---
title: South Africa visa for citizens of the Central African Republic
description: "Citizens of the Central African Republic need a visa for South Africa and must apply in person at an embassy or visa centre. Stay up to 90 days. Fee: $36 + $21 service fee. Processing: 15–30 days. Documents checklist and application steps."
canonical: https://nowah.xyz/visa/south-africa/central-african-republic
lastModified: 2026-09-05
---

# South Africa visa for citizens of the Central African Republic

Citizens of the Central African Republic 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: http://www.dha.gov.za/index.php/immigration-services/visas

## 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

- **Valid passport** (Identity): Must have at least 6 months validity and two blank pages
- **Completed visa application form** (Identity): Form BI-84 completed in black ink
- **Passport-size photographs** (Identity): Two recent colour photographs, white background
- **Travel itinerary** (Travel): Round-trip flight booking or confirmed reservation
- **Proof of accommodation** (Travel): Hotel booking or invitation letter from host
- **Bank statements** (Financial): Last 3 months, showing sufficient funds
- **Proof of employment or studies** (Employment, optional): Letter from employer or school confirming leave
- **Yellow fever vaccination certificate** (Health): If travelling from or through an endemic country
- **Visa fee payment receipt** (Financial): Proof of payment of application and service fees
- **Cover letter** (Supporting, optional): Explaining purpose and duration of visit
- **Proof of return ticket** (Travel): Confirmed onward or return flight
- **Travel insurance** (Travel, optional): Recommended for medical emergencies
- **Medical report** (Health, optional): Required for stays longer than 30 days
- **Police clearance certificate** (Supporting, 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.

## FAQs

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

## More

- [South Africa visa for every passport](/visa/south-africa)
- [Every destination for Central African Republic passport holders](/visa/passport/central-african-republic)