| Money you must show | No single national figure: 'sufficient financial means' to cover fees and living costs Some missions set their own minimum. The High Commission in Canberra asks for at least ZAR 3,000 a month shown on three months of certified bank statements. Source: DIRCO: South African High Commission, Canberra, checked 26 October 2026 |
|---|---|
| Visa fee | R425 Home Affairs fee inside South Africa, plus R1,750 VFS service fee VFS fee effective from 22 June 2026. Abroad, missions charge in local currency, for example AUD 37 in Canberra. Source: University of Cape Town, Visas and immigration, checked 13 November 2026 |
| Work while you study | Up to 20 hours a week You need a job offer and a letter from your institution. Practical training that is part of your qualification is allowed separately. Source: DIRCO: South African High Commission, Canberra, checked 26 October 2026 |
| Stay after you graduate | No dedicated post-study visa You must qualify for a work visa, such as the critical skills work visa, which now requires a signed employment contract. Source: Department of Home Affairs, critical skills work visa requirements, checked 24 September 2026 |