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South Africa

No visa required in advance for a tourist stay under 90 days.

Reviewed by TripminuteFrench passport · tourism · short stayInformation reviewed on August 9, 2026
The 30-second summary
DocumentPassport with 2 blank pages, valid for at least 30 days beyond the planned exit.
EntryShort stay visa-free

No visa required in advance for a tourist stay under 90 days.

DurationA 90-day visitor permit is issued at the border.
Key warningCheck the date written on the entry stamp immediately.

Before you book

This block covers the standard case stated above. If your situation differs, open the consular source directly.

Document

Passport with 2 blank pages, valid for at least 30 days beyond the planned exit.

Entry

No visa required in advance for a tourist stay under 90 days.

Duration

A 90-day visitor permit is issued at the border.

Vaccines and health

Recommendations depend on age, health, stopovers, regions and season.

A travel medicine consultation is important: yellow fever, malaria and recommended vaccines depend on the country, transit and itinerary.
  • Check yellow fever certificate rules based on origin, transit and areas visited.
  • Assess malaria prevention, hepatitis A, typhoid, rabies and meningitis according to the trip.
  • Seek advice several weeks before departure and use strict mosquito protection.

Driving locally

An international driving permit is a translation: it never replaces your valid French licence.

The French licence must be accompanied by an international permit, official translation or local authorisation depending on the country.

Service-Public · international permit

Documents to prepare

  • Required identity document and a separate copy
  • Authorisation, visa or QR code available offline
  • Return ticket and first accommodation address
  • Medical insurance and assistance number
  • Prescriptions and medicines in original packaging
  • French licence and any required supporting permit

What can change the answer

Dual nationality or residence permitTransit through border controlMinor travelling alone or with one parentWork, internship, volunteering or a longer stayEmergency, damaged or nearly expired passportControlled medication or specialist equipment

Frequently asked questions

Is a visa or authorisation required?

No visa required in advance for a tourist stay under 90 days.

Which vaccines should I consider?

A travel medicine consultation is important: yellow fever, malaria and recommended vaccines depend on the country, transit and itinerary.

Is a French driving licence sufficient?

The French licence must be accompanied by an international permit, official translation or local authorisation depending on the country.

When should this information be checked again?

Check once before any non-refundable purchase, then again 48 to 72 hours before departure. The destination authorities and carrier retain the final say.