VOLUNTEER VISA

Q: 1. What is a Volunteer Visa in South Africa?

A Volunteer Visa is a type of Visitor Visa (Section 11(1)(b)(ii)) that allows foreign nationals to live in South Africa temporarily while performing unpaid volunteer work with a registered organisation such as an NGO, church, school, or community project.

Q: 3. How long is a Volunteer Visa valid for?

A Volunteer Visa can be issued for up to 3 years , depending on the duration of the volunteer assignment. Most are initially granted for 6 to 12 months with possible extensions.

Q: 4. Can I be paid or receive a stipend while on a Volunteer Visa?

No. The visa is strictly for unpaid, charitable work . Receiving a salary or income could be seen as unauthorised employment and may result in visa cancellation or deportation . However, a daily stipend can be received under this type of visa to cover the volunteers’ basic or necessary expenses.

Q: 5. What are the main requirements for a Volunteer Visa?

You’ll typically need: A motivational letter from the host organization A valid passport (with at least 30 days after intended stay) Proof of accommodation in South Africa Proof of financial support (bank statements or sponsor letter) Medical and radiology reports Police clearance from countries lived in 12+ months since age 18 A completed DHA-1738 form

Q: 6. Can I apply for a Volunteer Visa from within South Africa?

No , first-time applications must be submitted at the South African embassy or consulate in your home country (or country of legal residence). Renewals/extensions must be submitted via VFS in South Africa before the visa expires.

Q: 8. Can I bring my spouse or children with me?

Yes, but they must apply for their own relevant visas (e.g., accompanying visa or study visa for minors). The Volunteer Visa does not automatically cover dependents .

Q: 9. What type of organisations can host volunteers?

Eligible host organisations include: Non-profits (NPOs/NGOs) Faith-based organisations or churches Charities Educational institutions Community upliftment projects They must be legally registered in South Africa and provide formal documentation.

Q: 10. How long does it take to process a Volunteer Visa?

Processing time at South African embassies typically takes 4–8 weeks , but it can vary based on location and seasonal demand. Applying well in advance is strongly advised.

Volunteering in South Africa has grown immensely popular, offering a wide range of opportunities. Whether you’re passionate about supporting community development or working with wildlife sanctuaries, there are numerous rewarding ways to make a positive impact.

MORE INFORMATION

WHAT IS A VOLUNTEER VISA?

The Volunteer Visa in South Africa, issued under section 11(1)(b)(ii) of the Immigration Act, permits holders to engage in voluntary and charitable work within the country. This visa category is specifically designed for individuals wishing to contribute their time and skills to nonprofit organisations, community projects, or wildlife conservation efforts.

While the Volunteer Visa allows applicants to receive a daily stipend to help cover basic living expenses, it does not permit full remuneration or salary payments. This ensures that the focus remains on voluntary service rather than employment.

HOW LONG IS A VOLUNTEER VISA VALID FOR?

A Volunteer Visa in South Africa can be issued for a maximum period of up to 3 years. Additionally, this visa is renewable within the country, allowing volunteers to extend their stay and continue their charitable work without needing to leave South Africa.

WHAT IS NEEDED TO QUALIFY FOR A VOLUNTEER VISA?

When applying for a Volunteer Visa in South Africa, the following key documents (among others) must be submitted:

Volunteer Agreement: A signed copy of the agreement or contract with the organisation where you will perform volunteer work.
Police Clearance Certificates: Original police clearance certificates from every country where you have lived for more than 12 months since turning 18 years old.
Medical Certificate: A medical certificate completed by a qualified medical practitioner following a basic health examination.
Radiological Report: A radiological report, including a chest X-ray, completed by a certified radiologist.
Proof of accommodation in South Africa
Proof of financial support (bank statements or sponsor letter)
Complete DHA – 1738 form

Providing these essential documents ensures your application meets the legal requirements set by the Department of Home Affairs.

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Frequently asked Questions (FAQ)

1. What is a Volunteer Visa in South Africa?

A Volunteer Visa is a type of Visitor Visa (Section 11(1)(b)(ii)) that allows foreign nationals to live in South Africa temporarily while performing unpaid volunteer work with a registered organisation such as an NGO, church, school, or community project.

2. Who qualifies for a Volunteer Visa?

Anyone from outside South Africa who wants to volunteer with a legitimate, registered organisation and will not be paid but the visa type allows for stipends to be paid to volunteers for their work — including gap year students, retirees, or professionals doing service work.

3. How long is a Volunteer Visa valid for?

A Volunteer Visa can be issued for up to 3 years, depending on the duration of the volunteer assignment. Most are initially granted for 6 to 12 months with possible extensions.

4. Can I be paid or receive a stipend while on a Volunteer Visa?

No. The visa is strictly for unpaid, charitable work. Receiving a salary or income could be seen as unauthorised employment and may result in visa cancellation or deportation. However, a daily stipend can be received under this type of visa to cover the volunteers’ basic or necessary expenses.

5. What are the main requirements for a Volunteer Visa?

You’ll typically need:

A motivational letter from the host organization
A valid passport (with at least 30 days after intended stay)
Proof of accommodation in South Africa
Proof of financial support (bank statements or sponsor letter)
Medical and radiology reports
Police clearance from countries lived in 12+ months since age 18
A completed DHA-1738 form

6. Can I apply for a Volunteer Visa from within South Africa?

No, first-time applications must be submitted at the South African embassy or consulate in your home country (or country of legal residence). Renewals/extensions must be submitted via VFS in South Africa before the visa expires.

7. Can I change my visa status from Volunteer to Work, Study, or Business Visa while in South Africa?

In general, no — South African immigration law requires such status changes to be done outside the country, unless you qualify under exceptional circumstances via a special application or waiver.

8. Can I bring my spouse or children with me?

Yes, but they must apply for their own relevant visas (e.g., accompanying visa or study visa for minors). The Volunteer Visa does not automatically cover dependents.

9. What type of organisations can host volunteers?

Eligible host organisations include:

Non-profits (NPOs/NGOs)
Faith-based organisations or churches
Charities
Educational institutions
Community upliftment projects

They must be legally registered in South Africa and provide formal documentation.

10. How long does it take to process a Volunteer Visa?

Processing time at South African embassies typically takes 4–8 weeks, but it can vary based on location and seasonal demand. Applying well in advance is strongly advised.

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