
For employed applicants – must include salary and dates

Supporting

Completed application form (BI-84)
Signed and dated
Two recent passport-sized photos (white background)
Must meet South African visa photo requirements
Travel insurance
Optional
Recommended but not mandatory for tourist visas
Cover letter explaining purpose of visit
Optional
Optional but helpful

Proof of funds

Minimum balance: Equivalent of ZAR 3,000 per person per month of stay

Bank statements
Income tax returns
Salary slips

Bank statements should be original stamped and signed by the bank.

Good to know

Overstaying may result in a ban from entering South Africa.
Visas are not issued at the border for Bangladeshi passport holders – apply well in advance.
Incomplete applications can lead to delays or rejection.

Common refusal reasons

Insufficient funds

Provide clear evidence of sufficient funds and stable income.

Invalid passport validity

Ensure passport is valid for at least 30 days beyond intended stay.

Incomplete documentation

Use the checklist and include all required supporting documents.

FAQ

Do citizens of Bangladesh need a visa for South Africa?

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

How long can citizens of Bangladesh stay in South Africa?

Up to 90 days.

How long does South Africa visa processing take?

Typically 5–15 days.

What documents do citizens of Bangladesh need for South Africa?

Valid passport (with at least 2 blank pages); Completed application form (BI-84); Two recent passport-sized photos (white background); Flight itinerary (round trip); Hotel booking or accommodation proof; Bank statements (last 3–6 months); and 4 more depending on your situation.

How long must my passport be valid for South Africa?

At least 6 months.

Where do I apply?

On the official site: https://www.vfsglobal.com/en/individuals/apply-for-visa-south-africa-from-bangladesh

Sources

vfsglobal.com

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