Do Thai citizens need a visa for South Africa?
The official link goes to dha.gov.za. NUM isn’t a government agency or a visa service. Rules change, so confirm on the official site before you pay or travel.
South Africa entry rules for Thai citizens.
| Verdict | Visa-free |
|---|---|
| Document | None |
| Stay | Up to 30 days per visit (visa exemption) |
| Checked | Verified on an official page · 2026-10-11 |
The rest of the trip for a Thai passport, from the arrival form to customs and travelling with children: South Africa entry requirements.
The details for a Thai passport.
Asterisked on the DHA list: visa fees apply only if the intended visit exceeds 30 days, so stays over 30 days need a visa applied for in advance. (Thai diplomatic/official/service passports get 90 days; ordinary passports 30 days.) Visa-exempt travellers may apply for South Africa's ETA voluntarily (optional, ZAR 500) but do not need it; visa-free stays were not withdrawn when the ETA launched (Aug 2026).
How long it must be valid.
Passport must be valid for at least 30 days after the date you intend to leave South Africa.
Recent changes in South Africa.
- 2025-10 — ETA pilot began for G20 delegations from China, India, Indonesia and Mexico (OR Tambo and Cape Town; Lanseria added Nov 2025).
- 2025-12-09 — DHA reissued its visa-exemption list (adds 2025 exemptions such as Bulgaria, Croatia, Estonia, Latvia, Romania, Slovakia).
- 2026-02-12 — ETA opened to ordinary-passport holders of China, India, Indonesia and Mexico entering via OR Tambo, Cape Town or Lanseria.
The short answers.
Do Thai citizens need a visa for South Africa?
No. Thai citizens don’t need a visa for South Africa for stays of up to 30 days per visit (visa exemption).
How long can Thai citizens stay in South Africa?
Up to 30 days per visit (visa exemption). Longer stays need a different visa.
Where do Thai citizens apply?
On the official site, dha.gov.za. NUM links it and never charges for the link.
Does NUM issue South Africa visas?
No. Only the government issues them. NUM explains the rule for your passport, links the official site, and can file the form for you where its desk covers it.