---
title: South Africa visa for citizens of Bangladesh
description: "Citizens of Bangladesh need a visa for South Africa and must apply in person at an embassy or visa centre. Stay up to 90 days. Processing: 5–15 days. Documents checklist and application steps."
canonical: https://nowah.xyz/visa/south-africa/bangladesh
lastModified: 2026-09-05
---

# South Africa visa for citizens of Bangladesh

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.*

Official application site: https://www.vfsglobal.com/en/individuals/apply-for-visa-south-africa-from-bangladesh

## 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

- **Valid passport (with at least 2 blank pages)** (Travel): Passport must be valid for at least 30 days beyond intended stay
- **Completed application form (BI-84)** (Supporting): Signed and dated
- **Two recent passport-sized photos (white background)** (Supporting): Must meet South African visa photo requirements
- **Flight itinerary (round trip)** (Travel): Confirmed reservation, not necessarily purchased ticket
- **Hotel booking or accommodation proof** (Travel): For entire duration of stay
- **Bank statements (last 3–6 months)** (Financial): Must show sufficient balance and regular transactions
- **Employment letter or leave approval** (Employment, optional): For employed applicants – must include salary and dates
- **Income tax returns (last 2 years)** (Financial, optional): To support proof of funds
- **Travel insurance** (Supporting, optional): Recommended but not mandatory for tourist visas
- **Cover letter explaining purpose of visit** (Supporting, 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.

## FAQs

### 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](https://www.vfsglobal.com/en/individuals/apply-for-visa-south-africa-from-bangladesh)

## More

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