South Africa Visa RequirementsFor South Korea passport holders
South Korean nationals require a visa to visit South Africa. The visa must be obtained from the South African embassy or consulate before travel, costing approximately USD 60.
South Korea passport holders require a visa to enter South Africa.
Apply at the South African Embassy in Seoul or via the South African consulate. Submit: valid South Korean passport, completed BI-84 form, passport photos, proof of accommodation, return air ticket, bank statements for the last 3 months, and yellow fever vaccination certificate if arriving from endemic countries. Processing takes 5-7 business 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
Current Travel Situation
South Korea to South Africa: What You Need to Know
South Africa requires advance visas for South Korean nationals. Despite no formal trade barrier, South Africa has not entered a visa-free arrangement with South Korea. South Africa is a long-haul destination for Korean travelers but the visa requirement is a barrier.
Practical Tips
Apply at least 3-4 weeks before travel to account for delays. South Africa requires a blank page dedicated to the South African visa in your passport. Yellow fever certificate is mandatory if you have transited through a yellow fever zone. Safari bookings in Kruger or the Cape Winelands should be made months in advance.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do South Koreans need a visa for South Africa?
Yes. South Korean nationals require a visa to enter South Africa. Apply at the South African Embassy in Seoul in advance of travel. The process typically takes 5-7 business days.
What documents are needed for a South Africa visa application for South Koreans?
Required documents include: a valid South Korean passport with at least 2 blank pages specifically for the South Africa visa, completed BI-84 form, passport photos, proof of accommodation, return air ticket, bank statements for the last 3 months, and a yellow fever vaccination certificate if transiting through an endemic country.
Why does South Africa require blank pages in the passport?
South Africa immigration requires at least one blank page in your passport reserved exclusively for their visa stamp and entry/exit stamps. This is a formal requirement; insufficient pages result in denial of entry even with a valid visa. Check your passport well in advance.
What is the best time for South Koreans to visit South Africa?
May to September is the dry winter season and the best time for wildlife viewing in Kruger National Park as animals gather at water sources and vegetation is thin. Cape Town is best in the austral summer (November to March) for beaches and wine country. Whale watching is best from June to October in Hermanus.