Do South Africans Need a Visa for Nigeria? A Complete Guide

If you are a South African planning a trip to Nigeria, whether for business, tourism, or visiting family, one of the most important questions you need to answer is: Do South Africans need a visa for Nigeria? The short answer is yes. South African passport holders must obtain a visa to enter Nigeria, and currently, this visa must be issued in your physical passport — there is no functioning e-Visa system for South African citizens at this time.

In this comprehensive guide, we cover everything you need to know about visa requirements for South Africans travelling to Nigeria, including how to apply, required documents, visa types, and how to make the Nigerian Visa process easier by using GetVisa.

Do South Africans Require a Visa for Nigeria?

Yes, citizens of South Africa require a visa to enter Nigeria if they are travelling on an ordinary passport. There are no visa exemptions for South African nationals holding standard passports. However, if you hold a diplomatic or official passport, you may enter Nigeria without a visa, in line with bilateral agreements between the two countries.

For ordinary passport holders, the visa must be obtained in advance and is physically stamped into your passport. There is no valid e-Visa option for South Africans at this time.

To simplify the process, many travellers use GetVisa, a South African service that assists with Nigerian visa applications.

Types of Nigerian Visas Available to South Africans

Here are the main visa types you can apply for:

  1. Tourist Visa – for sightseeing, leisure or visiting friends/family
  2. Business Visa – for attending meetings, conferences, or exploring investment opportunities
  3. Temporary Work Permit (TWP) – for short-term employment or contract work
  4. Transit Visa – for travellers connecting through Nigeria

Each visa type has different requirements, so make sure to apply for the correct category. GetVisa can help you identify the right visa and handle the paperwork.

Required Documents for Nigerian Visa Application

To apply for a Nigerian visa from South Africa, you will generally need:

  • A valid South African passport (minimum 6 months validity with at least two blank pages)
  • Two recent passport-sized colour photographs
  • Completed visa application form
  • Proof of accommodation in Nigeria (hotel booking or invitation letter from host)
  • Proof of return or onward travel (e.g., flight booking)
  • Evidence of sufficient funds (e.g., bank statements)
  • Yellow Fever Vaccination Certificate (mandatory for entry into Nigeria)

For business or work visas, you may also need:

  • A business invitation letter
  • CAC registration documents of the inviting company in Nigeria
  • Proof of conference registration or meeting invitation

To ensure all documents are correct and complete, you can use GetVisa, which provides checklists and expert guidance.

How to Apply for a Nigerian Visa from South Africa

Because e-Visas are not currently accepted for South African travellers, you must apply in person. Visa applications can be submitted at any of the following:

  • Nigerian High Commission in Pretoria
  • Nigerian Consulate General in Johannesburg
  • Nigerian Visa Application Centres located in Johannesburg, Cape Town, and Pretoria

Here’s how the application process works:

  1. Complete the visa application form online via the Nigeria Immigration Service portal and print it.
  2. Pay the visa fee online and keep the payment confirmation.
  3. Book an appointment at the relevant location.
  4. Attend your appointment with your documents and passport.
  5. Submit biometrics (photograph and fingerprints may be required).
  6. Wait for processing (usually a few working days) and collect your passport with the visa stamp.

If you’d rather avoid the hassle, GetVisa offers a door-to-door service — they handle the appointment, document preparation, and collection for you.

Visa Fees for South African Citizens

Visa fees vary depending on the type and length of the visa. On average, you can expect to pay:

  • Tourist/Business Visa (single entry): $100–$150 USD
  • Multiple entry or longer stay visas may cost more

Always confirm the latest fees with the Nigerian High Commission or via GetVisa, which includes the visa fee and processing support in one clear package.

Where to Apply in Person

You can submit your visa application at:

Nigerian High Commission
Pretoria, South Africa

Nigerian Consulate General
Johannesburg, South Africa

Nigerian Visa Application Centres
Johannesburg, Cape Town, and Pretoria

Appointments are mandatory, and it’s best to prepare all paperwork in advance to avoid delays. GetVisa can arrange your appointment and ensure all documentation is correct the first time.

Practical Travel Tips for Visiting Nigeria

  • Currency: Nigeria uses the Naira (NGN). Bring USD or ZAR to exchange upon arrival.
  • Health: A Yellow Fever certificate is mandatory. Malaria prevention is recommended.
  • Connectivity: Local SIM cards are available but require registration with your ID/passport.
  • Transport: Arrange airport transfers in advance, especially in Lagos or Abuja.
  • Language: English is widely spoken in Nigeria.

Final Thoughts: Travel Smart, Apply Early

South Africans planning to visit Nigeria must obtain a visa in advance, and that visa is physically stamped into your passport. The Nigerian e-Visa system does not apply to South African passport holders at this time.

To avoid delays, incorrect paperwork, or rejected applications, it’s strongly recommended to apply through GetVisa. Their team offers full support, helps you prepare all documents, and handles the back-and-forth with the consulate or visa centre.

With your visa sorted, you’re ready to enjoy the rich culture, vibrant cities, and warm hospitality of Nigeria.