Central African Republic passport → South Africa

South Africa visa for citizens of the Central African Republic

Embassy / VFSVisitor Visa (Tourist)

Citizens of the Central African Republic need a visa for South Africa and must apply in person at an embassy or visa centre.

Official application site

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)
How to apply	In-person at an embassy or visa center
Maximum stay	Up to 90 days
Entries	Single entry
Processing time	15–30 days
Government fee	$36 + $21 service fee
Passport validity	At least 6 months
Biometrics	Required
Appointment	Required
Interview	Not required
Onward or return ticket	Required
Proof of funds	Minimum of $500 per month of stay

How to apply

1
Confirm visa requirement
Central African Republic passport holders require a visa for South Africa.
2
Gather required documents
Collect all documents listed above, including photographs and financial proofs.
3
Complete application form
Fill out the BI-84 application form accurately in black ink.
4
Book appointment at VFS Global or Embassy
Schedule an in-person appointment at the nearest South African visa centre.
5
Pay visa fees
Pay the government fee and service fee via bank deposit or online.
6
Attend appointment and submit application
Submit biometrics (fingerprints and photo) and original documents in person.
7
Track application status
Use the VFS tracking ID to monitor processing.
8
Receive visa decision
Collect passport from the centre or check for courier delivery.
9
Travel to South Africa
Carry a printed copy of the visa and supporting documents.
10
Adhere to visa conditions
Do not overstay; respect single-entry and max stay limit.

Documents checklist

Identity

Valid passport
Must have at least 6 months validity and two blank pages
Completed visa application form
Form BI-84 completed in black ink
Passport-size photographs
Two recent colour photographs, white background

Travel

Travel itinerary
Round-trip flight booking or confirmed reservation
Proof of accommodation
Hotel booking or invitation letter from host
Proof of return ticket
Confirmed onward or return flight
Travel insurance
Optional
Recommended for medical emergencies

Financial

Bank statements
Last 3 months, showing sufficient funds
Visa fee payment receipt
Proof of payment of application and service fees

Employment

Proof of employment or studies
Optional
Letter from employer or school confirming leave

Health

Yellow fever vaccination certificate
If travelling from or through an endemic country
Medical report
Optional
Required for stays longer than 30 days

Supporting

Cover letter
Optional
Explaining purpose and duration of visit
Police clearance certificate
Optional
Required for stays longer than 30 days

Proof of funds

Minimum balance: $500 per month of stay

Bank statements
Pay slips
Sponsor letter

Funds must be available in a bank account; credit cards not accepted as proof.

Good to know

Processing times can extend up to 30 days; apply well in advance.
All documents must be in English or accompanied by a certified translation.
Incomplete applications will be rejected outright.

Common refusal reasons

Insufficient proof of funds

Provide bank statements showing at least $500 per month of stay.

Missing required documents

Use the checklist and double-check before appointment.

Incomplete application form

Fill all fields; sign and date the form.

Previous visa violations

Include a letter explaining any overstays or violations.

FAQ

Do citizens of the Central African Republic need a visa for South Africa?

Citizens of the Central African Republic need a visa for South Africa and must apply in person at an embassy or visa centre. Visa type: Visitor Visa (Tourist).

How long can citizens of the Central African Republic stay in South Africa?

Up to 90 days.

How much does the South Africa visa cost for citizens of the Central African Republic?

Government fee: $36 + $21 service fee.

How long does South Africa visa processing take?

Typically 15–30 days.

What documents do citizens of the Central African Republic need for South Africa?

Valid passport; Completed visa application form; Passport-size photographs; Travel itinerary; Proof of accommodation; Bank statements; and 8 more.

How long must my passport be valid for South Africa?

At least 6 months.

Where do I apply?

On the official site: http://www.dha.gov.za/index.php/immigration-services/visas

Sources

dha.gov.za

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