Study Visa

Study Visa used to be issued for a variety of educational activities in South Africa, but under the current Immigration Regulations 2014 those visas are no longer be issued for language courses, practical training or other education but only for education / studies offered by any institution of higher education, college or school under the South African Schools Act of 1996, the Higher Education Act of 1997 or the Further Education and Training Colleges Act of 2006 as amended.

But the study visa can now be issued for the whole education term, for a period of up to eight years, section 12(2)(b). It covers the studies at public and private schools, colleges, and universities as well as Technicon and specialised educational facilities as far as being accredited under any of the above laws.

Under a student visa, the student is allowed to work a maximum of 20 hours per week, but unlimited hours during university breaks.

Those students who are in their final year of studies of any critical skill may no longer apply for a permanent residence permit.