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South Africa
Passport · Africa

South Africa passport: visa-free countries in 2026

Ranked #43 of 199. Holders can travel to 98 destinations without arranging a visa in advance: 60 visa-free, 33 with a visa on arrival and 5 with an eTA.

Access by region

Destinations reachable without a visa arranged in advance. Access is widest in South America (10 of 12).

RegionEasy access
Europe 1/46
Asia 26/50
Africa 33/53
North America 19/23
South America 10/12
Oceania 9/14

Longest visa-free stays

DestinationMax stay
Georgia 360 days
Antigua and Barbuda 180 days
Barbados 180 days
Costa Rica 180 days
Dominica 180 days
El Salvador 180 days

Visa-free countries for South Africa passport holders

60 destinations

No visa needed for short visits. The number shows the maximum stay where it is known.

Visa on arrival

33 destinations

The visa is issued at the airport or border when you arrive, usually for a fee.

eTA required

5 destinations

No visa, but an electronic travel authorisation must be approved online before departure.

e-Visa available

29 destinations

A visa is required, and the application is made online without visiting an embassy.

Visa required

71 destinations

A visa must be obtained from an embassy, consulate or visa centre before travelling.

Check a specific destination

Entry requirement Choose a passport and a destination.

Frequently asked questions

How many countries can South Africa passport holders visit without a visa?

South Africa passport holders can visit 60 destinations visa-free. A further 33 issue a visa on arrival and 5 need only an online travel authorisation (eTA), for a total of 98 destinations without a visa arranged in advance.

How strong is the South Africa passport in 2026?

The South Africa passport ranks #43 of 199 passports in 2026, with a mobility score of 98.

Which countries require a visa for South Africa citizens?

71 destinations require South Africa citizens to get a visa before travelling, and 29 more offer an online e-Visa.

Where can South Africa passport holders stay the longest without a visa?

The longest visa-free stays are in Georgia (360 days), Antigua and Barbuda (180 days), Barbados (180 days), Costa Rica (180 days), Dominica (180 days), El Salvador (180 days).

Compare with similar passports

Travelling to South Africa instead? See South Africa visa requirements.

Data last updated February 2026. Entry rules can change at short notice and may depend on the purpose of your trip. Confirm with the destination's embassy or official immigration website before you travel.