SU International provides guidance and support to international staff and visitors preparing to join the SU community. Please note that the information shared here is intended for general guidance only and may change in line with updates from the South African Department of Home Affairs (DHA). All visa applications remain the responsibility of the applicant, who must consult directly with the DHA or the relevant South African representative abroad regarding the status of their application. SU accepts no responsibility for any reliance placed on this information.

HOW CAN SU INTERNATIONAL SUPPORT YOU?

• Let us know when you have submitted your application (please send a copy of the receipt).
• Please contact us after the prescribed processing time has lapsed, and we will follow up with Home Affairs on the status of your application. ([email protected]) will assist you with this.
• We can provide general support and advice during your application process. ​
• Lidia du Plessis ([email protected]) will be your first contact for pre-arrival queries and general support in settling in. ​

If you have any visa-related questions, you can contact SU International after you have spoken to your nearest South African High Commission or Embassy: [email protected]

Permits and Visas:

All international staff must have a valid visa to work at Stellenbosch University. You need to obtain the visa before you travel to South Africa. Once your move to South Africa is confirmed, contact your nearest South African High Commission for information on the application process and supporting documents required. This process can be a lengthy one, especially if one has to apply for visas for an entire family. We strongly recommend starting early with this process. Even if it is only to inquire about the necessary documents, you will need to do so. Sometimes the required documents  also have an application process that can take several weeks.

Medical Cover

Proof of medical cover is a mandatory requirement when applying for any visa to South Africa. You will need to provide evidence of medical cover from a provider registered with the South African Council for Medical Schemes, in accordance with the Medical Schemes Act (1998).

At SU, staff are generally enrolled in Discovery Health Medical Aid. Your assigned HR Practitioner will share detailed information about available plans and guide you through the enrolment process.

In addition, SU staff have access to Campus Health Services, located conveniently on the Stellenbosch Campus. Staff can consult the on-duty nurse free of charge and benefit from affordable, reliable healthcare services on campus.

Contact Persons: