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Schengen Visa Assistance for South Africans
South African passport holders need a Schengen visa for short visits to most European countries. We help you prepare an application that is complete, consistent and ready for your appointment.
What is a Schengen visa?
The Schengen area is a group of European countries that share a common border arrangement. One short stay Schengen visa lets you visit the member countries for tourism, business or family visits, for up to 90 days in any 180 day period.
You apply through the embassy or consulate of your main destination, usually via an appointment at an official visa application centre such as VFS Global.
Do I need a Schengen visa?
South African passport holders need a visa for short visits to the Schengen area.
Each traveller, including children, needs their own application.
If you hold another passport or a residence permit, requirements may differ. Ask us and we will help you check.
Where will your visa take you?
Italy
Colosseum, Rome
Spain
Old town skyline
Germany
Historic city gate
Netherlands
Windmills and canals
Belgium
Brussels landmarks
Sweden
Stockholm waterfront
And more
Ask us about any Schengen country on your route.
Which visa fits your trip?
Tourist visa
For holidays, sightseeing and short leisure trips. Your itinerary, bookings and finances tell the story of your trip.
Apply NowBusiness visa
For meetings, conferences and trade events. A letter from the host company and your employer is usually central.
Apply NowFamily or friends visit
For visiting loved ones or attending a special occasion. Your host usually provides an invitation letter and supporting documents.
Apply NowWhat documents will I need?
Choose your reason for travelling to see the documents usually requested.
Usually needed for every applicant
- Passport issued within the last 10 years, valid for at least three months after you leave, with two blank pages
- Completed and signed Schengen visa application form
- Recent passport photographs that meet the embassy specification
- Travel medical insurance valid for the whole Schengen area (typically at least €30,000 cover)
- Return flight reservation
- Proof of accommodation for every night of your stay
- Recent bank statements, often the last three months
- Proof of employment, business registration or study
Often added for tourism
- A day by day travel itinerary
- A cover letter explaining the purpose of your trip
- Approved leave letter from your employer
Often added for business travel
- Invitation letter from the company you are visiting
- Letter from your employer confirming the purpose of the trip
- Proof of the business relationship, such as event registration or correspondence
Often added for family and friends visits
- Invitation letter from your host
- A copy of your host's passport or residence permit
- Proof of your relationship, where relevant
- Your host's proof of address, or a formal hosting document where the country requires one
A helpful guide, not a final list. Exact requirements vary by embassy, by country and by your personal circumstances. We confirm your personal checklist before you start gathering documents.
Common mistakes we help you avoid
Most delays come from small, fixable details. Here is what we look out for on your behalf.
Applying to the wrong embassy
Your application generally goes to the country where you will spend the most time. We help you confirm the right one.
Dates that do not match
Flights, accommodation and insurance should all cover the same dates. We check that everything lines up.
Insurance that falls short
Travel medical insurance needs the right cover for the whole Schengen area. We help you check the policy wording.
Leaving it too late
Appointments fill up quickly in busy seasons. Starting early gives you time and peace of mind.
Missing signatures or pages
Small omissions can cause delays. Our review catches them before your appointment.
Unclear supporting letters
Employer and invitation letters should be clear and specific. We guide you on what to include.
Schengen questions
Have a question that is not listed here? Read the full FAQ or send us a message.
Usually the country where you will spend the most nights. If your time is split equally, you normally apply to the country you will enter first.
Yes. A Schengen visa generally allows you to travel between member countries during your trip, provided you follow the conditions on your visa.
A short stay Schengen visa allows up to 90 days in any 180 day period. The exact period granted is shown on your visa.
You can usually apply up to six months before travelling and no later than 15 days before. We recommend starting well in advance.