Bhutan passport → South Africa

South Africa visa for citizens of Bhutan

Embassy / VFSVisitor Visa (Tourist/Business)

Citizens of Bhutan 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/Business)
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	ZAR 425
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 showing sufficient funds

How to apply

1
Determine visa type and gather documents
Check the South African Department of Home Affairs website for the correct visa category (e.g., visitor visa).
2
Complete visa application form
Fill out the BI-84 form accurately and sign it.
3
Schedule an appointment
Book an appointment at the nearest South African embassy or consulate (or VFS Global centre if applicable).
4
Pay the visa fee
Pay the non-refundable visa fee (ZAR 425 or equivalent in local currency) as instructed.
5
Submit application in person
Attend the appointment with all required documents and biometrics (fingerprints and photograph).
6
Wait for processing
Processing typically takes 10-15 working days.
7
Collect passport with visa
Once approved, collect your passport from the embassy/consulate or have it couriered back.

Documents checklist

Identity

Passport (valid for at least 6 months beyond intended stay, with at least 2 blank pages)
Completed and signed visa application form (BI-84)
Two recent passport-size photographs (white background, 35x45mm)

Travel

Proof of travel (flight itinerary or confirmed return ticket)
Onward/return ticket required
Proof of accommodation (hotel bookings or invitation letter from host)

Financial

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

Employment

Proof of employment or business registration
Employer letter or business license

Supporting

Travel insurance covering medical expenses and repatriation
Minimum coverage of €30,000
Yellow fever vaccination certificate (if traveling from endemic area)
Optional
Required only if applicable
Police clearance certificate (if applicable)
Optional
May be requested for certain applicants

Proof of funds

Minimum balance: Equivalent of ZAR 3,000 per day of stay

Bank statements
Pay slips
Sponsor letter

Funds must be available for the entire stay

Good to know

Visa fees are non-refundable even if the application is rejected.
Incomplete applications will be returned or rejected.
Overstaying the visa may result in fines or a ban.

Common refusal reasons

Insufficient funds or unclear source of income

Provide clear bank statements and proof of employment.

Incomplete or incorrect documentation

Double-check all required documents and forms.

Previous visa violations or overstays

Ensure compliance with previous visa conditions.

FAQ

Do citizens of Bhutan need a visa for South Africa?

Citizens of Bhutan need a visa for South Africa and must apply in person at an embassy or visa centre. Visa type: Visitor Visa (Tourist/Business).

How long can citizens of Bhutan stay in South Africa?

Up to 30 days.

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

Government fee: ZAR 425.

How long does South Africa visa processing take?

Typically 10–15 days.

What documents do citizens of Bhutan need for South Africa?

Passport (valid for at least 6 months beyond intended stay, with at least 2 blank pages); Completed and signed visa application form (BI-84); Two recent passport-size photographs (white background, 35x45mm); Proof of travel (flight itinerary or confirmed return ticket); Proof of accommodation (hotel bookings or invitation letter from host); Bank statements for the last 3 months; and 4 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/visas

Sources

dha.gov.za

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