South Africa Study Visa - Definitive Guide

The South Africa study visa for Indians is an endorsement that lets Indian students take up various courses in South African educational institutions. Almost all the nationals require a study visa to take up courses in the country. The student visa is granted for a stay duration as long as the duration of the course. However, it cannot be granted for more than 4 years in the case of higher education and training, and cannot be granted for more than 8 years for primary school and 5 years for secondary school. 

The application for the student permit is done offline. Before starting the application, you must ensure that you are eligible to travel to the country on a student category. You can then make the application as follows - 

1. Gather all the documents required for the student visa. 
2. Visit the website of the South African Home Affairs. 
3. Fill in the South Africa study visa application form (DHA-1738) with all your details.
4. Along with the documents and application form, visit one of the South Africa High Commission authorized Visa Application Centers (VAC) to submit the application.  

Note that you will have to provide your biometrics at the VAC. As a result, they will be taking your digital photograph, as well as fingerprint scans. 

Also, ensure that you provide correct information and genuine documents. Providing false information and fake documents are grounds for visa rejection.

There are certain criteria that need to be fulfilled at the time of applying for a student visa for South Africa from India. These are as follows -

• You must have proof of confirmed visit

• Your purpose of the visit must be to take up an academic course/training.
• You must have a confirmed letter of acceptance from the educational institution.
• You must meet the health requirements

• You must be healthy enough to travel to South Africa.
• You will need to undergo a general medical test from a registered practitioner and provide a certificate of the same
• You will need to undergo a radiology test from a registered radiologist and provide a certificate of the same.
• You must meet the character requirements

• You must be of good character and have genuine intentions behind visiting South Africa.
• You will need to submit a Police Clearance Certificate (PCC) to prove the same.
• You must have sufficient funds

• • • You must possess or have access to sufficient funds to be able to cover your stay and other expenses in the country. You will need at least INR 13650 per month for your total stay duration. 

Based on your individual case and age, there will be additional eligibility to meet. To know the exact requirements for your case, do consult with a reputed travel agency.

As per the requirements by the South African high commission, you will need the following South Africa study visa documents - 

• A passport valid for at least 6 months from the date of intended travel.
• Filled application form.
• 2 Photos as per the specifications.
• Original covering letter from the applicant.
• Letter confirming your acceptance into the educational institution.
• Medical report stating your general health condition.
• Radiology report with regard to active pulmonary TB (Tuberculosis).
• Bank statements for the past 3 months.
• Police Clearance Certificate (PCC).

• South Africa study visa photo size: 35mm X 45mm
• Colour: Coloured
• Head must occupy the central position
• Must be captured within the last 3 months
• Background: Solid, plain white or grey
• 80% face coverage
• Neutral expression
• Glasses: Non-thick framed and prescription glasses
• Headgears - only for religious reasons
• Facial hair - permitted

The total cost for South Africa study visa is dependent on the foreign exchange rates and the high commission’s decided fees at the time. Apart from the general visa fees, there will be charges for the medical tests, VAC service charges, and other costs. As a result, ensure that you check the exact amount before starting your application. 

The time taken to process the student visa application can vary as per the duration of your course, the volume of applications at the High Commission, verification of your documents, and so on. Normally, in most cases, it will need a minimum of 60 days from the date of submission at the VAC. As a result, ensure that you apply well in advance. 

Once you have submitted the application at the VAC, it is then sent to the nearest South African diplomatic mission for the processing. This is either the South African high commission in New Delhi or the consulate general of South Africa in Mumbai. Note that the VAC has no influence over the processing and the decision making of the visa. While it is processed, the high commission may demand a personal interview in certain cases. 

After a decision has been made, you can either collect the passport from the VAC or have them deliver it to you for an additional charge. 

You can check the status of your application by clicking here, and entering the reference number and date of birth. Alternately, you may contact the travel agency you have applied through to know the status.

On successfully obtaining your study visa, you must keep in mind the following few points to ensure that you have a hassle-free trip to South Africa-

• Before you travel - 
  • Note the validity and stay duration mentioned on your visa. You must not stay in the country beyond this period. 
  • Carry all your travel documents before you travel to the country. 
• At the border
  • You must show your passport with the visa to the immigration officer. Your entry stamp will be stamped on the passport.
  • You may be asked to show the copy of the other documents submitted as part of your application. 
  • You may be asked about the basic details of your visit. Ensure that you answer honestly and without any hesitance. 
• When you enter South Africa
  • While you are on a student permit, you may be able to take part in part-time work for up to 20 hours per week during term-time, and full time during vacations. 
  • You can extend this visa.
  • Carry a copy of your passport and visa while you are travelling within the country.
  • You must respect the culture and customs of the country, as well as abide by the immigration laws during your stay.