Vietnam passport → South Africa

South Africa visa for citizens of Vietnam

Embassy / VFSVisa · Tourist (90 days)

Citizens of Vietnam 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 · Visa · Tourist (90 days)
How to apply	In-person at an embassy or visa center
Maximum stay	Up to 30 days
Visa validity	90 days
Entries	Single entry
Processing time	5–15 days
Government fee	$56 + $30 service fee
Passport validity	At least 6 months
Biometrics	Required
Appointment	Required
Interview	Not required
Onward or return ticket	Required
Proof of funds	Bank statements for last 3 months

How to apply

1
Prepare documents
Gather all required documents as listed above.
2
Complete online application
Fill in the visa application form on the VFS Global website.
3
Pay visa fee
Pay government fee and service charge online via VFS Global.
4
Schedule appointment
Book an appointment at the nearest VFS Global center in Vietnam (e.g., Hanoi or Ho Chi Minh City).
5
Visit VFS center to submit biometrics and documents
Attend in person for fingerprinting and photo submission.
6
Track application status
Use VFS tracking service online with reference number.
7
Collect passport
Once processed, collect passport from VFS center or receive by courier.

Documents checklist

Travel

Valid passport (with at least 2 blank pages)
Must be valid for at least 6 months
Flight itinerary (round trip)
Confirmed or booked
Hotel booking confirmation
For entire stay in South Africa
Proof of accommodation ownership (if staying with friends)
Optional
Invitation letter and host's ID/passport copy

Financial

Bank statements (last 3 months)
Showing sufficient funds

Employment

Employment letter or proof of leave
If employed

Supporting

Completed visa application form
Download from VFS Global website
Two recent passport-sized photographs
White background, 35x45mm
Cover letter explaining purpose of visit
Describe travel plans and itinerary
Travel insurance
Optional
Recommended but not mandatory
Copy of Vietnamese ID card
Both sides
Visa fee payment receipt
Pay online or at VFS center
Return envelope (for passport courier)
Optional
If opting for courier return
Minor's documents (if travelling with children)
Optional
Birth certificate and parental consent

Proof of funds

Minimum balance: Equivalent of $500 USD per person for the trip

Bank statements
Savings account statements
Fixed deposit certificates

Statements must be original and stamped by bank if possible.

Good to know

Visa processing may take longer during peak seasons (e.g., December to January).
VFS Global appointment slots can be limited; book well in advance.
Incomplete applications may be rejected without refund.

Common refusal reasons

Insufficient bank balance or unclear source of funds

Provide clear, original bank statements showing consistent balance for at least 3 months prior to application.

Invalid or expired passport

Ensure passport is valid for at least 6 months from date of intended departure to South Africa.

Incomplete application form or missing documents

Double-check all required documents and complete the form accurately.

Failure to attend biometric appointment

Attend the scheduled appointment on time; reschedule if necessary.

FAQ

Do citizens of Vietnam need a visa for South Africa?

Citizens of Vietnam need a visa for South Africa and must apply in person at an embassy or visa centre. Visa type: Visa · Tourist (90 days).

How long can citizens of Vietnam stay in South Africa?

Up to 30 days.

How much does the South Africa visa cost for citizens of Vietnam?

Government fee: $56 + $30 service fee.

How long does South Africa visa processing take?

Typically 5–15 days.

What documents do citizens of Vietnam need for South Africa?

Valid passport (with at least 2 blank pages); Completed visa application form; Two recent passport-sized photographs; Flight itinerary (round trip); Hotel booking confirmation; Bank statements (last 3 months); 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: https://www.vfsglobal.com/en/individuals/travel-visitors/apply-for-visa.html

Sources

vfsglobal.com

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