South Africa eVisa for Chinese Citizens
Note: South Africa is reviewing a change from eVisa to eTA. Eligibility is still undecided, so Chinese passport holders should stay informed via the South Africa eVisa portal
South Africa is well-known for its wonderfully beautiful nature, wildlife, and rich cultures, attracting millions of tourists, business travellers, and family visitors from China. Chinese passport holders must apply for South Africa eVisa before entering the country, which is convenient than applying through the embassy
This guide explains who can apply, what documents to take along, the mode of application, costs involved, the validity of the eVisa, etc
South Africa eVisa allowed Purposes
You can apply for an eVisa if you are visiting for any short-term purpose:
- Tourism
- Business meetings
- Family visits
- Medical consultation
- Religious visit
- To attend court proceedings
- Attending trade exhibitions/fairs
- Attending events
The eVisa is not limited to the above purposes. For information on all the allowed purposes, please refer to the South Africa eVisa Types webpage
South Africa eVisa Eligibility for Chinese Citizens
Chinese travellers must meet specific eligibility criteria before visiting South Africa.
- Chinese Passport: The applicant must have a passport with a validity of 6 months beyond the arrival date in China; the passport must have 1-2 blank pages
- Proof of Return or Onward Travel: The applicants are required to submit a confirmed return or onward flight ticket. The document must show your full name exactly as it appears on your passport, along with your flight numbers, arrival date, and confirmed return date.
- Proof of Funds: Signed or stamped bank statements supporting your financial stay in South Africa
- Purpose and Duration of Visit: A signed letter explaining your purpose of visit, travel dates, itinerary, and accommodation details
- Yellow fever vaccination certificate (only if you pass through a country where yellow fever is common)
Special notes
- All documents must be in English (or translated into English)
- Upload clear scanned copies when applying online
- Children/minors must have parental consent forms and a birth certificate
Note: Request for more documents will be communicated by the South Africa eVisa support team
South Africa eVisa Processing Fees
The cost of a South African eVisa depends on the eVisa purpose, the applicant’s nationality, the number of entries, and the processing time chosen.
For Chinese citizens, most short-stay eVisas have a standard affordable fee, but extra charges may apply for expedited service . To check the exact fee for your case, you can use the South Africa eVisa Fee webpage which shows the applicable amount before payment
South Africa eVisa Processing Times
Standard processing takes 30 -35 Working Days. If you want your eVisa earlier, you can choose from rush and super-rush processing, by paying an extra cost
South Africa eVisa Validity and Stay Duration for Chinese Citizens
The South Africa eVisa is a single-entry visavalid for 90 days from the date of issue. You are permitted to stay for up to 90 days (or less, depending on the approval granted)
How to Get Your South Africa eVisa?
Please follow the steps below to apply for the South Africa eVisa:
Fill in the Online Form
Visit the South Africa eVisa Application portal to complete the application by submitting your passport, personal and travel details. Next, upload the required documents and submit the form.
Pay the eVisa Fee
To move your application to the processing stage, you must complete the payment using a valid credit/debit card that is enabled for international transactions.
Receive the South Africa eVisa
Once processed, you will receive your eVisa approval by email. Print a copy and carry it with you when travelling to South Africa.
Why Choose Our eVisa Support Service?
Applying for an eVisa may look simple, but the requirements can often feel confusing. That’s where our experts step in to make the process stress-free:
Guided Assistance
Our expert team provide step-by-step support to help you apply smoothly and conveniently.
Fast-Track Processing
Urgent trip? We offer options for rush and super-rush processing.
24/7 Customer Care
Our customer support team is available anytime via call, live chat, email, etc to answer your questions.
Careful Document Check
We review your documents to reduce errors and improve your chances of approval.
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes, but you must apply inside South Africa with a valid reason
It’s not mandatory, but it is strongly recommended to have travel insurance for medical emergencies, accidents, or trip cancellations
Yes. The South Africa eVisa is electronically linked to your passport, although having a print copy to carry while travelling may still be useful
Status can be tracked by visiting the South Africa eVisa Status Check webpage
Content Disclaimer: Although the last update was made in August 2025, we strongly advise verifying any travel-related information with the relevant government offices, embassies, and airlines.
