QuickTravelTools Do I need a visa for the United States with a South African passport?
You need a visa for the United States. Apply before you travel.
Rule verified by QuickTravelTools on October 10, 2026.
Visa rules for all 199 passports: the United States visa hub.
What you need
- Passport: should be valid at least 6 months after your trip ends.
- Fee: 185 USD, B-1/B-2 visitor visa (business or tourism); non-refundable
Source: U.S. Department of State (ais.usvisa-info.com appointment service). - Official information: Visitor visa (B-1/B-2): official information
- Official information: Reciprocity fees by country (official table)
Official sources
- U.S. law requires U.S. citizens to enter and depart the United States on a U.S. passport. U.S. citizens are not eligible for a U.S. visa. (U.S. Department of State, verified October 5, 2026)
- All travelers entering the United States must present a passport or other acceptable document denoting identity and citizenship. U.S. citizens may present a valid U.S. passport, passport card, or trusted traveler card. (U.S. Customs and Border Protection, verified October 5, 2026)
- The State Department's Visa Waiver Program page lists all 42 VWP-designated countries whose nationals may enter visa-free for up to 90 days; all other foreign nationals require a visa, i.e. the full inbound matrix. (U.S. Department of State (travel.state.gov), verified October 6, 2026)
the United States at a glance
| Region | North America |
|---|---|
| Everyday prices | 100 on our price index (US = 100) |
| Power | Type A/B/NEMA 14-30/NEMA 14-50 sockets, 120/240 V, 120/208 V, 277/480 V, 60 Hz |
On cost, the United States is one of the pricier places to visit: everyday prices sit at about 100 on a global index where the United States is 100. See how the United States compares to 179 countries.
Pack a plug adapter: South African devices use Type C/M/N, but the United States uses Type A/B/NEMA 14-30/NEMA 14-50. Voltage differs too (120/240 V, 120/208 V, 277/480 V there versus 230/400 V at home), so check for a dual-voltage label before plugging in. Full plug and voltage guide for the United States.
Common questions
Do South African citizens need a visa for the United States?
Yes. You need a visa for the United States. Apply before you travel.
How long can a South African passport holder stay in the United States?
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 the United States's embassy or official immigration portal before you travel.
Nearby destinations for South African passport holders
Sorted by distance from the United States, useful if your trip covers more than one country.