›South African passport access by entry type
The 127 countries accessible to South African passport holders fall into three categories. The difference matters practically: visa-free means you walk in with your passport, visa on arrival means you apply and pay at the border, and eVisa means you apply online before you travel.
Visa-free entry (63 countries)
These destinations grant South African passport holders entry without any advance application or fee. You present your passport at the border and receive your entry stamp. Stay limits vary — typically 30 to 90 days — and you should always carry proof of onward travel and sufficient funds even when entry is visa-free.
Visa on arrival (10 countries)
Visa on arrival means you obtain your visa at the border crossing, airport, or port of entry rather than applying in advance. You will pay a fee (typically USD 20–100) and may need to provide photos, accommodation details, and proof of funds. While generally straightforward, entry is not guaranteed and processing times vary by country and time of day.
eVisa access (54 countries)
eVisa countries require you to apply online before travel — usually 3 to 14 business days in advance. Processing is simpler than a traditional visa (no embassy visit required) but you must apply ahead of time. Common eVisa destinations include Kenya, Sri Lanka, India, Cambodia, and Rwanda. Always confirm whether you need to print the approval or if a digital copy is accepted at the specific border crossing.
›Unlock more countries with compound access
Base passport access is only part of the picture. If you hold a valid Schengen visa, US visa, UK visa, or UAE residence permit, you can access additional countries without applying for a separate visa. This is called compound access — combining your South Africa passport with a visa you already have to unlock more destinations.
With a Schengen visa: up to 169 total countries
A valid Schengen visa or residence permit unlocks dozens of countries beyond Europe for South African passport holders. Mexico (180 days), Georgia (365 days), Albania, Kosovo, North Macedonia, Colombia, and several Caribbean and Pacific islands become accessible without a separate visa application.
The Schengen visa must be valid (not expired) and you typically need a multiple-entry visa to use it for third-country access. A single-entry Schengen visa may not qualify for compound access after it has been used.
