Know Before You Go



WHAT DOCUMENTS DO I NEED BEFORE I GO ABROAD?

There’s no procrastinating when it comes to obtaining the proper documents to go abroad! You will need a valid passport and a student visa to stay in South Africa. You also need evidence that you have enough money for your trip and/or have ongoing or return transportation tickets.

HOW DO I APPLY FOR A STUDENT VISA?

Although this process can be quite complicated, you have nothing to worry about as long as you follow the instructions below and are aware of the deadlines. The CEL will help guide you along, but you are ultimately responsible for obtaining the appropriate documents. Instructions on how to obtain a student visa are as follows:

1. After being accepted into the program by Loras, you will need to complete an application to the University of Pretoria. The application will then be faxed and sent via air mail to the University of Pretoria.

2. You must then complete the student visa application. Besides filling out the 13 page visa application, you must have copies of the following documents:


 * Bank Statement demonstrating financial solvency for the time you will be in South Africa
 * Travel itinerary
 * Copy of your social security card
 * Copy of your driver’s license
 * Copy of your student ID card
 * Copy of your medical insurance card
 * Copy and original of your passport (original must be submitted as well because that is where the actual visa will be stamped)
 * Original copy of your physician’s health report
 * Notarized copy of your birth certificate
 * Notarized statement of no intent to work
 * Confirmation statement from Loras
 * Acceptance letter from the University of Pretoria
 * Police clearance certificates
 * Processing fee

3. The completed visa application can either be mailed or submitted in person at the following locations:


 * South African Consulate General-Chicago

Phone: (312) 939-7929

Email: [mailto:sagconsular@sacg.xohost.com sagconsular@sacg.xohost.com]


 * South African Embassy-Washington D.C.

Phone: (202) 232-4400

Email: safrica@saembassy.org

Telephone: (212)213-4880
 * South African Consulate General-NY

Email: sacg@southafrica-newyork.net

Telephone: (323) 651-0902
 * South African Consulate General-LA

Email:sacgla@link2sa.com

4. Applications for study permits/visas should be submitted to the nearest South African Mission at least 6 to 8 weeks prior to applicant’s expected departure from the U.S.A.