Immigration

Compliance with immigration laws of the Department of Home Affairs (DHA), VFS Global as well as various aspects of being a resident of South Africa will require a supporting letter from University of the Western Cape (UWC) International Student Services Office (ISSO).

In our endeavour to serve international students of UWC, the ISSO makes it possible to request numerous documents through our digital platform for your convenience. 

CLICK HERE to request any of our immigration supporting letters (e.g. Visa undertaking) provided by ISSO.

VISA Applications

According to the Higher Education Act 101 of 1997, UWC may not admit foreign students without valid and appropriate immigration documentation. Arriving with inappropriate immigration documents will result in disappointment. 

More information on the South African Visa requirements can be obtained here.

Apply for a Study Visa from the South African High Commission, Embassy, Consulate or Trace Mission in your country of residence. If there is no South African representative in your country, apply to the nearest representative in your home country.

Furthermore, according to the Immigration Regulations 2014 (12), foreign students are required to provide "proof of medical cover renewed annually for the period of study with a medical scheme registered in terms of the Medical Schemes Act". For more information, view our Medical Aid Schemes. Refer to the supporting information below to request relevant support letters from UWC ISSO.

VISA / Permit Renewal

VFS Global is the delegated authority of the DHA entrusted with the responsibility of the following processes:

• Temporary Resident Visa

• Application of Change of Conditions on Existing Visa or Change of Status

• Application for Renewal of Existing Visa

• Application for Corporate Visa

• Application for Permanent Residence Status

• Appeals

• Waivers

• Exemption

For assistance preparing your VFS Application, click here and follow Steps 1-3.

To complete your Application Form for any of the processes stated above, click here. 

Note:

• Applications should be submitted 60 days before the expiry of current Visa.

• Any international student on a short term visitor’s Visa will not be permitted to change the Visa type and conditions, unless in exceptional circumstances.

• Failure to supply the required documentation can severely affect the success of your application. We therefore recommend that you learn what is required before submitting to VFS.