South Africa Tourist Visa
Visitor's Visa · For Nigeria citizens
Planning a trip to South Africa as a Nigerian citizen? This guide covers everything you need for the Visitor's Visa application: required documents, current fees of ₦10,400 plus VFS service charges, processing times of 15+ working days, and strategies to improve your chances. With thorough preparation and strong documentation, you can successfully navigate the application process.
South Africa Tourist Visa for Nigerian Citizens (2025) - Document Checklist
For Nigeria citizens · VisaBeat.com
Document Checklist
Your current passport must be valid for at least 30 days beyond your intended departure from South Africa
Complete the Form BI-84 for short-term visitor visa applications
Two recent colour passport-sized photographs meeting South African specifications
Bank statements showing sufficient funds to cover your stay in South Africa
Documentation proving your employment status and income in Nigeria
A self-introduction letter explaining the purpose of your visit
Evidence of your travel arrangements to and from South Africa
Confirmed accommodation arrangements for your entire stay
Proof of yellow fever vaccination is mandatory for travellers from Nigeria
Recommended (Optional)
Documentation from your host in South Africa
Additional documentation required for minors
Application Process
All applications must be submitted through VFS Global visa application centres in Nigeria.2 The process involves the following steps:
1. Gather Required Documents
Before booking an appointment, collect all required documents including your passport, completed Form BI-84, photographs, bank statements, employment proof, flight reservation, accommodation proof, and yellow fever certificate.3 Use the VFS checklist to ensure nothing is missing.
2. Book an Appointment
Visit the VFS Global website to book an appointment at your preferred centre in Lagos, Abuja, or Port Harcourt.2 Appointments fill up quickly, so book early. Same-day walk-ins may be possible but are not guaranteed.
3. Submit Your Application
Attend your appointment with all original documents and copies. Pay the visa fee (₦10,400) and VFS service fee (₦29,400 for Lagos/Abuja or ₦49,400 for Port Harcourt) via POS at the centre.3 Your biometrics (fingerprints and photograph) may be captured at this time.
4. Wait for Processing
Processing takes a minimum of 15 working days, but can take longer.3 You will be notified when a decision has been made. Bring your original receipt to collect your passport during collection hours (10:00 to 16:00, Monday to Friday).3
Fees
| Fee Type | Lagos/Abuja | Port Harcourt |
|---|---|---|
| Visa Fee | ₦10,400 | ₦10,400 |
| VFS Service Fee | ₦29,400 | ₦49,400 |
| Total | ₦39,800 | ₦59,800 |
All fees are non-refundable and non-transferable, regardless of visa outcome.3 Payment must be made via POS at the VFS centre. Fees are subject to change based on exchange rates, so confirm current amounts before your appointment.3
What You Need to Prove
According to South African immigration requirements, you must demonstrate that you are a genuine visitor.1 This means showing:
- Genuine intention to visit for tourism and leave before your visa expires1
- Sufficient funds to cover all costs including accommodation, transport, and daily expenses1
- Confirmed accommodation for your entire stay in South Africa1
- Return travel arrangements showing you will depart South Africa1
- Strong ties to Nigeria that will compel you to return after your visit1
Nigerian applicants should focus on comprehensive documentation. Include proof of property, employment stability, and family ties to demonstrate your commitment to returning home.
Processing Times
The current minimum processing time for Visitor’s Visa applications from Nigeria is 15 working days.3 However, processing times can vary significantly based on:
- Completeness of your application
- Volume of applications being processed
- Additional verification requirements
- Individual circumstances requiring further review
Plan your application well in advance of your intended travel date. Many applicants report processing times extending beyond the minimum, so allow buffer time in your travel planning.3
After Your Visa is Approved
Once approved, your visa will be placed in your passport. Check all details carefully, including the validity dates and number of entries permitted.
At the South African border, you may be asked to show:
- Valid visa in your passport
- Return flight tickets
- Proof of accommodation
- Evidence of funds (bank cards, cash, or statements)
- Yellow fever vaccination certificate (mandatory)
- Details of your travel plans
Immigration officers have final discretion on entry, so ensure your documents are organized and ready for inspection.
If Your Visa is Refused
If your application is refused, you will receive notification of the decision. Common steps to take:
- Understand the reasons: Review any feedback provided about why your application was declined
- Address the issues: Gather stronger documentation that addresses the specific concerns raised
- Consider an appeal: You may lodge an appeal with the Department of Home Affairs if you believe an error was made
- Reapply when ready: You can submit a new application once you have addressed the deficiencies
The visa fee is non-refundable regardless of outcome. Do not reapply immediately with the same documentation. Take time to strengthen your application based on the feedback received.
