Nepal passport → South Africa

South Africa visa for citizens of Nepal

Embassy / VFSTourist Visa

Citizens of Nepal 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 · Tourist Visa
How to apply	In-person at an embassy or visa center
Maximum stay	Up to 90 days
Passport validity	At least 6 months
Biometrics	Required
Appointment	Required
Interview	Not required
Onward or return ticket	Required
Proof of funds	Bank statements for the last 3 months showing sufficient balance

How to apply

1
Complete the online visa application form
Fill out the DHA-11 form on the VFS Global website or the South African Department of Home Affairs portal.
2
Gather all required documents
Collect passport, photos, flight itinerary, hotel booking, bank statements, employment letter, and any supporting documents.
3
Book an appointment at the VFS Global visa application center in Kathmandu
Schedule an appointment online through the VFS Global website; walk-ins are not accepted.
4
Attend the appointment and submit biometrics
Visit the VFS Global center with all documents; provide fingerprints and photograph.
5
Pay the visa fee
Pay the applicable visa fee and VFS service fee at the center; accepted payment methods vary.
6
Submit the application
Hand over the completed application form, documents, and fee receipt; receive a tracking number.
7
Wait for processing
Processing times vary; check the status online using the tracking number.
8
Collect passport with visa decision
Return to the VFS Global center to collect your passport once notified; or opt for courier delivery if available.

Documents checklist

Identity

Valid passport with at least two blank pages
Passport must be valid for at least 6 months from the date of intended departure from South Africa.
Completed visa application form (DHA-11)
Form must be fully completed and signed.
Two recent passport-sized photographs (white background)
Photos must be 35mm x 45mm, not older than 6 months.

Travel

Flight itinerary (round trip)
Confirmed flight bookings showing entry and exit from South Africa.
Hotel reservation or accommodation proof
Bookings covering the entire stay in South Africa.

Financial

Bank statements for the last 3 months
Must show sufficient funds to cover the trip.

Employment

Employment letter or leave approval
Letter from employer stating position, salary, and approved leave.

Supporting

Travel insurance covering medical expenses
Optional
Recommended but not mandatory; minimum coverage of €30,000.
Yellow fever vaccination certificate
Optional
Required only if traveling from or through a yellow fever endemic country.
Proof of ties to Nepal (e.g., property deed, marriage certificate)
Optional
May be requested to demonstrate intention to return.

Proof of funds

Bank statements for the last 3 months

Sufficient funds to cover accommodation, travel, and living expenses for the duration of stay.

Good to know

Visa fees are non-refundable even if the application is rejected.
Incomplete applications will be rejected without review.
Biometrics must be done in person; no exceptions.

Common refusal reasons

Insufficient funds or unclear source of income

Provide clear bank statements showing adequate funds and a source of income.

Lack of strong ties to home country

Submit proof of employment, property ownership, or family ties in Nepal.

Incomplete or incorrect documentation

Double-check all documents against the official checklist and ensure forms are correctly filled.

FAQ

Do citizens of Nepal need a visa for South Africa?

Citizens of Nepal need a visa for South Africa and must apply in person at an embassy or visa centre. Visa type: Tourist Visa.

How long can citizens of Nepal stay in South Africa?

Up to 90 days.

What documents do citizens of Nepal need for South Africa?

Valid passport with at least two blank pages; Completed visa application form (DHA-11); Two recent passport-sized photographs (white background); Flight itinerary (round trip); Hotel reservation or accommodation proof; Bank statements for the last 3 months; and 4 more.

How long must my passport be valid for South Africa?

At least 6 months.

Plan your trip to South Africa

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