South Africa vs Australia: tourist visa
South Africa or Australia for a tourist visa? Side by side: $85 vs $375 all-in, 10 to 15 days vs About 30 days decision, funds to show, process type, biometrics and which one fits your plan.
Verdict
- South Africa is cheaper ($85 vs $375 all-in)
- South Africa decides faster (10 to 15 days)
- South Africa asks for less money in the bank ($1,500 vs $3,500)
South Africa vs Australia: tourist visa side by side
| South Africa | Australia | |
|---|---|---|
| Visa format | Sticker | E-visa |
| Process | sticker visa | e-visa |
| Biometrics | Required | No |
| Interview | No | No |
| Government fee | $26 | $176 |
| vistolane filing fee | $59 | $199 |
| All-in per traveller | $85 | $375 |
| Decision window | 10 to 15 days | About 30 days |
| Validity | 90 days | 12 months |
| Stay | Up to 90 days | Up to 3 months per visit |
| Entries | Multiple | Multiple |
| Funds to show (tourist visa) | $1,500 | $3,500 |
| tourist visa route | Visitor | Visitor 600 |
Which is cheaper?
South Africa costs $85 all-in ($26 government fee plus $59 filing) and Australia costs $375 ($176 plus $199). South Africa is cheaper by $290 per traveller. Neither figure includes optional attention plans or airport transfers.
Which is faster?
South Africa: 10 to 15 days (10 to 15 days). Australia: About 30 days (Visitor (600): 75% within about 30 days). vistolane quotes a guaranteed decision date for both before you pay.
Which needs less money in the bank?
South Africa asks for about $1,500 and Australia about $3,500 for a tourist visa. South Africa is the lower bar. In both, statements must be seasoned for three months and match the plan you describe.
How the processes differ
South Africa: sticker visa with biometrics. Australia: e-visa. An e-visa needs no appointment; a sticker visa holds your passport for the decision window; an embassy visa adds an interview and a decision at the window.
Which should you pick for a tourist visa?
For a short trip, weigh speed and entries: South Africa decides in 10 to 15 days. If you are choosing purely on cost, South Africa wins.