Indian citizens planning to visit South Africa must prepare a comprehensive set of documents to demonstrate eligibility and support their visa application. You need a valid passport that remains valid for at least 30 days beyond your intended departure date and contains at least two blank pages for visa endorsement. The application must include a completed and signed South African visa application form (DHA-84). You must submit two recent colour passport-sized photographs that meet the prescribed specifications. Proof of sufficient funds, typically shown through bank statements for the last 3–6 months with a reasonable balance, is essential, and financial evidence must be original and properly certified by the bank. Applicants should include a confirmed return or onward flight ticket, as well as proof of accommodation such as hotel bookings or a host invitation letter with their contact details. A detailed day-to-day travel itinerary outlining your planned activities and duration in South Africa is usually required. In certain cases, health documents like a Yellow Fever Vaccination Certificate may be necessary if you’re arriving from or transiting through high-risk regions. Additional supporting papers such as a cover letter explaining the purpose of the visit, employment proof (salary slips/ITR), NOC from employer, marriage/birth certificates for family applications, and any invitation letters from relatives or business contacts can strengthen your application and clarify your travel intent. All documents should be in English or accompanied by certified translations if originally in another language.

South Africa Travel Checklist (For Indian Travellers)

Before You Apply

• ✔ Valid Passport (6+ months validity recommended)

• ✔ Visa Application Form (accurately completed and signed)

• ✔ Two Recent Photos (passport size)

• ✔ Cover Letter stating purpose and travel details

• ✔ Financial Documents (bank statements, ITRs, proof of funds)

Travel Arrangements

• ✔ Return/Onward Flight Tickets

• ✔ Accommodation Proof (hotel booking or host details)

• ✔ Detailed Travel Itinerary

• ✔ Travel Insurance (recommended)

Health & Safety

• ✔ Yellow Fever Certificate (if applicable)

• ✔ Routine Vaccinations (hepatitis, typhoid, etc., recommended)

At the Visa Submission

• ✔ Original documents + copies

• ✔ Appointment confirmation (if required)

• ✔ Visa fee and VFS service fee paid receipt

Before Departure

• ✔ Passport & Visa securely stamped

• ✔ Printouts of tickets, accommodation, insurance

• ✔ Emergency contacts (embassy, hotel, tour operator)

• ✔ Local currency (South African Rand) & cards

• ✔ Travel adapters and mobile connectivity sorted.

Documents Required for South Africa Visa (Indian Citizens)

To apply for a South Africa visa, Indian travellers must submit the following mandatory documents:

1. Passport

• Must be valid for at least 30 days after your return date.

• Must have 2 blank pages for visa stamps.

• Old passports (if any) should also be included.

2. Visa Application Form (DHA-84)

• Must be completely filled and signed by the applicant.

• Use black ink and block letters.

3. Passport-sized Photographs

• Two recent colour photographs.

• White background, clear face visibility.

4. Cover Letter

• Explaining the purpose of visit.

• Travel dates, duration, and itinerary.

• Personal profile and assurance of return to India.

5. Travel Itinerary

• Detailed day-wise plan of your trip.

• Not required to be fully confirmed but must be realistic.

6. Flight Tickets

• Confirmed return or onward flight booking.

7. Proof of Accommodation

• Hotel booking or

• Invitation letter from a host in South Africa (with ID proof, address, contact number).

8. Bank Statements

• Original bank statements for the last 3–6 months.

• Must be stamped and signed by the bank.

• Should show sufficient balance to cover your entire trip.

9. Income Tax Returns (ITR)

• Last 2 years ITR copies recommended.

10. Employment Proof

(If employed)

• Salary slips for last 3 months

• No Objection Certificate (NOC) from employer

(If self-employed)

• Company registration proof / GST certificate

• Business bank statements

11. Identity & Status Documents

• Aadhaar / PAN card copy

• Marriage certificate (if spouse is travelling)

• For minors: birth certificate + NOC from parents

12. Travel Insurance (Recommended)

• Coverage for medical emergencies during your stay.

13. Yellow Fever Certificate

• Only required if you are coming from or transiting through a yellow-fever-risk country.