Waiting Time

The processing time for applications is normally up to 15 calendar days after the embassy or consulate has received the application. In some cases, applications are sent to the Directorate of Immigration (UDI), and the processing time in these cases may be up to 45 calendar days.

For citizens of certain countries, we cannot grant a visa before we have consulted other Schengen member states. This process takes up to seven days. For information on which countries such prior consultation applies to, please click here.

Apply well in advance of your travel
We recommend that you apply at least 4 weeks prior to departure. You may register and submit your application 6 months before your planned trip.

The processing time is counted from the day the application is received at the Embassy until the passport is picked up by the VFS courier in Pretoria. Therefore, please also take the extra courier/transport time between VFS Pretoria and the Embassy into account.