An apostille certifies a South African public document for use in another Hague Convention country. It is common for long-stay visas, work permits, studies abroad and foreign marriages - less so for short tourist visas.
Not every visa applicant needs this document. Whether you need it depends on the destination, visa type and your circumstances - check the official checklist first.
Tell us the documents and the destination country.
Get Apostille QuotesWhich Route Applies
| Document | Typical route |
|---|---|
| Home Affairs certificates (birth, marriage) | DIRCO |
| SAPS police clearance certificate | DIRCO |
| Notarised documents and copies | High Court (via the Registrar) or DIRCO depending on the document |
| Academic qualifications | Verification first, then apostille |
Hague vs Non-Hague Countries
Hague Convention countries accept an apostille. Non-Hague countries usually need document authentication by DIRCO followed by legalisation at that country's embassy.
Apostille Fees
| Service | Amount | Type |
|---|---|---|
| DIRCO legalisation | Free or minimal at DIRCO - confirm current fee | Official |
| Agency apostille handling | R1,250 - R1,850 per document | Optional assistance fee |
| Notarisation before apostille | R250 - R600 per document | Third-party |
| Courier to and from Pretoria | R250 - R900 | Optional |
Fees may change and should be confirmed with the relevant government, embassy, consulate or authorised visa application provider before applying. Rand amounts are approximate conversions and assistance fees are indicative market ranges, not quotations.
Common Rejections
- Documents are copies rather than originals where originals are required.
- Police clearance older than the accepted age.
- Laminated documents.
- Signatures not on record with DIRCO.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is an apostille?
A certificate confirming a South African public document for use in Hague Convention countries.
Do I need an apostille for a tourist visa?
Rarely. Apostilles are more common for work, study, residence and marriage abroad.
How long does a DIRCO apostille take?
It varies with backlogs. Allow several weeks when submitting by courier.
Use Visa Application to get more than one quote before you pay anyone to help with a apostille application.
Related Pages
Visa approval is solely at the discretion of the relevant immigration authority. Visa Application is not a government department, embassy, consulate or visa application centre, and no provider can guarantee approval, appointment availability or processing time.
Tell us where you are travelling and when, and compare visa assistance quotes from independent providers.
Get 5 QuotesGet Apostille Services South Africa Quotes
Tell us your destination, travel purpose, travel date and number of applicants, and providers will quote you directly.
Free to use, no obligation. Your request goes to LEADERR APPROVED visa assistance providers, who quote you directly.
Client Reviews
Powered by leaderr
