---
title: South Africa visa for citizens of North Korea
description: "Citizens of North Korea need a visa for South Africa and must apply in person at an embassy or visa centre. Stay up to 90 days. Processing: 10–15 days. Documents checklist and application steps."
canonical: https://nowah.xyz/visa/south-africa/north-korea
lastModified: 2026-09-05
---

# South Africa visa for citizens of North Korea

Citizens of North Korea 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 (Visitor's Visa)
- **How to apply:** In-person at an embassy or visa center
- **Maximum stay:** Up to 90 days
- **Visa validity:** 90 days
- **Entries:** Single entry
- **Processing time:** 10–15 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

## How to apply

1. **Gather required documents** — Collect all documents as per the checklist for a South African visa
2. **Book an appointment** — Schedule an appointment online at the VFS Global visa application centre
3. **Submit application and biometrics in person** — Attend the appointment to submit documents, photographs, and fingerprints
4. **Pay visa and service fees** — Pay the applicable government visa fee plus VFS service charge
5. **Track application online** — Use the reference number provided to check application status
6. **Collect passport with decision** — Return to the centre or opt for courier delivery to receive the passport

## Documents checklist

- **Passport (original and copy)** (Identity): Must be valid for at least 6 months and have at least 2 blank pages
- **Completed visa application form (DHA-84)** (Identity): Must be signed by the applicant
- **Two recent passport-size photographs** (Identity): Must meet South African photo specifications
- **Round-trip flight itinerary** (Travel): Must show entry and exit dates
- **Hotel reservation or proof of accommodation** (Travel): May include an invitation letter if staying with host
- **Travel insurance covering medical expenses** (Travel, optional): Highly recommended for tourist visa applications
- **Bank statements for the last 3 months** (Financial): Must show sufficient funds to cover the trip
- **Proof of employment or student status** (Employment): Letter from employer or school, stating leave approval
- **Yellow fever vaccination certificate** (Supporting, optional): Required if traveling from or through an endemic area
- **Police clearance certificate** (Supporting, optional): May be requested for certain nationals or longer stays

## Proof of funds

- Bank statements

Statements should show consistent income and sufficient funds for the duration of stay

## Good to know

- North Korean passport holders may face additional scrutiny and longer processing times.
- Verify current requirements with the nearest South African embassy or VFS Global before applying.

## Common refusal reasons

- **Incomplete or incorrect documentation** — Double-check the checklist and ensure all required documents are provided
- **Insufficient funds** — Provide clear bank statements showing adequate financial means

## FAQs

### Do citizens of North Korea need a visa for South Africa?

Citizens of North Korea need a visa for South Africa and must apply in person at an embassy or visa centre. Visa type: Tourist Visa (Visitor's Visa).

### How long can citizens of North Korea stay in South Africa?

Up to 90 days.

### How long does South Africa visa processing take?

Typically 10–15 days.

### What documents do citizens of North Korea need for South Africa?

Passport (original and copy); Completed visa application form (DHA-84); Two recent passport-size photographs; Round-trip flight itinerary; Hotel reservation or proof of accommodation; Bank statements for the last 3 months; and 4 more.

### How long must my passport be valid for South Africa?

At least 6 months.

## More

- [South Africa visa for every passport](/visa/south-africa)
- [Every destination for North Korea passport holders](/visa/passport/north-korea)