Do South Africans need a visa for the USA?
Visa required
Yes. South Africans need a US B1/B2 visitor visa to visit the USA.
Before you go: Apply 3+ months ahead: interview waits have run to several months.
For South African passport holders travelling as tourists. Checked Sep 2026.
The rules at a glance
| Document | US B1/B2 visitor visa |
|---|---|
| Stay allowed | Up to 6 months per entry |
| When to apply | Apply 3+ months ahead: interview waits have run to several months |
| Fee | About R3 050 (estimate) |
| Passport | Valid at least 6 months beyond your intended stay. |
South Africa isn't on the Visa Waiver list, so you need a B1/B2 visa and an interview in Johannesburg or Cape Town; Durban stopped taking new routine bookings on 1 August 2026. The application fee is US$185. A further US$250 visa integrity fee became law in 2025 and is charged when the visa is issued where it has been implemented; budget about R4,100 more to be safe.
Trips to the USA on Passport Fund
Quick answers
Do South Africans need a visa for the USA?
Yes. South Africans need a US B1/B2 visitor visa to visit the USA. Apply 3+ months ahead: interview waits have run to several months.
How long can South Africans stay in the USA?
Up to 6 months per entry.
How much does it cost?
About R3 050 (estimate).
Sources
Checked Sep 2026.
Visa rules change without notice. Always confirm with the embassy or the official portal before booking non-refundable travel.