A visa for treatment in South Africa allows a foreign citizen to receive specialized medical care in South Africa. The country is equipped with modern medical institutions capable of treating almost any existing disease and injury.

Medical visas can be issued for a maximum period of six months at a time. Except in cases of medical treatment OR if the applicant is the spouse or dependent child of a business or work visa holder, a port of entry visa, visitor visa, and treatment visa holder may not apply to change the conditions of the existing visa unless he or she has a letter issued on behalf of the Home Secretary stating that good cause has been shown for making such an application.

To apply for a medical visa, you must provide the following documents:

• A duly completed BI-1738 questionnaire
• Passport with at least 1 free visa page
• The passport must be valid for 30 days after the end of the intended visit
• Payment of the established fee
• Confirmation of the availability of funds to cover your daily expenses, as well as the expenses of the persons accompanying you (the holder of the medical permit), if any, in the form of:

1. bank account statements
2. cash
3. or traveler's checks

• A letter from your doctor or medical facility stating the reasons/need for treatment, period of treatment, and details of treatment plans in the Republic of South Africa
• Information about the person or facility responsible for your medical expenses and payment for hospital services
• If your health plan or employer is not responsible for the costs incurred, you must provide proof of funds or medical coverage
• Proof of the availability of sufficient financial funds or security for costs indirectly related to treatment.
• Information about persons accompanying you
• A copy of the round trip ticket.
• Please note that the Department may request a cash deposit equivalent to the cost of an air ticket to your country of origin or residence.
• Vaccination certificate if required by law.

Please note that the medical permit holder is not allowed to work or seek employment while in the country.