Section 18 of the Immigration Act 13 of 2002 (as amended)
Study Visa
The Study Visa (also called a Study Permit) allows foreign nationals to undertake full-time study at an accredited South African educational institution — a university, college, school, or registered training provider. You must provide proof of acceptance by the institution, evidence of sufficient funds to cover tuition fees and living expenses, and demonstrate that your stay is genuinely for study purposes. Work is limited to 20 hours per week during the academic term.
Processing time
4–8 weeks
Validity
Duration of the course (up to 4 years), renewable
You may not work more than 20 hours per week while on a Study Visa during the academic term. Working without authorisation or exceeding 20 hours is a violation that can result in deportation and a future ban from South Africa.
Phase one
Check Your Eligibility
Confirm you meet all the requirements below before gathering any documents. A missing eligibility criterion means a refused application.
Acceptance by an Accredited SA Institution
You must have a letter of acceptance from a South African educational institution that is accredited by the relevant body (e.g., the Council on Higher Education for universities, the Education and Training Quality Assurance bodies for other institutions). You must be registered or enrolling as a full-time student.
Tip: Check that your institution is accredited — applying to an unaccredited institution will result in visa refusal. The CHE database lists accredited institutions in South Africa.
Sufficient Financial Means
You must demonstrate you have sufficient funds to cover your tuition fees for the duration of your course AND your living expenses while in South Africa. Bank statements, bursary or scholarship letters, or a financial undertaking from a sponsor or parent/guardian are acceptable.
Tip: Be thorough with financial proof — show funds that comfortably cover both tuition and monthly living costs. DHA wants to be satisfied that you will not be a financial burden on the state.
Genuinely Intending to Study
Your application must demonstrate that your purpose in South Africa is genuinely to study. DHA may consider your study pathway, your academic record, and the nature of the institution and course.
Tip: Choose a course that aligns logically with your academic or career path. Applications for courses that seem inconsistent with your background or goals may attract greater scrutiny.
No Criminal Record
You must have no unspent criminal record in South Africa or any country where you have lived for 12+ months in the past 10 years.
Tip: Order police clearances early — they are often the longest-lead document for student applicants.
Medical Fitness
A medical certificate (Form BI-811) from a DHA-approved practitioner is required, along with a radiology report if applicable based on your nationality or circumstances.
Tip: Book your DHA-approved medical appointment early — approved practitioners can be busy during peak application periods.
Phase two
Gather Your Documents
Start with the longest lead times. Police clearances and foreign qualification evaluations typically take the longest. Begin those immediately.
Phase three
The Application Process
Follow these steps from eligibility check through to receiving your visa or permit.
Apply and Get Accepted
Varies by institutionSecure your acceptance at an accredited South African institution before starting the visa process.
- 1Research and apply to an accredited SA institution
- 2Confirm the institution is accredited by the CHE or relevant quality body
- 3Receive and keep your official acceptance letter
- 4Arrange and pay your tuition deposit or first semester fees
- 5Book student accommodation if applicable
Gather Your Documents
4–8 weeksBegin collecting documents as soon as you receive your acceptance letter. Police clearances take the longest.
- 1Apply for police clearances from all required jurisdictions
- 2Book your DHA-approved medical appointment
- 3Collect proof of financial means (bank statements, bursary letters)
- 4Arrange proof of accommodation
- 5Obtain proof of medical aid cover
- 6Complete the BI-1738 application form
Book and Submit at VFS Global
1 dayBook your VFS Global appointment and submit your complete application package.
- 1Book at VFS Global (https://visa.vfsglobal.com/zaf/en/dha)
- 2Attend with all originals and required copies
- 3Pay the VFS service fee (~R1,520) and biometric fee (~R230)
- 4Receive your application reference number
Await the Decision
4–8 weeksProcessing takes 4–8 weeks for complete applications. Track your application on the VFS portal.
- 1Track your application via the VFS Global or DHA portal
- 2Respond quickly to any information requests
- 3Book your flights once you have a visa decision date
Collect Your Visa
1 dayCollect your passport with study visa endorsement from VFS Global.
- 1Collect your passport from VFS Global or via courier
- 2Verify the visa details — institution name, validity, and work conditions
- 3Note your visa conditions — you may only work up to 20 hours per week during term
Book your VFS Global appointment
Applications are submitted through VFS Global South Africa. Book your appointment and upload your documents online.
Visit VFS Global SASummary
Cost overview
All fees are estimates and subject to change. Verify current amounts directly with VFS Global, DHA, and relevant authorities before submitting your application.
Sources: Immigration Act 13 of 2002, section 18; Immigration Regulations (GN 413 of 2014, as amended); VFS Global South Africa (https://visa.vfsglobal.com/zaf/en/dha); Department of Home Affairs (https://www.dha.gov.za). Verify all fees and current requirements with VFS Global or DHA before applying.
Ready to check off every document?
Use the interactive checklist to track your progress.