South Africa Visa Application Procedure from Cameroon
Obtaining a visa for South Africa from Cameroon requires a good understanding of the steps and documents required, which vary depending on the type of visa requested. This detailed guide presents the procedures for each applicant profile and includes useful links to guide you throughout the process.
1. Types of Visas for South Africa
Visit Visa (Short Stay)
For a stay of less than 90 days. This type of visa is suitable for tourist trips, family visits, and business trips. It allows you to stay in South Africa for a limited period without the intention of residing permanently.
Learn more about the Visit Visa
Long Stay Visa
For stays longer than 90 days, usually required for studies, work, or family reunification. These visas allow you to live in South Africa for longer while having temporary status.
View information on the Long Stay Visa
Study Visa
For students who have been accepted to a South African university or educational institution to continue their studies. This visa is required for any program duration exceeding three months.
Work Visa
For Cameroonians with a job offer in South Africa. This visa covers several categories, including skilled workers, researchers, and temporary workers.
Detailed information on the Work Visa
Visa for Family Reunification
For family members joining a relative residing in South Africa (spouse, children, parents).
Learn more about Family Reunification
2. Steps of Visa Application
Step 1 : Select Visa Type
Each applicant must first define the visa that corresponds to his purpose of stay. This step is crucial to prepare the right documents and meet the specific requirements of the chosen visa.
Step 2: Prepare the Necessary Documents
The required documents vary depending on the type of visa, but some elements are common to all applications:
- Visa application form : Complete the form available on the VFS Global website or at the South African Embassy.
- Valid Cameroonian passport : It must be valid for at least 30 days after the intended departure date for short-stay visas, and 12 months for long-stay visas.
- Recent passport photos that comply with South Africa’s requirements.
- Travel insurance : Covering health and repatriation risks for visit visas.
- Visa fees : Payable upon submission of the application (amounts vary depending on the type of visa).
3. Specific Requirements by Visa Type
A. Visit Visa (Short Stay)
- Invitation Letter : Invitation from the host in South Africa (family, friend or business contact) or confirmed hotel reservation.
- Proof of Financial Means : Bank statements for the last three months or letter of support from a sponsor in South Africa.
- Travel Itinerary : Round-trip airfare or reservation.
South Africa Visit Visa
B. Long Stay Visa
For stays of more than 90 days, the required documents differ depending on the type of long stay:
1.Study Visa:
Admission letter from the South African institution.
Proof of financial means to cover tuition and living expenses (bank guarantee, support, or scholarship).
Recent medical certificate and certificate of good character (criminal record).
2. Work Visa:
- Employment contract signed by a South African company.
- Work permit issued by the South African Department of Home Affairs, obtained by the employer.
- Proof of qualifications and skills required for the position.
South African Work Visa
3. Family Reunification:
- Proof of family relationship (marriage certificate for spouses, birth certificate for children).
- Proof of residence of the family member in South Africa.
- Proof of financial means of the person in South Africa.
Family Reunification Visa Details
4. Making an Appointment for Submission of the Application
South Africa visa applications are submitted through VFS Global in Yaoundé, the official visa processing centre for South Africa in Cameroon.
- Book an appointment online : Mandatory appointment to submit documents and biometrics. Appointment available through the VFS Global website.
- Submission of documents and interview (if required) : Some visas require an interview; the applicant will be informed of this when booking the appointment.
Book an appointment online with VFS Global
5. Processing Times and Monitoring of the Request
Visa processing times may vary :
Visiting Visa (Short Stay) : Typically processed within 10-15 business days.
Long Stay Visa: Approximately 4-8 weeks, depending on the complexity of the application.
Processing times may be extended during peak demand periods. Applicants can track their visa application online through the VFS Global portal.
Track your application with VFS Global
6. Visa Decision and Recovery
After a decision, the VFS Global center will inform you of the availability of your passport for collection. In case of refusal, a detailed explanation of the reasons will be provided and appeal options may be considered if necessary.
Useful Links for Applicants
South African Department of Home Affairs Official information on South African visas and eligibility criteria.
Embassy of South Africa in Cameroon For further information and local contacts.
VFS Global - South Africa Visa Application Center For appointment scheduling, list of required documents, and tracking of your application.
Study in South Africa - Official Website and Guide for International Students.
Conclusion
Immigration 360 Degree is here to support you at every stage of your South Africa visa application. Whether for studies, work, family reunification, or a short stay, our team helps you prepare a solid file and avoid common mistakes. Contact us to benefit from a personalized service and maximize your chances of success in your immigration process in South Africa.