---
title: South Africa visa for citizens of Bhutan
description: "Citizens of Bhutan need a visa for South Africa and must apply in person at an embassy or visa centre. Stay up to 30 days. Fee: ZAR 425. Processing: 10–15 days. Documents checklist and application steps."
canonical: https://nowah.xyz/visa/south-africa/bhutan
lastModified: 2026-09-05
---

# South Africa visa for citizens of Bhutan

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.*

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

## 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

- **Passport (valid for at least 6 months beyond intended stay, with at least 2 blank pages)** (Identity)
- **Completed and signed visa application form (BI-84)** (Identity)
- **Two recent passport-size photographs (white background, 35x45mm)** (Identity)
- **Proof of travel (flight itinerary or confirmed return ticket)** (Travel): Onward/return ticket required
- **Proof of accommodation (hotel bookings or invitation letter from host)** (Travel)
- **Bank statements for the last 3 months** (Financial): Must show sufficient funds for the stay
- **Proof of employment or business registration** (Employment): Employer letter or business license
- **Travel insurance covering medical expenses and repatriation** (Supporting): Minimum coverage of €30,000
- **Yellow fever vaccination certificate (if traveling from endemic area)** (Supporting, optional): Required only if applicable
- **Police clearance certificate (if applicable)** (Supporting, 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.

## FAQs

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

## More

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