Last Updated: 16 September 2026
Germany is a major business destination for South Africans, from trade fairs to head-office visits. If Germany is your main destination, apply for the Schengen visa through Germany.
Tell us your travel dates, purpose and number of applicants for a Germany visa.
Get Visa AssistanceDo South Africans Need a Visa for Germany?
Yes. South African ordinary passport holders need a Schengen visa for short visits to Germany. Apply to Germany if it is your main destination - the country where you spend the most nights - or your first point of entry when nights are equal.
Germany Visa Requirements for South Africans
Requirements vary according to visa type and applicant circumstances. Germany applies the common Schengen rules: a clear travel purpose, sufficient funds, accommodation, travel medical insurance of at least €30,000 and evidence you will return to South Africa. See Schengen Visa South Africa for the rules that apply to every member country.
Confirm the latest requirements on the embassy website before submitting your application.
Types of Germany Visas
| Visa or permission | Typically used for |
|---|---|
| Short-stay Schengen type C visa | Tourism, family visits, business - up to 90 days in 180 |
| National long-stay type D visa | Study, work, family reunification - national rules |
Germany Tourist Visa
Tourist trips to Berlin, Munich or the Christmas markets use the type C visa.
Germany Business Visa
Trade fairs in Frankfurt, Munich, Düsseldorf and Hanover bring many South African business applications. Include the fair registration, the invitation and your company letter.
How to Apply for a Germany Visa from South Africa
- Confirm Germany is your main destination.
- Complete the application form.
- Book with Germany's external provider (TLScontact at the time of writing).
- Submit documents and biometrics.
- Pay fees.
- Collect your passport.
Germany Visa Cost in South Africa
| Cost item | Amount | Type |
|---|---|---|
| Schengen visa fee - adult | €90 (approx. R1,700) | Official visa fee, paid in Rand |
| Schengen visa fee - child 6 to 11 | €45 (approx. R850) | Official visa fee |
| Application centre service fee | TLScontact service fee - check current amount | Provider service fee |
| Travel medical insurance (€30,000+ cover) | Varies by trip length and age | Third-party cost |
| Visa assistance (form, booking, file review) | R1,200 - R3,500 per applicant | Optional assistance fee |
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.
Get the assistance fee for your actual Germany application rather than a range.
Compare Visa Assistance QuotesGermany Visa Processing Time
Schengen consulates normally decide within 15 calendar days of a complete application, extendable to 45 days.
Processing times are estimates and can change.
Where to Apply in South Africa
Germany uses an external provider for short-stay visas in South Africa - TLScontact at the time of writing. Check the German Missions in South Africa website for centres and current rules.
Documents Needed
| Document | Notes |
|---|---|
| Application form | Signed |
| Passport | Issued within 10 years |
| Insurance | €30,000 minimum |
| Invitation letter | For business or family |
| Trade fair registration | Where relevant |
| Company letter | Purpose and who pays |
| Bank statements | Recent |
Common Reasons Visa Applications Are Delayed
- Trade fair season appointment pressure.
- Invitation letters missing host details.
- Unclear who is paying for the trip.
Visa Application Assistance
Corporate travellers can use corporate visa services to manage several applications. See also visa application assistance.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do South Africans need a visa for Germany?
Yes, a Schengen visa for short visits.
Who handles German visa applications in South Africa?
Germany uses an external provider - TLScontact at the time of writing.
What do I need for a German trade fair visa?
Usually the fair registration or invitation, a company letter, proof of funds and travel insurance.
Use Visa Application to get more than one quote before you pay anyone to help with a Germany 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.
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