How to apply online with VFS Global South Africa


VFS Global offers online applications of residence visas in South Africa. To apply online for a visa in South Africa, follow the figures before.


Step 1 :

Visit the Department of Home Affairs website for more information.

Apply for a visa or permit online on the VFS Website. Follow the steps below to apply for a visa or permit at the Centre:

  1. You will need to fill the correct online form.
  2. Pay the mandatory fee of R1350 in order to schedule an appointment after application form filling.
  3. Pay the relevant fees online via three methods: Prepayment at Standard Bank branches using the system generated bank deposit slip or by Credit / Debit card or EFT (Electronic Funds Transfer). Any outstanding fees can be paid at the Visa Facilitation Centre by debit / credit card. No payments will be collected in cash at the Visa Facilitation Centre.
  4. Check all required documents required for the application.

Step 2 :

On the day of your appointment please plan to arrive 15 minutes early at the Visa Facilitation Centre. Bring your appointment letter, printed online application form, proof of payment and supporting documents, along with a valid passport or travel document.

When you arrive at the Visa Facilitation Centre you will collect a token. Wait until your token is called to make your application. Once the visa application process is completed you will be issued with an acknowledgment receipt. Please keep your receipt safe as you will need this later to collect your documents. The decision will be handed over on submitting this receipt.

Important note: You will not be able to submit further documents once your application has been submitted at the Visa Facilitation Centre. The documents that you submitted at the time you made your application will be the only documents that are considered.

Step 3 :

You will need to arrange for supporting documents for your visa or permit application. If you do not know which supporting documents to provide, the Visa Types page will help you to find guidance for your visa category.

Step 4 :

Enroll your fingerprints and photograph at the Visa Facilitation Centre. This includes a digital finger scan (all 10 digits) and a digital photograph. The finger scan procedure uses an electronic scanner. No ink, liquid or chemical. You should ensure that your fingertips are free from any forms of decoration (for example, henna), cuts, abrasions or other markings as these may affect your ability to provide acceptable finger scans. Your digital photograph must be taken with full face and without sunglasses or tinted spectacles, or head covering unless it is worn for religious or medical reasons. Your face should be clearly visible with no hair across the eyes. We cannot process your visa if you do not submit your biometric information. All children and infants will also provide their biometric data as required by Department of Home Affairs.

Step 5 :

Choose whether you would prefer to collect your documents in person at the Visa Facilitation Centre or have a representative collect the decision on your behalf. Original passport is required to collect the decision. In case original passport is not available at the time of collection, VFS Global shall not handover the decision to the applicant or representative. A representative needs to carry an authorization letter with name of the applicant and his passport number followed by name and ID number of the representative collecting the application. The representative is requested to carry a copy of the ID along with authority letter which will be retained by VFS Global