The South Africa Family (Relatives) Visa allows close family members of South African citizens or permanent residents to join them in the country. This visa is available for relatives such as parents, children, spouses, and siblings, although some may only qualify for temporary residence, while others can apply for permanent residence.
What Is the South Africa Family (Relatives) Visa?
The South Africa Family (Relatives) Visa is a permit that enables foreign nationals who are related to South African citizens or permanent residents to live with them in South Africa. The visa applies to individuals who wish to join their family members for long-term stays, with some relatives potentially qualifying for permanent residency based on their relationship to the sponsor.
Who Qualifies for a Relatives Visa in South Africa?
Only close family members of a South African citizen or permanent resident are eligible. These include:
- Parents
- Children
- Spouses
- Siblings
However, siblings can only apply for a temporary residence permit, while spouses, parents, and children are eligible for permanent residence permits.
Eligibility Criteria for a South Africa Family Visa
The specific requirements for the visa depend on the relationship with the South African citizen or resident:
- Life Partners (not legally married): Must provide proof of cohabitation and shared financial responsibilities for at least two years.
- Parents and Children: Must provide an unabridged birth certificate proving the biological link.
- Siblings: Must submit both the applicant’s and the South African citizen’s/resident’s unabridged birth certificates.
Spouses and civil partners do not need to provide evidence of cohabitation.
Requirements for a South Africa Family Visa
When applying for a family visa, the following documents are required:
- Valid passport with at least two blank pages.
- Completed application form (DHA-1738).
- Copy of the passport’s bio page.
- Two passport-sized photographs adhering to immigration guidelines.
- Proof of travel arrangements, such as round-trip tickets.
- Proof of sufficient funds, such as bank statements from the last three months.
- Proof of accommodation, including a letter from the host or hotel reservations.
- Proof of the sponsor’s legal status in South Africa (ID book or passport copy for citizens).
- Medical and radiology reports, which should not be older than six months (exemptions for pregnant women and children under 12).
- Police clearance certificate from all countries where the applicant has lived for 12 months or longer since the age of 18.
- Marriage certificate, if applicable.
- Affidavit of spousal relationship and proof of cohabitation and financial responsibility for life partners.
- Proof of relationship, demonstrating that the applicant has been in a relationship for at least two years, if applicable.
For minor applicants:
- Court order, if applicable, authorizing parental responsibilities.
- Parental consent from both parents.
- Proof of adoption, if applicable.
- Proof of kinship, such as a birth certificate or paternity test results.
How to Apply for a Family Visa in South Africa?
The application process involves the following steps:
- Determine your eligibility: Ensure you qualify based on your relationship with the South African citizen or resident.
- Schedule an appointment with a South African embassy or consulate or a visa application center.
- Prepare your documents: Collect all required documentation from both the applicant and the sponsor.
- Submit your application: Attend the appointment and provide the necessary documents. You may also need to attend an interview where you will discuss your plans in South Africa.
Processing Time for a South Africa Family Visa
The processing time for a family visa is approximately five months. It could take longer if further documentation is needed or if there are errors in the application.
Costs of a South Africa Family (Relatives) Visa
For spouses and dependent children of South African citizens or permanent residents, the visa is issued free of charge. For other family members, the fee is R425 (approximately $24), though fees may vary depending on the country from which the application is made.
Financial Requirements
The applicant must demonstrate financial stability, showing at least R8,500 per month (approximately $495). This financial requirement does not apply to spouses or minor children, but the sponsor must prove that they can support their relative financially.
Validity of the Family Visa
The family visa is typically valid for 24 months and can be extended in two-year increments by applying for an extension while in South Africa.
Can You Work on a Relative Visa in South Africa?
No, holders of a South Africa family (relatives) visa are not permitted to work or study in the country. The visa is strictly for family reunification purposes, and the sponsor must prove financial capability to support the applicant during their stay.
Can the Family Visa Lead to Permanent Residency?
Yes, but only for certain family members. Spouses and children of South African citizens or permanent residents may be eligible for permanent residency. Other relatives, such as siblings, can only obtain a temporary residence permit.
For more detailed information, always check with the South African Department of Home Affairs or the nearest South African embassy or consulate in your country.