Germany visa requirements for South African passport holders
Yes. South African passport holders need a visa to visit Germany for tourism. The visa fee is EUR 90. A decision usually takes 15 days.
South African passport holders need a visa to visit Germany for tourism.
Get your documents complete and consistent before you apply, then check whether you are ready.
Fees and timing
| Visa fee | EUR 90 |
|---|---|
| Processing time | 15 days |
Not sure you are ready to apply?
Run a free readiness check. Meridian shows you what is still missing or inconsistent before you apply. We do not promise approval. We help you apply with confidence.
At the border
These apply when you cross the border. They are separate from your visa application.
Entry/Exit System (EES)
Border-crossing procedure at the border for travellers entering/exiting the Schengen Area; biometric data are collected/checked as part of border checks.
No start date has been confirmed. Applies to everyone crossing the border.
Why we say this
Regulation (EU) 2018/1806, Annex I
Verified on July 14, 2026 (110 days ago).
How applying works
Gather your documents
11 documents. Upload what you already have, we read them and fill the rest.
Review your application
Complete the official application form
Pay the EUR 90 visa fee
Paid at German Embassy Pretoria, German Consulate General Cape Town, TLScontact Bloemfontein, TLScontact Centurion, TLScontact Cape Town, TLScontact Durban, or TLScontact Port Elizabeth.
Book your biometrics appointment
Give your fingerprints and hand in your file at German Embassy Pretoria, German Consulate General Cape Town, TLScontact Bloemfontein, TLScontact Centurion, TLScontact Cape Town, TLScontact Durban, or TLScontact Port Elizabeth.
Then the consulate decides
Typically 15 calendar days.
Requirements last updated October 2026.