How to Get SAQA Verification in South Africa Official 2026 Fees, Turnaround Times and Apostilles

Applying for a job abroad, emigrating or registering with a foreign professional body? You will often be asked to prove that your South African degree or diploma is genuine. That proof is a SAQA verification letter. Here is how it works, what SAQA charges in 2026, how long it takes and how to get it apostilled for use abroad.

What is SAQA verification?

The South African Qualifications Authority (SAQA) keeps the National Learners’ Records Database, the national record of qualifications awarded by accredited South African institutions. A SAQA verification confirms that your qualification is genuine and was awarded to you, and SAQA issues a verification letter that employers, governments and professional bodies abroad can rely on.

Verification is not the same as a SAQA evaluation. Evaluation is a separate service for people with foreign qualifications who want them recognised in South Africa. Many websites mix the two up, which is why the fees quoted online vary so widely.

When do you need a SAQA verification letter?

• Jobs abroad: many overseas employers and recruiters ask for one before making an offer.
• Emigration and skilled visas: immigration authorities often need proof that your qualification is genuine.
• Professional registration: foreign regulatory and professional bodies may require it.
• Further study abroad: universities sometimes ask for verified qualifications.
• An apostille on your degree: DIRCO apostilles the SAQA letter, not your original degree certificate.

SAQA verification fees for 2026

SAQA’s current tariffs took effect on 1 April 2026. These are the official fees for South African qualifications:

Fees are charged per qualification. “Fieldwork” applies when SAQA has to check records outside its own databases. SAQA confirms your total in a quotation before you pay, and its fees can be reviewed each year.

How long does SAQA verification take?

The standard turnaround is 6 to 25 working days, counted from when SAQA has all the information it needs and has approved your application. If you are working to a deadline, the faster options of 3 to 5 working days or up to two working days cost more. If you also need an apostille, allow extra time for DIRCO, as explained in our apostille guide.

What you need

• Your full names and South African ID number, exactly as they appear on your records
• The correct qualification name and the institution that awarded it
• Copies of your qualification certificates, and any other certificates SAQA specifically asks for
• Your consent for SAQA to verify your records

Incorrect names, ID numbers or institution details are the most common cause of delays, so it pays to check them carefully before you submit.

SAQA, Umalusi or someone else?

Not every qualification goes to SAQA. Under DIRCO’s guidelines, the route depends on the document:

Getting your SAQA letter apostilled

If your qualification will be used in a country that belongs to the Apostille Convention, the SAQA letter usually needs an apostille from DIRCO. DIRCO does this free of charge, but since 1 September 2026 individuals must book online, and processing times depend on how you submit. For countries outside the Convention, such as the UAE, the letter needs DIRCO authentication and then embassy legalisation. Our guide to apostilles in South Africa covers the full process.

Doing it yourself vs using a service

You can apply to SAQA yourself. Using a service makes sense if you need several qualifications verified, are working to a deadline, live abroad, or also need the apostille and embassy steps. Our SAQA verification service covers the application and follow-up, and our documentation and legalisation service takes care of the apostille.

Frequently asked questions