General information only, not legal or immigration advice. Confirm every requirement with the official government source, the embassy and your airline before you book. Use of this site means you accept our terms of use.
Nigerian passport holders need a visa for South Africa, arranged before departure.
How to enter
Apply before you travel through South Africa’s visa application centre. Since 2026 you no longer hand in your passport when you first apply; you present it later for the visa to be affixed.
What to carry
Nigerian passport valid for at least 6 months beyond your trip, plus any old passports
Completed visa application form
Recent passport photographs
Bank statements, usually for the last 6 months
Employment letter, or CAC business registration documents if self-employed
Return flight reservation
Hotel booking or invitation letter
Travel insurance
Yellow fever vaccination card (yellow card)
NoteSouth Africa also runs an eVisa for Nigerians arriving at designated airports such as O.R. Tambo in Johannesburg.
HealthNigeria is a yellow fever country. Many destinations and airlines ask travellers from Nigeria for a yellow fever certificate, so keep your yellow card with your passport.
Checked against official and news sources, September 2026. The border officer makes the final decision.
Common questions about South Africa
Do Nigerians need a visa for South Africa?
Yes. Nigerian passport holders need a visa for South Africa, and it must be obtained before you travel.
Can I visit South Africa with a US, UK or Schengen visa?
We have no record of an exemption for Nigerians holding US, UK, Canadian or Schengen visas when visiting South Africa. Confirm with the embassy before you travel.
What documents do Nigerians need to visit South Africa?
Commonly checked documents: nigerian passport valid for at least 6 months beyond your trip, plus any old passports; completed visa application form; recent passport photographs; bank statements, usually for the last 6 months; employment letter, or CAC business registration documents if self-employed; return flight reservation.
How do Nigerians apply for a South Africa visa?
Apply before you travel through South Africa’s visa application centre. Since 2026 you no longer hand in your passport when you first apply; you present it later for the visa to be affixed.
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