Student Visas South Africa
South Africa is one of the world’s most exiting places to be a student. It is a country at the cutting edge of change, where high-tech solutions, based on in-depth research, are being developed in response to some of the world’s most pressing problems and challenges.
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Take the free South Africa visa assessment with Global Visas to find out the best visa for your needs in an easy, step-by-step process. You’ll be able to speak to a Global Visas consultant to get simple South African immigration advice from an expert.
In South Africa, study visa applications are grouped alongside South African work permits under the category of temporary residence Visa South Africa. Student visas apply to primary, secondary, and tertiary education and allow foreign nationals to immigrate to South Africa for the express purpose of undertaking a course of study.
The main requirement for a study permit is that a definite offer has to be obtained and an applicant application must be able to demonstrate confirmation of an offer of a place on a course of study at a recognised South African educational institution. The offer of a place does not in itself guarantee that a visa application will be accepted; it is nonetheless a prerequisite and must be obtained before the application can be submitted. Applicants must bear in mind that the application process for a South African study visa can take up to 8 weeks and that since South African educational institutions cannot register foreign students until their visas are granted, it is wise to apply as soon as your letter of confirmation is received.
Study visa Benefits
A South African study permit is not intended as a route to permanent settlement and will not lead to permanent residency or the right to apply for South African citizenship. The study visa is usually granted for the duration of the applicant’s course, this is a better option if studying for a longer course and it is advisable to note that if an applicant wishes to study in South Africa and they have a visitor’s visa they may only be allowed to do so for 90 days. Students are allowed to work for 20 hours on a part time basis and if need be. During vacation periods, if a letter of permission is obtained from the institution, no working restrictions will be imposed at all and an applicant may supplement their income whilst in South Africa.
Applicants may only use their permit to study at the named institution and to follow the specified course. Any change in either the place of study or the course undertaken will require a separate application to be submitted.
Eligibility Requirements
As abovementioned, the main requirement for applying for a South African student visa is that the applicant has to be offered a place of study at a South African bona fide institution. An important rule to note is that the Department of Home Affairs welcomes foreign students who wish to live and study in South Africa, however, foreign students must not deprive someone already resident in South Africa from studying by doing so.
Applicants must be able to show that they can financially support themselves throughout their time in South Africa including paying their tuition fees and must have medical insurance arranged. Certain nationals might be required to register with the local police or obtain a police clearance form and for applicants under the age of must submit a letter of consent from the parents when submitting their application form. A range of other documentary evidence will be required to support applications.
Spouse Immigration and Dependent Immigration
South African study visas are not meant to be used as a route to permanent residency however the applicants might have to be in South Africa for a number of years while completing their course and hence temporary arrangements are also made for dependents and/or spouses for the same duration as the main applicant.
Global Visas is an immigration and visa agency who specialises in all types of visas for South Africa and other overseas destination. Visit our online assessment area today to find out whether you qualify and to get your application moving. Find out further information on our Tourist Visas South Africa page.
