New CaledoniaSouth Africa: Visa-free

New CaledoniaSouth Africa

Do France passport holders need a visa for South Africa?

Visa-free

No. France passport holders do not need a visa to visit South Africa for tourism for stays of up to 3 months.

No visa is required for a short tourist stay. Travel on a valid passport alone.

New Caledonia does not issue its own passport; residents travel on a France passport. See the France passport.

Source: dha.gov.za (checked July 18, 2026).

    RequirementVisa-free
    Maximum stay3 months
    ScopeTourism, ordinary passport
    Action before travelNone, travel on your passport
    Data as of2026-10-14
    Distance13,035 km, straight line (~15h 50m nonstop)
    Visa-free access to South Africa133 of 242 nationalities tracked

Travelling the other way? South Africa passport holders visiting New Caledonia: Visa required.

South Africa drives on the left, the opposite side to New Caledonia. If you're renting a car, budget extra care at first, especially at junctions and roundabouts.

Other visa-free destinations for France passport holders

See all France destinations →

Frequently asked questions

Do France passport holders need a visa for South Africa?

No. France passport holders do not need a visa to visit South Africa for tourism for stays of up to 3 months.

How long can France citizens stay in South Africa without a visa?

Up to 3 months, for tourism, ordinary passport.

How far is South Africa from New Caledonia?

About 13,035 km in a straight line, roughly ~15h 50m nonstop by air.

What currency is used in South Africa?

South African rand (ZAR).

What is the emergency number in South Africa?

112.

Does South Africa drive on the same side of the road as New Caledonia?

South Africa drives on the left, the opposite side to New Caledonia. If you're renting a car, budget extra care at first, especially at junctions and roundabouts.

What time zone is South Africa in?

Johannesburg (UTC+2).

What is the nearest airport to Pretoria?

Lanseria International Airport (HLA), about 34 km away.

How many countries can enter South Africa without a visa?

133 of the 242 nationalities this site tracks can enter South Africa visa-free, with a visa on arrival, or with an eTA.

Visa rules change frequently and can depend on your specific circumstances. This site is compiled from public government sources and is provided for general information only. Always confirm requirements with the official immigration authority or a consulate of your destination before you travel.