The South Africa Volunteer Visa allows foreign nationals to engage in voluntary or charitable work in South Africa, typically for non-governmental organizations (NGOs) or other charitable entities.
This type of visa is non-remunerative, meaning volunteers cannot receive payment for their work. If any form of remuneration is received, a work visa would be required.
What Is the South Africa Volunteer Visa?
The South Africa volunteer visa is designed for foreign nationals who want to participate in non-paid volunteer work or charity work in South Africa. It enables volunteers to assist in various sectors such as wildlife conservation, community development, healthcare, education, or environmental projects.
Volunteers attached to NGOs or charitable organizations use this visa to enter and stay in South Africa for an extended period to carry out their voluntary activities.
Requirements for a South Africa Volunteer Visa
To apply for a South Africa Volunteer Visa, you will need to submit several documents to ensure that your application is considered valid. These documents include:
1. Completed Application Form
The form, which you can download here, must be completed in black ink only and signed appropriately.
2. Two Passport-Sized Photographs
The photos must adhere to the Department of Home Affairs’ requirements.
3. Valid Passport
Your passport must be valid for at least 30 days beyond your intended departure from South Africa, with at least two blank pages available. Copies of previous visas or entry stamps to South Africa may also be required.
4. Yellow Fever Vaccination Certificate
If you are traveling through a region affected by yellow fever, you must provide proof of vaccination.
5. Proof of Sufficient Means
You need to provide proof of financial stability during your stay. You may submit:
- Bank statements from the last three months showing a balance of R3,000 (approximately $173) per month.
- Credit card statements, traveler’s cheques, or cash showing a balance covering the duration of your stay.
6. Flight Reservations
You will need to provide flight details corresponding to the dates provided in the host organization’s confirmation letter.
7. Police Clearance Certificate
You must provide police clearance certificates from all countries you’ve lived in for more than 12 months since the age of 18. These certificates must not be older than six months.
8. Medical Report (BI-811)
A registered medical practitioner must complete this report, detailing your general health. It must be less than six months old.
9. Radiological Reports
These reports are required to confirm that the applicant does not have active pulmonary tuberculosis. Pregnant women and children under 12 are exempt but still require a doctor’s note.
10. Written Undertaking to Leave South Africa
A letter stating that you will leave South Africa upon completing your volunteer work and will not engage in paid work.
11. Proof of Accommodation
You need to provide proof that you have secured a place to stay, either through:
- Confirmation from the institution providing accommodation.
- Hotel reservation.
- Letter from the host confirming the residential address and utility bill, along with the host’s ID or passport copy.
12. Letter of Confirmation of Voluntary Work
This letter must come from the organization where you’ll be volunteering and should include:
- A description of the organization.
- The registration number of the NGO.
- Details about your tasks, schedule, accommodation, and any secondary voluntary activities.
- A statement confirming that you will not receive payment for your work.
How Much Does a South Africa Volunteer Visa Cost?
The visa fee is R425 (approximately $24). Extra charges may apply if you’re applying through a visa application center. Keep in mind that the fee is non-refundable, even if the visa is denied, and may change without notice.
Processing Time for a South Africa Volunteer Visa
It generally takes about 6 to 8 weeks for the visa application to be processed. This time frame may be extended if additional documentation is required or if there are issues with the submitted documents.
How Much Bank Balance Is Required?
You need to provide a bank statement showing a minimum balance of R3,000 (approximately $176) per month. For example, if you plan to volunteer for six months, your bank balance must reflect at least R18,000.
Validity of the Volunteer Visa
The South Africa volunteer visa is valid for up to three years. It also functions as a multi-entry visa, allowing you to leave and re-enter the country during the visa’s validity.
Can I Extend My Volunteer Visa?
Yes, you can apply for an extension of your volunteer visa if you need to stay longer. However, you cannot change your visa status to another type of visa while in South Africa on a volunteer visa.
Can I Bring Family Members?
Yes, you can bring family members with you, but they are not allowed to work or study without their own appropriate visas. Family members must submit separate applications for dependent visas.
Does the Volunteer Visa Lead to Permanent Residency?
No, the volunteer visa does not lead to permanent residency in South Africa. To apply for permanent residency, you need to hold a qualifying visa, such as a work visa, for a minimum of five years.
For more detailed information or to begin your application process, you may want to contact the South African Department of Home Affairs or visit their official website.