How Much Does a US Visa Cost in South Africa?

Applying for a US visa from South Africa requires both time and money. Understanding the costs involved is essential for budgeting and planning your travel to the United States. In this guide, we break down the fees, explain the types of visas, and share some important details to make the process smoother.

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Understanding US Visa Costs in South Africa

So, how much does a US visa cost in South Africa? The answer depends on the type of visa you are applying for. Visa costs can vary significantly based on whether it’s a tourist visa, work visa, or student visa. Here, we’ll go through the fees for each category to give you a clear picture.

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Tourist Visa (B-1/B-2): How Much Does It Cost?

The tourist visa, also known as the B-1/B-2 visa, is for those traveling for leisure, tourism, or short business trips. How much does a US visa cost in South Africa for tourists? Currently, the fee is $185, which is approximately 3,600 South African Rand (ZAR). This fee must be paid before scheduling an interview.

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Student Visa (F-1/M-1): Understanding the Fees

For students planning to study in the United States, the F-1 or M-1 visa is required. How much does a US visa cost in South Africa for students? The F-1 and M-1 visas also cost $185 (around 3,600 ZAR). Additionally, there may be a SEVIS fee of $350 (about 6,800 ZAR) for students applying for the F-1 visa.

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Work Visa (H-1B, L-1, O-1): Cost Breakdown

The work visa category includes different types, such as H-1B, L-1, and O-1 visas. The cost for these visas can vary based on the type and duration of employment. The typical H-1B visa fee is $190 (roughly 3,700 ZAR), while L-1 and O-1 visas also require the same payment. But, in some cases, additional costs might apply, especially for employer-sponsored visas.

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K-1 Visa: For Fiancés of US Citizens

If you’re engaged to a US citizen and planning to marry, you might be interested in the K-1 visa. How much does a US visa cost in South Africa for this purpose? The fee for a K-1 visa is currently $265 (about 5,100 ZAR). This fee does not include additional costs, such as medical examinations or travel expenses to the interview location.

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Non-Immigrant Visa Application Fee: General Information

The non-immigrant visa application fee is what most applicants will pay. How much does a US visa cost in South Africa for non-immigrants? The standard fee for non-immigrant visas is $185. Remember, this fee is non-refundable, meaning if your visa application is denied, you won’t receive a refund.

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Additional Costs: Medical Exams and Document Preparation

Applying for a US visa often includes other costs beyond the visa application fee. For example, applicants may need to undergo a medical examination from an approved clinic, which could cost between 1,500 ZAR and 3,000 ZAR. Also, if you need assistance in preparing your documents or help from a visa consultant, this can add to the cost.

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How Much Does a US Visa Cost in South Africa for Children?

If you’re traveling with children, you might wonder, how much does a US visa cost in South Africa for minors? The fee for children under 14 years of age applying for tourist or student visas is typically the same as adult applicants, around $185. However, there are sometimes waivers for very young children in specific categories.

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When to Pay the Visa Fee

Knowing when and how to pay the US visa fee is crucial in your application process. After submitting your application online, you must pay the visa fee before booking your interview. Payment methods usually include bank transfers or electronic payments, making it easier for South African applicants.

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Refund Policy: Is the Fee Refundable?

Unfortunately, if your visa application is denied, the US visa fee is non-refundable. This policy applies to all types of visas. If your visa is rejected, you’ll need to pay the fee again if you decide to reapply. This is an important point to consider when asking, how much does a US visa cost in South Africa.

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Are There Additional Costs for Urgent Applications?

If you need to expedite your application, there could be extra fees. While the US consulate doesn’t officially offer expedited processing fees for general applicants, some agencies may charge you for faster document preparation or scheduling assistance. Understanding these possible extra costs is essential to budget properly.

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Conclusion

So, how much does a US visa cost in South Africa? Here’s a quick recap:

• Tourist Visa (B-1/B-2): $185 (around 3,600 ZAR)
• Student Visa (F-1/M-1): $185 (3,600 ZAR), plus SEVIS fee of $350 (6,800 ZAR)
• Work Visa (H-1B, L-1, O-1): $190 (about 3,700 ZAR)
• Fiancé Visa (K-1): $265 (5,100 ZAR)
• Additional Medical Exam and Document Preparation Costs: 1,500–3,000 ZAR

The total cost will vary depending on visa type, any additional requirements, and if you need help with application preparation. Always check the latest information from the US embassy in South Africa, as fees can change.

Understanding the exact costs will help you plan better, ensuring a smoother visa application process. Keep in mind that while the application fees are a crucial part, additional expenses can arise, so budget accordingly.