---
title: South Africa visa for citizens of Vietnam
description: "Citizens of Vietnam need a visa for South Africa and must apply in person at an embassy or visa centre. Stay up to 30 days. Fee: $56 + $30 service fee. Processing: 5–15 days. Documents checklist and application steps."
canonical: https://nowah.xyz/visa/south-africa/vietnam
lastModified: 2026-09-05
---

# South Africa visa for citizens of Vietnam

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.*

Official application site: https://www.vfsglobal.com/en/individuals/travel-visitors/apply-for-visa.html

## 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

- **Valid passport (with at least 2 blank pages)** (Travel): Must be valid for at least 6 months
- **Completed visa application form** (Supporting): Download from VFS Global website
- **Two recent passport-sized photographs** (Supporting): White background, 35x45mm
- **Flight itinerary (round trip)** (Travel): Confirmed or booked
- **Hotel booking confirmation** (Travel): For entire stay in South Africa
- **Bank statements (last 3 months)** (Financial): Showing sufficient funds
- **Cover letter explaining purpose of visit** (Supporting): Describe travel plans and itinerary
- **Employment letter or proof of leave** (Employment): If employed
- **Travel insurance** (Supporting, optional): Recommended but not mandatory
- **Copy of Vietnamese ID card** (Supporting): Both sides
- **Visa fee payment receipt** (Supporting): Pay online or at VFS center
- **Return envelope (for passport courier)** (Supporting, optional): If opting for courier return
- **Proof of accommodation ownership (if staying with friends)** (Travel, optional): Invitation letter and host's ID/passport copy
- **Minor's documents (if travelling with children)** (Supporting, 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.

## FAQs

### 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](https://www.vfsglobal.com/en/individuals/travel-visitors/apply-for-visa.html)

## More

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