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Visa requirements · updated Jul 2026

Do South Africa citizens need a visa for India?

e-Visa / ETA

South Africa citizens need an e-Visa or ETA to enter India — applied for online before departure.

Get a India visa → India → South Africa
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e-Visa / ETA
South Africa → India
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Hotels

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Coverage for your whole trip.

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South Africa vs India: passport comparison

South Africa

61

visa-free countries

Global rank: #97 · mobility 111.5

India

27

visa-free countries

Global rank: #137 · mobility 85
22

countries both South Africa and India can enter visa-free together

India: good to know

New Delhi

Capital

Indian Rupee (INR)

Currency

India Standard Time (UTC+5:30)

Time zone

+91

Calling code

Where else South Africa goes visa-free

→ AngolaVisa-free · 30 days → → Antigua and BarbudaVisa-free · 180 days → → ArgentinaVisa-free · 90 days → → BahamasVisa-free · 90 days → → BarbadosVisa-free · 180 days → → BelizeVisa-free · 90 days → → BeninVisa-free · 90 days → → BotswanaVisa-free · 90 days → → BrazilVisa-free · 90 days →
Check another route

Documents you'll usually need for India

The usual basics for the trip. Always confirm exact requirements with the embassy or consulate.

Valid passport

Valid at least 6 more months

Return / onward ticket

Proof you will leave the country

Proof of funds

Enough money for your stay

Accommodation

Hotel booking or an invitation

Travel insurance

Recommended, sometimes required

e-Visa / eTA

Applied for online before you fly

Frequently asked

Do South Africa citizens need a visa for India?
South Africa citizens need an e-Visa or ETA to enter India — applied for online before departure.
Which passport is stronger — South Africa or India?
The South Africa passport is stronger: 61 visa-free countries versus 27. Global rank: South Africa #97, India #137.
Where can South Africa and India citizens travel together visa-free?
Both passports get visa-free access to 22 of the same countries.
What documents do I need for India?
Usually: a valid passport (6+ months), a return ticket, proof of funds and accommodation. Plus an e-Visa or eTA applied for online before you fly. Always confirm exact requirements with the embassy.
Can visa requirements change between South Africa and India?
Yes, visa rules change periodically. This data is current as of Jul 2026 — always confirm with the embassy before you travel.

South Africa passport ranking

Where else the South Africa passport can take you and how it ranks worldwide.

View the passport →