---
title: South Africa visa for citizens of India
description: "Citizens of India don't need a visa for South Africa but must get an electronic travel authorization (eTA) online before travelling. Stay up to 30 days. Documents checklist and application steps."
canonical: https://nowah.xyz/visa/south-africa/india
lastModified: 2026-09-04
---

# South Africa visa for citizens of India

Citizens of India don't need a visa for South Africa but must get an electronic travel authorization (eTA) online before travelling.

*Not yet cross-checked · last checked 2026-09-04. Policies change. Confirm with the embassy or official visa portal before you travel.*

Official application site: https://ehome.dha.gov.za/eta

## Key facts

- **Entry route:** eTA · eVisa (ETA) · Tourist
- **How to apply:** Electronic travel authorization (online)
- **Maximum stay:** Up to 30 days
- **Visa validity:** 30 days
- **Entries:** Single entry
- **Passport validity:** At least 6 months
- **Biometrics:** Not required
- **Appointment:** Not required
- **Interview:** Not required
- **Onward or return ticket:** Required
- **Proof of funds:** Sufficient funds for the duration of stay (bank statements)

## How to apply

1. **Create account on DHA eVisa portal** — Register on the official South African eVisa website with your email.
2. **Complete the online application** — Fill in personal, passport and travel details accurately.
3. **Upload documents** — Upload passport scan, photo, tickets, accommodation and financial proof.
4. **Pay the visa fee online** — Pay via the portal's payment gateway and keep the receipt.
5. **Await eVisa approval by email** — The approved eVisa is sent electronically; no embassy visit is required.
6. **Print eVisa and travel** — Arrive via OR Tambo, Cape Town or Lanseria International Airport and present the eVisa at immigration.

## Documents checklist

- **Passport bio page** (Identity): Valid at least 30 days beyond departure with two blank pages.
- **Passport-style photo** (Identity): Recent digital photograph meeting photo requirements.
- **Completed online application form** (Supporting): Submitted via the DHA eVisa portal.
- **Return/onward flight ticket** (Travel): Confirmed booking showing departure from South Africa.
- **Proof of accommodation** (Travel): Hotel booking or host details for the stay.
- **Bank statements** (Financial): Recent statements showing sufficient funds.
- **Yellow fever certificate** (Supporting, optional): Required only if arriving from/transiting a yellow fever risk country.
- **Cover letter / itinerary** (Supporting, optional): Brief travel purpose and itinerary summary.

## Proof of funds

- Bank statements
- Payslips

Applicants must show sufficient funds to cover the stay.

## Good to know

- eVisa entry is only valid through OR Tambo, Cape Town and Lanseria International Airports.
- Do not book non-refundable travel before the eVisa is approved.

## Common refusal reasons

- **Passport validity under 30 days beyond departure or insufficient blank pages** — Renew passport to have 6+ months validity and two blank pages.
- **Missing or unclear financial proof** — Upload recent, stamped bank statements showing adequate funds.

## FAQs

### Do citizens of India need a visa for South Africa?

Citizens of India don't need a visa for South Africa but must get an electronic travel authorization (eTA) online before travelling. Visa type: eVisa (ETA) · Tourist.

### How long can citizens of India stay in South Africa?

Up to 30 days.

### What documents do citizens of India need for South Africa?

Passport bio page; Passport-style photo; Completed online application form; Return/onward flight ticket; Proof of accommodation; Bank statements; and 2 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://ehome.dha.gov.za/eta

## Sources

- South Africa launches ETA: Indians can now get digital travel approval ... (economictimes.indiatimes.com, third-party site)
- [How To Apply For South Africa's ETA - homeaffairsguide.co.za](https://homeaffairsguide.co.za/resources/electronic-travel-authorisation-eta/)
- South Africa ETA Guide 2026: How to Apply for the Electronic Travel ... (blog.wego.com, third-party site)
- [ehome.dha.gov.za](https://ehome.dha.gov.za/eta)

## More

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