For university or long courses as the first status.
Route overview
School admission + proof of funds
Typical timeline / duration: 2-5 months
Important notes
Obtain a formal acceptance or confirmation of enrolment from an eligible South African school, university, college, or other learning institution.
Submit the study-visa application with a valid machine-readable passport, application form, photographs, admission evidence, itinerary or accommodation, and the prescribed fee.
Show sufficient financial support and medical cover, and provide medical and police-clearance certificates and any guardian or host evidence required for the applicant's age and programme.
Apply before travel when required and keep the study visa tied to the approved institution and course; complete any renewal or institution-change process before changing the programme.
South African government guidance states that study visas are issued for the duration of the study period and that holders may not work more than 20 hours per week part-time.
A study visa is not a general remote-work route. Any employment must remain within the student-work limit and other current conditions.