Quick Facts
Requirement
Visa Required
Visa Fee
ZAR 2,868
(~$155)
Processing Time
29–56 working days
Appointment Wait
~ weeks
Stay Duration
Up to days
E-Visa
Available online
Australia is a dream destination for South Africans — and home to one of the world's largest South African diaspora communities. The Visitor Visa (subclass 600) costs AUD 190 (~ZAR 2,424) and allows up to 12 months. Unlike EU passport holders who get a free eVisitor visa, South Africans must apply and pay — but the process is fully online.
Key Warnings
- South Africans are NOT eligible for the free eVisitor (subclass 651) — this is restricted to EU/EEA/UK nationals. You must apply for the paid Visitor Visa (subclass 600) via ImmiAccount.
- The AUD 190 fee is completely non-refundable, even if your visa is refused. Prepare your documentation thoroughly before applying.
- Apply at least 6–8 weeks before travel. The 29-day typical processing time can extend to 8 weeks during peak season (November–February, Australian summer).
Insider Tips
- South Africa has one of the world's largest expat communities in Australia — particularly in Perth, Sydney, and Melbourne. Visiting family or friends strengthens your visa application significantly.
- Flights from Johannesburg to Australia are long (~12–14 hours) but South African Airways, Qantas, and Singapore Airlines all connect the two countries. Perth is the closest Australian city to South Africa.
- There is no Working Holiday Visa (subclass 417) available to South African passport holders. If you are looking to work in Australia, explore the Skilled Migration pathways instead.
Step-by-Step Guide
-
Create an ImmiAccount
Go to immi.homeaffairs.gov.au. Create an ImmiAccount (free). Select 'Visitor Visa (subclass 600)' — do NOT select eVisitor 651, which is not available to South Africans.
-
Complete the online application
Fill in all sections of the online form — personal details, travel history, purpose of visit, character and health declarations. This takes 30–60 minutes.
-
Upload supporting documents
Upload bank statements (3–6 months), employment letter, travel itinerary, accommodation bookings, and ties-to-SA evidence. PDF format preferred.
-
Pay AUD 190 visa fee
Pay the non-refundable AUD 190 (~ZAR 2,424) application fee online by credit card. Approval is not guaranteed.
-
Attend biometrics (if requested)
You may receive a request to provide biometrics at VFS Global in Johannesburg or Cape Town. Book and attend the appointment promptly — the 28-day processing clock starts only after biometrics are received.
-
Wait for decision (typically 29 days)
75% of applications are processed within 29 days. Some take up to 8 weeks during peak season (November–February). You will receive an email with a visa grant or refusal.
Required Documents
-
Valid South African passport
Must be valid for the full duration of your intended stay in Australia.
-
Bank statements (last 3–6 months)
Must show sufficient funds to cover all costs in Australia. Consistent income and savings are important. The Australian Department of Home Affairs looks for stability.
-
Employment letter
Confirms your position, salary, approved leave dates, and intent to return to your job in South Africa.
-
Travel itinerary
Flight bookings and planned activities. Full hotel bookings strengthen the application.
-
Evidence of ties to South Africa
Property documents, family evidence, employment contracts — anything demonstrating you will return.
Recommended (Optional)
-
Travel insurance
Not mandatory but strongly recommended. Australia has world-class but very expensive healthcare.
-
Previous visa history
Prior Australian, UK, US or Schengen visa stamps improve approval odds.
Frequently Asked Questions
What visa do South Africans need for Australia?
South Africans need the Australian Visitor Visa (subclass 600). The free eVisitor (subclass 651) is NOT available to South African passport holders — it's only for EU, EEA, and UK nationals. Apply online via ImmiAccount at immi.homeaffairs.gov.au. The fee is AUD 190 (~ZAR 2,424).
Can South Africans use the free eVisitor 651 visa for Australia?
No. The eVisitor (subclass 651) is restricted to European, UK, and a small number of other nationalities. South African passport holders must apply for the paid Visitor Visa (subclass 600) at AUD 190 (~ZAR 2,424). This is a common source of confusion.
How long does the Australian visa take for South Africans?
75% of Australian subclass 600 applications are processed within 29 days. Some take 6–8 weeks during peak season (November–February). Apply at least 6–8 weeks before travel. Do not book non-refundable tickets until your visa is granted.
How long can South Africans stay in Australia?
A standard tourist grant is 3 months. The immigration officer may grant 6 or 12 months at their discretion based on your application. The visa is typically valid for multiple entries. Your actual length of stay is determined by the grant — check your visa grant notice carefully.