South Africa Study Permit: How to Study in South Africa as a Foreigner

Who Needs a South Africa Study Permit?

Any foreign national who intends to enrol in a full-time educational course at a South African institution for more than 90 days requires a Study Permit. This applies to: - University and college students - School pupils - Students at private colleges, vocational training institutions, and English language schools (if enrolled for more than 90 days) Short visits (under 90 days) for intensive courses may be covered under a visitor visa, but formal enrolment requires a Study Permit. ---ASSESSMENT_CTA--- ## Requirements for a South Africa Study Permit - Proof of acceptance at a registered South African educational institution (acceptance letter) - Proof of financial means to cover tuition fees and living expenses - Comprehensive medical insurance valid in South Africa - Police clearance from your home country (for adults 18+) - Medical certificate - Valid passport (with at least 30 days beyond intended stay) - Proof of return travel or proof of onward arrangements (for temporary students) - For children: additional documentation including birth certificate and parental consent ## Can You Work on a Study Permit? South Africa does not have a formal "student work right" like some other countries. The Study Permit does not automatically authorise part-time employment. However, in some cases, work may be permitted if: - The work is part of the academic programme (e.g. internships, placements that form part of the degree) - The institution endorses the work arrangement Students who wish to work outside this narrow framework need separate work authorisation. ## Which Institutions Are Registered? Only institutions registered with the Department of Higher Education and Training (DHET) or the relevant provincial education authority qualify for Study Permit applications. This includes public and private universities, TVET colleges, and accredited private colleges. ## Duration of the Study Permit The Study Permit is issued for the duration of the course (up to the completion date), typically capped at 1 year at a time, with renewal required annually. ## Can You Stay After Completing Your Studies? The Study Permit expires upon the completion of your studies (or its stated end date). There is no automatic "graduate stay" pathway in South Africa as there is in some other countries. To remain after completing your studies, you would need to apply for a relevant permit — such as a Work Permit, Critical Skills Permit, or another applicable route. ## Applying as a Child Children attending school in South Africa on a Study Permit have slightly different requirements. The child's Study Permit application must include: - Proof of enrolment at a registered school - Proof of parental or guardian support (financially and physically) - If only one parent is in South Africa, consent from the absent parent or proof of sole custody NWI assists students and their families with South African Study Permit applications, renewals, and transitions to other permit categories after graduation.