Do Nigerian 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. This row comes from a reputable source NUM hasn’t yet confirmed on the official page.
South Africa entry rules for Nigerian citizens.
| Verdict | e-Visa before you fly |
|---|---|
| Document | South Africa eVisa (visitor visa) |
| Stay | Up to 90 days |
| When to apply | Apply well ahead |
| Checked | From a reputable source, not yet verified on the official page · 2026-10-11 |
The rest of the trip for a Nigerian passport, from the arrival form to customs and travelling with children: South Africa entry requirements.
The details for a Nigerian passport.
Not visa-exempt for ordinary passports (Nigeria exemption covers diplomatic/official passports only; Philippines not listed). Reported on the DHA eVisa eligibility list (July 2026); otherwise apply for a visitor visa through VFS/South African mission. DHA said more nationalities would move to the ETA 'over the coming weeks' after Aug 2026, so check eta.dha.gov.za first. eVisa fee not confirmed.
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 Nigerian citizens need a visa for South Africa?
Yes. Nigerian citizens apply online for the South Africa eVisa (visitor visa) before travelling for stays of up to 90 days.
How long can Nigerian citizens stay in South Africa?
Up to 90 days. Longer stays need a different visa.
When should Nigerian citizens apply?
Apply well ahead.
Where do Nigerian 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.