Thursday, September 17, 2009

South Africa Visa Application Frequently Asked Questions

What is a South Africa Visa?

A South Africa visa is a stamp or endorsement placed by officials of South Africa on a passport that allows the bearer to visit South Africa. Visas are obtained from the Embassy or consulates of South Africa for your visit. "Visit" is further defined as the reason for entry, usually business, tourist or transitory. There are over 270 countries that offer visas and literally thousands of different types of visas available based upon country, type of visit, and length of visit.

What is the difference between a passport and a South Africa visa?
A passport is an official government document that certifies one's identity and citizenship. The passport serves two purposes; to regain entry to the country of citizenship (i.e. the United States) and is a requirement by many countries to gain entry to the country you are visiting. A South Africa visa is an official government document that temporarily authorizes you to be in the country. Many countries require a visa to gain entry. A visa is in the form of a stamp/sticker IN the passport and is obtained from an Embassy in Washington DC or consulates around the country. South Africa does not require a visa for tourist or business purposes for United States citizens. You will require a US passport with at least 6 months of validity left.

Who needs a South Africa visa?

All US Citizens do not require a visa to travel to South Africa, whether for business or tourism for short-term stays; however, you will need a US Passport.

What is the difference between a South Africa tourist and South Africa business visa?

South Africa visas are issued according to the purpose of the trip; choose the visa that best describes your trip:

Activities which require a South Africa Tourist Visa

Tourism trip; visits to relatives and/or friends; scientists, professors or researchers attending cultural, technological or scientific conferences, seminars or meetings (services provided must not be paid by organizations/corporations in South Africa, except reimbursement for expenses or per diem allowances); unpaid participation in athletic or performing arts events or competitions. Tourist visa holders are not allowed to engage in any paid activity in South Africa.

Activities which require a South Africa Business Visa

Business trips, except when the trip involves the provision of technical assistance services of any nature.

How long does it take to obtain a South Africa visa?

Typically, a visa takes anywhere from 2 days to 15 days to process in the South Africa Embassy/Consulate depending on the consulate that we need to send the application to and whether you choose to "rush" your South Africa visa.

No comments:

Post a Comment