If you hold an existing study permit or study visa, and wish to extend your study period in South Africa, you should read the below information.
Firstly, let us deal with the terminology and what is the difference between a study permit and a study visa.
What’s the difference between a study permit and study visa?
It’s a cosmetic difference that came about with new immigration regulations in June 2014. Wishing to clarify the difference in types of applications the Department of Home Affairs altered the terminology to distinguish between temporary applications and permanent applications:
- Applications for temporary residence are now referred to as visas
- Applications for permanent residence are now referred to as permits
Therefore those wishing to study, as it falls under a temporary category, will now apply for a study visa. Those holding the ‘old’ study permits need not worry as the below information applies to them as well and they are in no way prejudiced against.
Can I apply for an extension of my study visa / permit?
Yes you can.
When do I need to apply?
Applications for renewing / extending your study visa or permit must be made in good time. The minimum period of time to submit your application for a renewal is 60 days prior to the expiry of your existing permit or visa.
Where should I apply?
As you are already in South Africa on a valid study permit or visa, you may make your application here.
What are the requirements?
The requirements are the same as if applying for a new study visa:
- See here for more details if you are a student at a higher learning institution
- See here for more details if you are applying for your dependant child to attend school
Can Intergate Immigration help?
For more information or to make an application for renewing or extending your study visa or study permit either call us on the above numbers or use the links below:
Getting help with your visa or permit application
We welcome the opportunity to consult with you as to your eligibility for a visa /permit and answer any questions you may have with no obligation.
You can take our free one minute assessment here or request a call back for more information. Or simply call us at +27 (0)21 424 2460.
Alternatively you can fill out the below online enquiry form to contact us.
Our telephone contact details including local lines for our Dutch, German and United Kingdom clients can be found on top of this page, feel free to call us and discuss your prospective application or current situation for a study visa for South Africa.
