Are you dreaming of the breathtaking views from Table Mountain, the vibrant streets of Johannesburg, or an unforgettable safari in Kruger National Park? For many Kenyans, South Africa is a top-bucket list destination. However, before you pack your bags and head to the airport, there is one important step: getting your travel documents in order.

The introduction of the eVisa system has made visiting South Africa much easier. In this guide, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know about the South Africa Visa for Kenyan citizens, costs and documents to the processing times.

What exactly is the South Africa eVisa?

The South Africa eVisa is an electronic travel authorization that allows citizens from eligible countries, including Kenya, to apply for their visitor’s visa online. Gone are the days of standing in long queues at the embassy or VFS centers. Now, you can complete the entire process from the comfort of your home in Nairobi, Mombasa, or anywhere else in Kenya.

Key Visa Details at a Glance

Feature	Details
Visa Type	eVisa (Visitor’s Visa / Business)
Number of Entries	Single Entry
Maximum Stay	Up to 90 Days
Validity	90 Days from date of issue
Processing Time	30 – 35 Working Days

Do Kenyans really need a visa for South Africa?

Yes. While there have been many discussions about visa-free travel between Kenya and South Africa, currently, most Kenyan ordinary passport holders are required to have a valid visa to enter the country for tourism or business. The eVisa is the most convenient way to obtain this.

Can I apply for a South Africa Business eVisa?

Absolutely! If you are traveling for meetings, conferences, or to explore investment opportunities, you can apply for a Business eVisa. While the process is similar to the tourist eVisa, you will need to provide additional documents such as an invitation letter from the South African company you are visiting and proof of your business activities in Kenya.

What are the main documents required for the application?

To ensure your South Africa eVisa Application is successful, you will need to upload clear scans of the following:

• Valid Passport: Your passport must be valid for at least 6 months beyond your intended stay and have at least two blank pages.
• Flight Itinerary: A confirmed round-trip booking or a flight itinerary showing your arrival and departure dates.
• Purpose of Visit: A brief letter explaining what you will be doing in South Africa (e.g., tourism, visiting family, or business meetings).
• Financial Proof: Recent bank statements (usually for the last 3 months) to prove you can support yourself during the trip.
• Yellow Fever Certificate: Since Kenya is in the yellow fever belt, this is mandatory.
• Proof of Accommodation: A hotel booking or an invitation letter from a host in South Africa.

Why is the Yellow Fever Vaccination Certificate so important?

South Africa is very strict about health regulations. Because Kenya is classified as a country with a risk of Yellow Fever transmission, you must show proof of vaccination. Without this certificate, you could be denied boarding or entry into South Africa. Make sure you get the shot at least 10 days before you travel.

What is the standard eVisa approval time?

Patience is key! The current processing time for the South Africa eVisa for Kenyan citizens is approximately 30 to 35 working days. While some applications might be faster, it is highly recommended that you apply at least two months before your planned travel date to avoid any last-minute stress.

What are the most common eVisa mistakes to avoid?

Many applications are delayed or rejected due to simple errors. To avoid this:

• Check for Typos: Ensure your passport number and name match your passport exactly.
• Upload Clear Documents: Blurry or cut-off scans of your bank statements or passport will lead to rejection.
• Don’t Forget the Signature: If a form requires a signature, make sure it is signed before scanning.
• Insufficient Funds: Ensure your bank statements show enough money to cover your stay comfortably.

Can I get a refund if my visa is denied?

It is crucial to note that visa payments are generally non-refundable. This applies even if your application is denied or if you decide not to travel. Because the fee covers the processing of your documents by the authorities, the money cannot be returned. Always double-check your information for errors before hitting “submit.”

What is the maximum stay allowed on an eVisa?

The South Africa eVisa allows for a maximum stay of 90 days. This is perfect for a long holiday or an extended business trip. Remember, this is a single-entry visa, meaning if you leave South Africa to visit a neighboring country like Namibia or Botswana, you cannot re-enter on the same visa.

How will I receive my approved visa?

Once your application is approved by the Department of Home Affairs, your visa will be sent directly to your email address. It comes in a printable PDF format. You should print a physical copy and keep it with your passport throughout your journey.

Is South Africa safe for Kenyan tourists?

Generally, yes! South Africa is a top-tier global tourist destination. Like any major country, it has areas that are safer than others. Stick to popular tourist routes, avoid walking alone at night in city centers, and use reputable transport apps like Uber. Most Kenyans find the hospitality in South Africa to be warm and welcoming.

What currency is used in South Africa?

The official currency is the South African Rand (ZAR). You will find that credit and debit cards (Visa and Mastercard) are widely accepted in cities, malls, and hotels. However, it is always a good idea to carry some cash for tips, local markets, or smaller shops in rural areas. You can easily exchange your currency or withdraw Rands from ATMs at the airport upon arrival.

Why Choose Our Service (sa-evisa.com)?

When you choose to process your application through sa-evisa.com, you aren’t just paying a service fee; you are securing extra peace of mind. Here is what we offer:

• Accuracy Reviews: Every application is checked for errors by experts before it is sent to the government.
• Priority Handling: We move urgent applications to the front of our internal queue to ensure they are filed immediately.
• Safe Delivery: Approved visas are delivered directly to your email in a ready-to-print format.
• Recovery Service: If you lose your visa confirmation email, we can reissue it for you upon request.
• Real-Time Updates: You won’t be left wondering. We provide updates via email or chat to keep you informed every step of the way.

Can I work in South Africa with an eVisa?

No. The eVisa is strictly for tourism, visiting family, or short-term business meetings. If you intend to take up employment in South Africa, you must apply for a specific Work Visa through the South African High Commission.

What should I do if my visa takes longer than 35 days?

While 30-35 working days is the standard, sometimes delays happen due to high volumes or system maintenance. If you use a service like sa-evisa.com, our support team can help track the status and provide updates if the government requires additional documentation.

Final Tips for a Smooth Trip

• Book Flexibly: Since processing takes over a month, try to book flights and hotels that allow for date changes.
• Check Your Passport: Ensure it has plenty of blank pages for entry and exit stamps.
• Be Honest: Provide truthful information about your financial status and the purpose of your trip to avoid being blacklisted.

South Africa is waiting for you! By following this guide and preparing your documents early, you’ll be sipping rooibos tea under the African sun before you know it. Safe travels!