🇿🇦→🇩🇪
Do South African citizens need a visa for Germany?
Visa required
Yes.
South African citizens must apply for a visa at an embassy, consulate or visa application centre before travelling to Germany. Start 4 to 8 weeks ahead and check whether you need an appointment.
🇪🇺 A Schengen visa from Germany lets you visit all 29 Schengen countries. Plan your 90/180 days →
Before you go
- Passport valid for at least 6 months beyond your stay, with blank pages
- Return or onward ticket
- Proof of accommodation and sufficient funds
- Visa application, photos, bank statements and travel insurance
- Check vaccination and health entry rules
Last checked 2026-09-24. Rules can change without notice; confirm with the Germany embassy or official immigration website.
Living in Germany
Check another destination
Other visa-free trips for South Africa passport holders
🇹🇭 Thailand🇸🇨 Seychelles🇦🇬 Antigua & Barbuda🇹🇳 Tunisia🇬🇩 Grenada🇩🇲 Dominica🇧🇸 Bahamas🇳🇮 Nicaragua🇬🇾 Guyana🇬🇦 Gabon🇷🇼 Rwanda🇳🇦 Namibia
Travelling the other way? Do German citizens need a visa for South Africa? →
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