United States Tourist Visa
B1/B2 Visitor Visa · For South Africa citizens
Planning a trip to the United States as a South African citizen? This guide covers everything you need for the B1/B2 tourist visa application: required documents, current fees of $185, interview preparation tips, and strategies to improve your approval chances. The visa is valid for up to 10 years with multiple entries.
US Tourist Visa for South African Citizens (2025) - Document Checklist
For South Africa citizens · VisaBeat.com
Document Checklist
Your passport must be valid for at least six months beyond your planned stay in the United States
Complete the online DS-160 nonimmigrant visa application form
Recent photograph meeting US visa photo requirements
Documentation proving you have sufficient funds for your trip
Documentation proving your employment status and ties to South Africa
Evidence demonstrating your intention to return to South Africa
In-person interview at the US Embassy or Consulate
Recommended (Optional)
Details of your planned trip to the United States
Application Process
The US B1/B2 visa application involves several steps that must be completed in order.1
1. Complete DS-160 Form
Fill out the online DS-160 nonimmigrant visa application form at the Consular Electronic Application Center.4 Upload a digital photo meeting US visa specifications. Print the confirmation page with the barcode.
2. Pay Visa Fee
Pay the $185 non-refundable application fee.3 Keep your receipt as you will need the payment confirmation number to schedule your interview.
3. Schedule Interview
Create a profile on the US visa appointment website and schedule your interview at the US Embassy in Pretoria or Consulates in Johannesburg, Cape Town, or Durban.2 Wait times vary by location and season.
4. Gather Documents
Prepare all required and supporting documents. Organize them logically for easy reference during your interview.
5. Attend Interview
Arrive at the embassy or consulate on time with all documents.2 You will have your fingerprints scanned and answer questions from a consular officer. The interview typically lasts 3-5 minutes.
6. Wait for Processing
Most applications receive a decision immediately after the interview. If approved, your passport with visa will be available for pickup or delivery within a few days. Some applications require additional administrative processing.
Fees
| Service | Cost |
|---|---|
| B1/B2 Visa Application | $185 |
| Visa Issuance Fee (if applicable) | Varies |
The application fee is non-refundable regardless of the visa decision.3 Payment can be made at designated banks or online.
What You Need to Prove
Under Section 214(b) of the Immigration and Nationality Act, you must demonstrate that you:1
- Are a genuine visitor with a legitimate purpose for your trip
- Have strong ties to South Africa that will compel you to return
- Have sufficient funds to cover your trip without working illegally
- Intend to depart the US at the end of your authorized stay
- Have no immigrant intent and do not plan to remain permanently
Interview Tips
The visa interview is your opportunity to convince the consular officer of your genuine intent. Key strategies include:
- Be confident and honest in all your answers
- Keep answers brief and to the point
- Bring organized documents but only present them if asked
- Demonstrate ties to South Africa clearly
- Know your travel plan in detail
- Remain calm even if questioned intensively
After Your Visa is Approved
Once approved, your visa will be placed in your passport. When you travel:
- Present your passport with visa at the US port of entry
- Answer the immigration officer’s questions about your visit
- Receive your Form I-94 indicating your authorized stay duration
- You may stay up to the date shown on your I-94, not the visa expiration date
If Your Visa is Refused
If refused, you will typically receive a refusal under Section 214(b). You can:
- Reapply when you have new information or circumstances have changed
- Strengthen your application by addressing the reasons for refusal
- Wait for changed circumstances such as new employment or property
There is no appeal process for B1/B2 visa refusals, but you can reapply at any time.
Common Rejection Reasons
Based on official refusal data for this corridor
Insufficient Ties to Home Country
The consular officer was not convinced you have strong enough reasons to return to South Africa after your visit, such as stable employment, property, or family obligations.
How to avoid: Bring proof of stable employment (2+ years preferred), property ownership, family dependents, or ongoing business commitments. Clearly explain what brings you back to South Africa.
Inadequate Financial Evidence
Unable to demonstrate sufficient funds to cover your trip and expenses in the United States without needing to work illegally.
How to avoid: Show 6 months of bank statements with healthy balance. Include salary slips, tax returns, and fixed deposits. Your finances should clearly exceed your trip costs.
Unconvincing Travel Purpose
The stated purpose of visit seemed implausible or the consular officer suspected ulterior motives for the trip.
How to avoid: Have a clear, specific, and realistic travel plan. If visiting family or friends, bring their invitation and proof of legal status. Be prepared to explain exactly what you will do in the US.
Previous Immigration Issues
History of visa refusals, overstays, or violations in the US or other countries raised concerns about compliance with immigration rules.
How to avoid: Be honest about previous issues. If you have prior refusals, bring evidence of changed circumstances since then.
Inconsistent or Incomplete Information
Information provided in the DS-160 form contradicted interview answers or supporting documents.
How to avoid: Review your DS-160 carefully before the interview. Ensure all dates, employment history, and travel history are accurate and consistent.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long can I stay in the US on a B1/B2 visa?
The B1/B2 visa can allow stays of up to 180 days (6 months) per visit. The exact duration is determined by the immigration officer at the port of entry and stamped on your Form I-94. You must leave before this date.
How long is the US tourist visa valid?
South African citizens typically receive B1/B2 visas valid for up to 10 years with multiple entries. This means you can travel to the US multiple times during that period without reapplying.
What is the US tourist visa fee for South Africans in 2025?
The B1/B2 visa application fee is $185. This is non-refundable regardless of whether your visa is approved or denied. There may be additional fees for visa issuance depending on reciprocity agreements.
How long does US visa processing take?
Processing times vary significantly based on embassy workload and individual circumstances. After your interview, most applications are processed within days, but some may require additional administrative processing that can take weeks or months.
Do I need an interview for a US visa?
Yes, nearly all first-time B1/B2 applicants must attend an in-person interview at the US Embassy or Consulate. Some applicants renewing visas may qualify for interview waiver programs.
Can I work on a US tourist visa?
No, the B1/B2 visa does not permit any form of employment in the United States. Working without authorization can result in deportation and future visa ineligibility.
What questions are asked in the US visa interview?
Common questions include: Why are you visiting the US? How long do you plan to stay? Where will you stay? Who will pay for your trip? What do you do for work? What ties do you have to South Africa? Answer honestly and concisely.
What happens if my US visa is refused?
You will be told the reason under the relevant section of immigration law. Most refusals are under Section 214(b), meaning the officer was not convinced you would return home. You can reapply, but should address the concerns from your previous application.