Student Immigration Information

Study Visa Before Arrival

International students are required to have a valid study visa to study at Stellenbosch University (SU).

SU is not permitted to register a student without a valid temporary residence visa.

As part of your visa application, you need to submit a

medical certificate

in addition to any other required documents (consult with the South African mission closest to you). You will also need to provide proof of medical cover recognised in South Africa from a provider registered with the South African Council for Medical Schemes, as per the Medical Schemes Act, 1998, as per the following link: South African Council for Medical Schemes.

Please contact the nearest South African High Commission to confirm the application process and supporting documents required for the visa application.

IMPORTANT: Please note it can take up to eight (8) weeks to obtain a visa, but the circumstances may vary from country to country. Start your visa application by acquainting yourself with the necessary supporting documentation, which may be time-consuming to obtain. Please ensure that you submit a complete application for your visa.

This information serves as a guide only. Requirements for obtaining a visa for South Africa are subject to change, and each application is treated as an individual case. Always enquire from your nearest SA Mission before travelling to South Africa.

Renewal of Study Visa in South Africa

Kindly visit www.vfsglobal.com/dha/southafrica for permit-related information.

You must apply online. Kindly log on to the website > Home page > Visa types > Temporary Residence/Permanent Residence, then scroll down for different permit categories and their requirements.

On the Home page click on COMPLETE ONLINE FORM, to apply. The system will automatically take you through the whole online application process.
Create an Email ID and a password to complete the online application.
After you have completed the online application, you will have the following options:
Online payment via Debit/Credit card through the secure online portal
EFT payment through the secure online portal
Pre-payment at Standard Bank by downloading and completing the online generated bank receipt and depositing the cash into the nearest Standard Bank.
After you have made payment you will be able to book an appointment date to submit your renewal application. You will also be able to do your Police clearance certificate application at the VFS office.

Important to note:
The VFS online application process is not compatible with Apple devices, therefore, we recommend using Google Chrome in private mode on a non-Apple device browser’s cache and ensure your history and cookies are cleared.
For technical glitches or errors on the VFS online application process please navigate to https://services.vfsglobal.com/zaf/en/ind/contact-us