Special Requirements for Minors
South Africa has strict requirements for children under 18. When travelling with minors, you must provide:1
- Unabridged birth certificate showing both parents’ details
- Parental consent affidavit if only one parent is travelling with the child
- Death certificate if one parent is deceased
- Court order if there are custody arrangements
These requirements apply both for the visa application and at the port of entry. Ensure all documents are certified and recent. South African immigration officers will check these documents carefully.
Common Rejection Reasons
Based on official refusal data for this corridor
Insufficient Financial Documentation
Bank statements do not demonstrate sufficient funds to cover the trip, show suspicious patterns like large unexplained deposits, or lack regular income credits that match employment claims.
How to avoid: Provide 3-6 months of bank statements with consistent balance and regular salary credits. Avoid large deposits in the weeks before applying. Include stamped statements from your bank showing stable financial history.
Incomplete or Missing Documents
Application is missing required documents, forms are incomplete, or documentation does not meet the specified requirements. This includes expired documents, poor quality copies, or missing signatures.
How to avoid: Use the VFS checklist to verify all documents are included. Ensure all forms are completely filled out and signed. Make clear, legible copies of all supporting documents.
Weak Ties to Nigeria
Unable to demonstrate strong reasons to return to Nigeria after the visit. Applicants without stable employment, property, or family obligations are viewed as higher risk for overstaying.
How to avoid: Include property documents, business registration, employment letters showing tenure, and evidence of family ties. Show that you have ongoing commitments in Nigeria that require your return.
Unclear Travel Purpose
The stated reason for visiting is vague, inconsistent, or not convincing. Lack of a clear itinerary or travel plans that do not match the applicant's profile raises concerns.
How to avoid: Provide a detailed cover letter explaining your purpose. Include a day-by-day itinerary if possible. If visiting family or friends, provide proper invitation letters with host documentation.
Previous Immigration Issues
History of visa refusals, overstays, or violations in South Africa or other countries creates concerns about future compliance with immigration rules.
How to avoid: Be completely honest about previous issues. Provide evidence of changed circumstances and explain how your situation has improved. Never hide past refusals as this will be discovered.
Inconsistent Information
Information in the application does not match across documents. Salary figures differ between employment letter and bank statements, or dates and details are contradictory.
How to avoid: Double-check all information for consistency before submitting. Ensure salary in employment letter matches bank credits exactly. Provide explanation letters for any discrepancies.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long can I stay in South Africa on a tourist visa?
The Visitor's Visa allows you to stay for up to 90 days per visit. If you need to stay longer, you must apply for an extension or a different visa category. You cannot switch visa types from within South Africa.
How long does South Africa visa processing take from Nigeria?
Standard processing takes a minimum of 15 working days, but can take longer depending on individual circumstances. Each application is assessed individually, so plan your application well in advance of your travel dates.
What is the South Africa tourist visa fee for Nigerians in 2025?
The visa fee is ₦10,400. Additionally, VFS Global charges a service fee of ₦29,400 for applications in Lagos and Abuja, or ₦49,400 for Port Harcourt. All fees are non-refundable and payable via POS at VFS centres.
Do I need a yellow fever vaccine for South Africa?
Yes, a yellow fever vaccination certificate is mandatory for Nigerian citizens travelling to South Africa. You must be vaccinated at least 10 days before your travel date. The International Certificate of Vaccination (Yellow Card) must be presented at the airport.
Can I apply for a South Africa visa online?
South Africa has introduced an eVisa system through the Department of Home Affairs portal (ehome.dha.gov.za). However, for Nigerian applicants, the primary method remains through VFS Global visa application centres in Lagos, Abuja, or Port Harcourt.
Where can I submit my South Africa visa application in Nigeria?
VFS Global operates visa application centres in Lagos (Lekki Phase I), Abuja (Central Business District), and Port Harcourt. You can book an appointment online through the VFS Global website after preparing your documents.
Do I need to book flights before applying?
You need a flight reservation or itinerary showing your intended travel dates, but you should not purchase non-refundable tickets until your visa is approved. A flight booking that can be cancelled is sufficient for the application.
What happens if my visa is refused?
If refused, you can appeal the decision or reapply with improved documentation addressing the issues raised. The visa fee is non-refundable regardless of the outcome. Ensure you understand the refusal reasons before reapplying.
Can I work on a South Africa tourist visa?
No, the Visitor's Visa does not permit any form of paid or unpaid work in South Africa. If you intend to work, you must apply for an appropriate work visa before travelling.
What if I am travelling with children?
South Africa has strict requirements for minors. You must provide an unabridged birth certificate, parental consent if one parent is not travelling, and additional documentation depending on the circumstances. These rules apply at both the visa application and border entry.