Any foreigner who intends to seek medical treatment in South Africa at a medical institution for more than 3 months, needs to apply for a medical visa. The medical permit allows foreigners to stay in South Africa temporarily whilst undergoing treatment at their preferred medical institution.
A medical visa would only be approved if the foreigner needs to undergo treatment at a private hospital, public hospital, rehabilitation centres and detox clinics in South Africa. Please note that a medical permit holder may not work or apply for work while in the country.
To qualify for this visa an applicant must have a letter from the applicant’s registered medical practitioner or medical institution within the Republic, confirming;
- That space is available at the medical institution;
- The estimated costs of the treatment;
- Whether or not the disease or ailment is treatable;
- The period and details of the treatment in the Republic.