We rank the South Africa passport as number 39 in the world in line with our Passport Index ratings. As a South Africa citizen, you’ll be able to travel visa-free to 125 countries. To gain access to all other countries, you and your family as South Africa passport holders will need to apply for an Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA) or visa online in advance. Certain countries will allow you to apply for a visa on arrival.
As a South Africa passport holder, you are permitted to travel visa-free to 125 countries and territories. This data is correct as of March 2024.
In order to travel visa-free, you will need a valid passport, often with at least six months until expiry. Additionally, you may need travel insurance, as required by your destination country.
Within these countries, there is often a separate section in airports where you can submit your Visa on Arrival. You will receive your visa on arrival (VOA) after entering the country that issued the visa.
Acquiring an eVisa follows the same process as applying for a traditional visa. The main difference with an eVisa is that you don’t need to visit a visa application centre. You can submit your application online, including making any payments relating to the visa.
Once the relevant authorities approve your application, you will receive a confirmation email regarding your visa status, along with a document that you must print and bring with you when crossing the border.
You will need a valid visa to enter the 125 countries with a South Africa passport.
South Africa, located at the southernmost tip of the African continent, is renowned for its varied topography, great natural beauty, and cultural diversity. The country has a population of approximately 59 million people, with a rich blend of cultures including Zulu, Xhosa, and Afrikaans. English is widely spoken, acting as the bridge language that connects the diverse populace.
The climate in South Africa is typically temperate, however, it varies from Mediterranean in the southwestern corner of the country to subtropical in the northeast. The western part of the country is particularly dry, with much of it being semi-desert.
South Africa’s economy is the second-largest in Africa, and the 34th-largest in the world. It is a middle-income emerging market with abundant natural resources. The country’s economy is reasonably diversified, with key sectors including mining, agriculture, fisheries, food processing, clothing and textiles, telecommunication, energy, financial and business services, real estate, tourism, transportation, and wholesale and retail trade.
South Africa is a popular tourist destination, and a substantial amount of revenue comes from tourism. Apart from the diverse cultural life and historical sites, wildlife and national parks are major attractions. The country is also known for its wine industry. South African passport holders enjoy the freedom of visa-free travel to several countries, making it a powerful passport on the African continent.