USA entry requirements for travellers from South Africa
Visa requirement summary
South African passport holders need a US visa to visit the United States. South Africa is not a member of the Visa Waiver Program, so South Africans must apply for a B-1/B-2 visitor visa before travelling.
The application involves a DS-160 online form, a $185 non-refundable fee, and a mandatory in-person interview at the US Embassy in Pretoria or the US Consulate General in Cape Town or Johannesburg.
Applying for the B-1/B-2 visa
The B-1/B-2 is a combined business/tourism visitor visa. Applications are made online and in person through the following steps:
1. Complete the DS-160 form at ceac.state.gov. This is the standard nonimmigrant visa application form. Answer all questions fully — incomplete or inaccurate responses can result in refusal.
2. Pay the MRV fee. The current visa application fee is $185 per person. This is non-refundable regardless of the outcome. Payment is made through the local US Embassy’s payment system before you book your appointment.
3. Schedule an interview appointment at the nearest US Embassy or Consulate. Wait times for interview appointments vary significantly — from a few days to many months depending on the embassy location and time of year. Check current wait times at the US Embassy’s local website before you plan your trip.
4. Attend the in-person interview. Bring your passport, DS-160 confirmation, photo, appointment confirmation, and your supporting documents. A consular officer will ask about your travel plans, employment, finances, and ties to your home country.
5. Collect your visa or receive a decision. If approved, your passport will be returned with the visa sticker. If additional administrative processing is needed, this can add several weeks.
Key documents to prepare
- Passport valid for at least six months beyond your intended stay
- Bank statements for three to six months
- Proof of employment or business ownership in South Africa
- Property, family, or other ties to South Africa
- Travel itinerary
How long you can stay
B-1/B-2 visa validity varies — often five or ten years. Each admission is determined by CBP at the port of entry, typically up to six months for tourism.
Passport validity requirements
Passport must be valid for at least six months beyond your planned departure from the US.
Proof of funds and onward travel
Bank statements showing adequate funds, and a confirmed return flight to South Africa.
Health requirements
No vaccination requirements for South African citizens entering the US.
Other entry requirements
You cannot work in the US on a B-1/B-2 visa.
FAQs
Do South Africans need a visa for the USA?
Yes. A B-1/B-2 visitor visa is required — there is no visa-free or ESTA option for South African passport holders.
How much does it cost?
$185 non-refundable MRV fee.
Where do I apply?
US Embassy Pretoria, US Consulate General Cape Town, or US Consulate General Johannesburg.
How long will the visa be valid?
Typically five or ten years with multiple entries, at the officer’s discretion. Each stay is determined by CBP at the US port of entry.
What ties to South Africa should I show?
Employment (especially a letter from your employer confirming approved leave), property ownership, and family (spouse, children) in South Africa are the strongest evidence.