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South Africa · Business and investment

Business Visa

Who it's for: For foreigners investing in or starting a business in South Africa.

Information, not immigration advice. This page summarises what the government publishes. Confirm every figure on the official page before you pay or apply.

Last checked 3 Nov 2026

Requirements at a glance

  • Job offer needed: No
  • Main fee: ZAR 1,520
  • Decision time: 8 weeks

Figures and costs

Approximate, at rates of 27 Oct 2026. Banks use different rates.
Figures for the Business Visa
ItemAmountIn your currencySource
Main feeZAR 1,520—dha.gov.zaOfficial · 3 Nov 2026

Figures marked check could not be confirmed on a live official page, or come from a secondary source.

What the official pages say

3 points recorded from official pages. Open a point to see the official wording.

  • Job offer neededNoOfficial wording
    “Foreigners who are contemplating investing in the South African economy by establishing a business or by investing in an existing business in the country must apply for a business visa.”
  • Main feeZAR 1,520Official wording
    “Business visa (including applications for renewal) 15 R1 520, 00”
  • Decision time8 weeksOfficial wording
    “Business Visa - Section 15 8 weeks”

We have not yet recorded: Study place needed; Minimum education; Work experience; Language; Age limit; Money to show; Salary threshold; Family can join; Can lead to permanent residence; Occupation list. That does not mean there is no rule — confirm on the official page. Official page.

All visa types in South Africa

Every visa type we have listed, grouped by purpose, with links to the official pages.

South Africa visa types

Before you pay anyone

  • Nobody can guarantee a visa. Only the government of the country you apply to decides.
  • UK employers must not charge you for a Certificate of Sponsorship.
  • German missions say you don't need an agent to get a visa appointment.
  • Check any adviser or recruitment agent on an official register before you pay.
How to check an agent in your country