Ireland visa for South African citizens

As an Ireland passport holder, you'll be pleased to know that travel to South Africa is visa-free for short tourist stays, allowing you to enjoy up to 90 days exploring the diverse landscapes. While no visa is required for this duration, it's worth noting that you'll find readily available flights from major Irish airports to hubs like Johannesburg and Cape Town, though consider the significant time difference of GMT+2. Familiarize yourself with the South African Rand (ZAR) before your trip, and be aware that the peak travel seasons from December to February can mean higher flight prices, so planning ahead is advisable.

Visa required· verified 2026-05-27

Entry requirements

Passport validity
6+ months
Yellow fever cert.
Not required
Biometrics
Required

Visa options

OtherShort Stay 'C' Visa (General - Single Entry)
90d$65valid 3mo
Apply
OtherShort Stay 'C' Visa (General - Multiple Entry)
90d$108multiple-entryvalid 5y
Apply
TransitTransit Visa (Irish Airport Transit Visa)
1d$27
Apply
OtherLong Stay 'D' Visa (General - Single Entry)
$65
Apply
OtherLong Stay 'D' Visa (General - Multiple Entry)
$108multiple-entryvalid 5y
Apply
StudentLong Stay 'D' Visa (Study)
$65
Apply
FamilyLong Stay 'D' Visa (Join Family)
$65
Apply
WorkLong Stay 'D' Visa (Employment / Work)
$65
Apply
WorkLong Stay 'D' Visa (Minister of Religion)
$65
Apply
WorkLong Stay 'D' Visa (Volunteer)
$65
Apply
Working HolidayWorking Holiday Authorisation
365dmultiple-entryvalid 1y
Apply
WorkCritical Skills Employment Permit
Apply
WorkGeneral Employment Permit
Apply
WorkIntra-Company Transfer Employment Permit
Apply
WorkContract for Services Employment Permit
Apply
WorkDependant / Partner / Spouse Employment Permit
Apply
WorkInternship Employment Permit
Apply
WorkExchange Agreement Employment Permit
Apply
WorkSport and Cultural Employment Permit
Apply
WorkReactivation Employment Permit
Apply

Sources