QuickTravelTools Do I need a visa for South Africa with an Indian passport?
You need an ETA before you fly. It is a short online form, not a full visa.
Rule verified by QuickTravelTools on October 10, 2026.
Visa rules for all 199 passports: South Africa visa hub.
What you need
- Passport: should be valid at least 6 months after your trip ends.
- Fee: 500 ZAR, electronic processing fee per ETA application; non-fee-exempt travelers also pay the R425 visa fee (total R925)
Source: Department of Home Affairs, South Africa (Government Gazette No. 55209, 17 Aug 2026). - Processing time: If the application is approved, the traveller will receive their ETA within 24 hours
Source: Department of Home Affairs, South Africa. - Apply: Start the official SA ETA portal
- Official information: DHA - visa-exempt countries list
Non-exempt travelers apply via missions or the ETA platform as rolled out to their country
Official sources
- Full 'Passport holders who are exempt from visas for South Africa' nationality list (loaded live 2026-10-06; the recorded http URL is dead). (South African Department of Home Affairs, verified October 6, 2026)
- States a visa is not required for stays less than 90 days, with a passport valid 30 days past exit and 2 consecutive blank visa pages required. (U.S. Department of State (travel.state.gov), verified October 5, 2026)
South Africa at a glance
| Region | Africa |
|---|---|
| Everyday prices | 40 on our price index (US = 100) |
| Power | Type C/M/N sockets, 230/400 V, 50 Hz |
On cost, South Africa is one of the more affordable places to visit: everyday prices sit at about 40 on a global index where the United States is 100. See how South Africa compares to 179 countries.
On power, you are in luck: both Indian outlets and South Africa's use Type C, so many of your chargers should fit as-is. Full plug and voltage guide for South Africa.
Common questions
Do Indian citizens need a visa for South Africa?
Yes. You need an ETA before you fly. It is a short online form, not a full visa.
How long can an Indian passport holder stay in South Africa?
The permitted stay depends on the visa or authorisation issued. Check the official immigration site before booking.
Is the visa information on this page official?
No. This is a summary compiled from official government sources and verified by QuickTravelTools, and it can lag rule changes. Always confirm with South Africa's embassy or official immigration portal before you travel.
Nearby destinations for Indian passport holders
Sorted by distance from South Africa, useful if your trip covers more than one country.