Are you seeking a unique and unforgettable language-learning adventure? Consider enrolling in an English language course in South Africa. Beyond the classroom, you will experience the breathtaking thrill of encountering exotic wildlife in their natural habitat.
In addition to world-class safaris, South Africa offers a diverse landscape featuring stunning coastlines, majestic mountain ranges, and picturesque scenery at every turn.
While South Africa's vibrant, multicultural society is welcoming to everyone, you will find plenty of opportunities to immerse yourself in authentic local culture. If you plan to study at an English language school, you will likely need to apply for a study visa. Most accredited institutions are located in major hubs like Cape Town, Johannesburg, Port Elizabeth, and Pretoria.
Check if you need a visa for South Africa
Citizens of certain countries may be exempt from visa requirements for stays up to 90 days. Before starting your application, confirm the total duration of your chosen English language program.
Review the official list of countries exempt from visa requirements for entry into South Africa.
If your home country is not on the exemption list or if your language course exceeds 90 days, you must apply for a formal South African study visa.
Specific features of the study visa for South Africa
1. You must apply for a study visa even for short-term language courses; this follows the same legal process as higher education enrollment. Applications should be submitted to your nearest South African embassy or consulate.
2. To qualify, your school must be registered with the Department of Basic Education or the Department of Higher Education. Always verify the institution's accreditation status before applying.
3. It is important to note that a South African visa is technically a travel authorization that allows you to arrive at a port of entry. Final admission to the country is determined by an immigration officer who will verify your documentation upon arrival.
4. Upon entry, you will be issued a residence permit that officially grants you the right to stay in South Africa for the specified duration and purpose of your studies.
Useful tips in applying for a study visa for South Africa
- Apply for your visa at least four weeks before your departure for South Africa.
- The study visa is granted only for a period of three months. If your language course lasts longer than three months or wish to apply for an additional language course, you will have to re-new your visa.
- Apply for a new study visa at least 60 days prior to the expiry of your study permit.
- You have the option to change your visa status or re-new it while you are still in South Africa so it’s not necessary to go back to your home country.
- The processing time for a study visa application submitted in South Africa is between four and eight weeks.
Required documents for the South African studies or language learning
Ensure you have all required documentation ready for your visa application as mandated by the relevant consulate.
- A passport or travel document (valid for at least another 30 days after your intended visit ends)
- Your passport must have at least two unused page for entry / departure endorsements
- A completed Form BI-84 (application for a visa)
- Proof of payment of the visa application fee
- A yellow-fever vaccination certificate *(if required)
- Statement and/or documentation confirming the purpose and duration of your stay
- Two colour passport photographs
- A return plane ticket (if you are travelling by air)
- Proof of financial means to pay for your living expenses while in South Africa (3,000 African Rands per month – the equivalent of 200 USD)
* Travelers arriving from countries at risk of yellow fever must provide a valid vaccination certificate upon arrival.
Medical checks before travelling to South Africa
Although not strictly mandatory for visa approval, The Centres for Disease Control and Prevention strongly recommends consulting a medical professional for necessary immunizations and health precautions before your travel.
Recommended vaccinations for travelers visiting South Africa include protection against common regional health risks.
- Hepatitis A vaccine – recommended as you can get hepatitis A through contaminated food or water regardless of where you are eating or staying.
- Typhoid vaccine – recommended as you can get typhoid through contaminated food or water, especially if you visit smaller cities or rural areas.
Contact your local South Africa embassy for any details
For specific inquiries or guidance regarding your travel plans, please contact your nearest South African embassy, consulate, or the Department of Home Affairs in South Africa for the most current information.
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