South Africa passport → Congo

Do South African citizens need a visa for the Congo?

Visa required in advance

South African passport holders need a visa for the Congo, arranged before you travel. Depending on the country, that means an online application, a sponsor or agent, or an appointment at a visa centre.

What this means for your trip

Start early. Some countries take the whole application online; others need a visa-centre appointment for fingerprints, and waits can be long in peak season.
Typical documents: application form, photos, bank statements, tax returns, an employment letter, bookings and travel insurance.
If you already hold certain other visas, a simpler route may apply. Check the section below.

Get trip-ready for the Congo

Congo eSIMData the moment you land. Skip the SIM queue and roaming bills.See data plans →Things to do in the CongoTours, attraction passes and airport transfers, often cheaper booked ahead.Browse experiences →Flights to the CongoCompare hundreds of airlines and agencies in one search.Find cheap flights →Flight delayed or cancelled?You could be owed up to €600. Check your flight in two minutes.Check compensation →

Partner links: we may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you.

Congo at a glance

Capital: Brazzaville
Currency: Central African CFA franc (XAF)
Languages: French, Kikongo, Lingala
Calling code: +242
Region: Middle Africa

More about Congo →

Congo for other passports

South AfricaVisa required
IndiaVisa required
United StatesVisa required
United KingdomVisa required
United Arab EmiratesVisa on arrival30 days
ChinaVisa required
SingaporeVisa required
PakistanVisa required
BangladeshVisa required
Sri LankaVisa required
NepalVisa required
NigeriaVisa required
PhilippinesVisa required

Nearby in Middle Africa for South African passport holders

AngolaVisa-free90 days
GabonVisa-free30 days
CamerooneVisa
ChadeVisa
DR CongoeVisa7 days
Equatorial GuineaeVisa
Sao Tome and PrincipeeVisa
Central African RepublicVisa required

Common questions

Do South African citizens need a visa for the Congo?

South African passport holders need a visa for the Congo, arranged before you travel. Depending on the country, that means an online application, a sponsor or agent, or an appointment at a visa centre.

How long can South African citizens stay in the Congo?

The allowed stay depends on the visa you are granted. Check the decision letter or entry stamp.

Can South African citizens get a visa on arrival in the Congo?

Not under the standard rules.

How many countries can South African citizens visit without a visa?

93 destinations allow entry without a visa arranged in advance (visa-free, visa on arrival or eTA). The South Africa passport ranks #47 of 94 (passports with equal scores share a rank).

Source: Wikipedia contributors (CC BY-SA 4.0). Updated weekly. Rules can change, so give the official site a quick look before you fly.