Visa free countries for South Africans 2024

Traveling can bring rich experiences of multiple cultures, various foods, and amazing landscapes to people. For South Africans, global travel is becoming much more exciting because of the wide choices of visa-free destinations. Whether it is the vibrant streets of Brazil or the tranquil beaches of Mozambique, South Africans can now explore multiple countries without complicated visa procedures. However, some other countries do need visas like eVisa or visa on arrival for South Africans.

In case you didn’t know, we will share all the information about the aforementioned topic in the article. So, grab your passport, pack your luggage, and be ready to explore all the visa-free paradises that wait for you.

Which Countries Are Visa-Free for South African Passport?

South African passport holders have the privilege of visa-free access to several countries around the world for up to 1 year depending on the specific country, which greatly facilitates international travel for leisure, business, or transit purposes. No need for complicated pre-arranged application procedures for a visa. You can now enter the most notable destinations, including Brazil, Russia, and Thailand, etc., and experience various cultures. 

However, due to the fluctuating changes to international visa policies, the number of visa-free countries for South African holders is also subject to change from time to time. By far, South Africans can now visit 74 countries visa-free. But, before you plan any international trip, checking the newest requirements for a visa is critical because all these may change.

🔎Read Also: How to Apply for a South African Passport?

What Countries Issue eVisa to South African Citizens?

Except for these visa-free countries for South Africans, some countries issue visas to South African citizens. This kind of eVisa for South Africans is an electronic permit for traveling globally to other countries. It can be applied online, which simplifies the procedures and makes it more convenient to get. Just submit the online application along with the required documents and pay the bill. Once you are approved, the visa is sent electronically to you rather than a physical visa stamp or sticker on the passport. Just print it out and bring it with you when you are traveling.  

By now, eVisas are available in 28 countries for South Africans. These are Turkey, India, Sri Lanka, Azerbaijan, and Keny, etc. With the growing availability of eVisas, South African citizens can embark on unforgettable journeys around the globe without the stress of traditional visa applications. 

What Countries Issue Visa on Arrival to South African Passport Holders?

You have learned about visa-free countries and countries that issue eVisas. Except for these countries, there is visa on arrival (VOA) access to some other countries to make the procedures for traveling abroad simpler and more convenient. Visa on arrival allows you to obtain a visa right away when you arrive at the airport or the border crossing point of another country. But to obtain it, you need to prepare the required documents, complete the requisite paperwork, and pay the visa fee. After you get it, you can stay in the country within the specified days.

By now, VOA for South Africans is available in 33 countries (some of them also offer eVisas), including Armenia, Bahrain, Bolivia, Burundi, etc. However, travelers need to stay updated on visa policies as they can change. Always make sure you check the newest requirements before your journey. 

Countries With Visa Requirements for South African Citizens

You may also want to travel to a country that requires you to have a regular visa. A regular visa’s requirements and application processes differ from country to country, depending on the applicant’s purpose of visiting and nationality. Typically, a visa application involves a form and supporting documents such as a passport, travel itinerary, and proof of finances. The application may also require an interview with consular officers at the embassy or consulate of the destination country. The processing time for a visa can range from a few days to several weeks, or even months, and the cost of a visa can also vary greatly.

By now, 95 countries require a visa to enter, and some countries may impose additional conditions on South African passport holders, such as proof of vaccination requirements. It’s important to stay informed about the latest travel updates and entry requirements to ensure a smooth and hassle-free travel experience. 

How Powerful is the South African Passport?

Passport strength involves visa-free or visa-on-arrival access to countries. South African passports grant moderate global mobility, affording privileges in many regions and countries like parts of Africa and South America. However, South Africans must obtain visas to travel to many countries in North America, Europe and Asia. Therefore, it cannot be compared to the broad access offered by passports from more powerful countries. Currently, the South African passport is ranked 53rd globally in the newly released Henry Passport Index 2024, dropping one place down from the previous year.

FAQ

How many countries can a South African visit without a visa?

Currently, South African citizens can travel to 108 countries without a visa.

Is Canada visa-free to South Africa?

No, Canada is not visa-free for South African passport holders. South African citizens need to obtain a visa before traveling to Canada. 

Is Australia visa free for South Africa?

No, Australia is not visa-free for South African passport holders. South African citizens are required to obtain a visa before traveling to Australia for tourism, business, study, or any other purpose. 

Do Canadian permanent residents need a visa for South Africa?

A short visit to South Africa for no more than 90 days is visa-free for Canadian permanent residents for tourism or business purposes. But if you break the law to overstay South Africa without authority or perform any other unauthorized activities. In that case, you will face finement or/and refusal to re-enter South Africa for up to 5 years. 

🔎Read Also: Which Countries Can Canadian Permanent Resident Travel without Visa

Which countries are easy for South Africans to immigrate to?

Mauritius, Portugal, New Zealand, Australia, and Canada are among the countries that offer relatively straightforward immigration processes for South Africans.

What countries are visa free for Swaziland?

Currently, Swazi passport holders enjoy visa-free access to 45 countries in the world, including Botswana, Lesotho, Mauritius, Mozambique, Namibia, and South Africa within the Southern African Development Community (SADC). Additionally, Swazi citizens can travel to certain countries in Africa, Asia, and the Caribbean without needing a visa, or by obtaining a visa upon arrival. However, visa requirements and agreements can change, so travelers should check with the relevant authorities or embassies before planning their trips. 

Conclusion

Several visa-free destinations beckon for South African travelers. However, some countries require visas, either by applying for a eVisa or by arriving on a visa. In the case of regular visas, it is important to plan your days in advance to avoid any unforeseen circumstances. Travelers need to stay up-to-date on the latest visa requirements and regulations, which can change over time.