South Africa Visa RequirementsFor Bahrain passport holders
Bahraini nationals require a visa for South Africa. Apply at the South African Embassy in Riyadh with a fee of around USD 60 for stays up to 90 days.
Bahrain passport holders require a visa to enter South Africa.
Apply at the South African Embassy in Riyadh or through a visa agency in Manama. Documents: valid Bahraini passport with 30 days validity beyond return, completed BI-84 visa application form, passport photos, yellow fever vaccination certificate (if transiting through yellow fever zones), travel itinerary, hotel bookings, bank statements. Processing: 5 to 15 working days.
Entry Requirements
Passport Validity
6 months beyond date of entry
Blank Pages
2 blank pages required
Multiple Entry
Single entry only
Work Permitted
No - requires work visa
Required Documents
For Your Visa Application
Valid Bahraini passport
Must have at least 30 days validity beyond the return date and minimum 2 blank pages.
South African BI-84 visa application form
Completed and signed South African tourist visa application form.
Two passport photos
Meeting South African Embassy specifications.
Round-trip flight itinerary
Confirmed outbound and return flights.
Hotel or accommodation bookings
Confirmed stays for the full trip.
Bank statements
Last 3 months showing financial means.
Required at Entry
Yellow fever vaccination certificate Recommended
Required if arriving from or transiting through yellow fever endemic countries.
Current Travel Situation
Bahrain to South Africa: What You Need to Know
South Africa requires a visa for Bahraini passport holders. The tourist visa (B1/B2 waiver) must be applied for in advance. The South African Embassy in Riyadh handles applications for Bahraini nationals. South Africa is a major safari and wildlife destination popular with Gulf travelers.
How to Get There
Kenya and Tanzania are neighboring East African safari destinations, each requiring their own visa.
Money & Banking
South Africa uses the South African Rand (ZAR). The BHD is very strong against ZAR, making South Africa highly affordable. Credit cards are widely accepted in Cape Town and Johannesburg. Carry some cash for game reserves and markets.
Practical Tips
South Africa offers world-class safari experiences (Kruger National Park, Sabi Sands), Cape Town (Table Mountain, V&A Waterfront, wine routes), the Garden Route, and the Drakensberg mountains. Apply 4 to 6 weeks before travel. Yellow fever vaccination may be required depending on your transit countries.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do Bahraini passport holders need a visa for South Africa?
Yes. Bahraini nationals must apply for a tourist visa before traveling to South Africa. Apply at the South African Embassy in Riyadh.
How much does a South African tourist visa cost from Bahrain?
Approximately USD 60. Confirm current fees with the South African Embassy in Riyadh.
How long can Bahraini citizens stay in South Africa?
The tourist visa allows stays of up to 90 days.
Do I need a yellow fever vaccination for South Africa?
A yellow fever certificate is required if you are arriving from or transiting through a yellow fever zone. Check with the South African Embassy and your doctor before traveling.
What are the best experiences in South Africa for Bahraini tourists?
Kruger National Park (Big Five safari), Cape Town (Table Mountain, Cape Peninsula, Boulders Beach penguins), the Winelands (Stellenbosch, Franschhoek), the Garden Route, and Drakensberg mountains.
Is South Africa affordable for Bahraini tourists?
Yes. The South African Rand (ZAR) is weak relative to the Bahraini Dinar (BHD), making South Africa very affordable for Bahraini travelers. Five-star safari lodges, Cape Town hotels, and restaurants are excellent value.
How long does South Africa visa processing take from Bahrain?
5 to 15 working days. Apply 4 to 6 weeks before travel, especially during peak safari season (June to October).