A South Africa Temporary Residence Visa allows foreign nationals to live in South Africa for a period longer than 90 days for various reasons such as work, study, family reunification, business, medical treatment, or retirement. The visa grants temporary residency, and after entry into the country, the individual must apply for a Temporary Residence Permit to validate their extended stay.
What is a Temporary Residence Visa?
A temporary residence visa is issued to foreign nationals who need to stay in South Africa for more than 90 days. The visa applies to various situations like work, studying, joining family members, business purposes, and other activities that require a longer stay. The type of visa depends on the reason for entering South Africa.
Types of Temporary Residence Visas
South Africa offers several types of temporary residence visas, each designed to accommodate different needs:
- Visitor’s Visa (more than 90 days) – For those who wish to visit for personal reasons, tourism, or other temporary activities exceeding 90 days.
- Study Visa – Issued to foreign students enrolled in recognized South African educational institutions.
- Business Visa – For entrepreneurs or individuals establishing or managing a business in South Africa.
- Medical Treatment Visa – For foreigners seeking long-term medical treatment (more than 90 days) in South Africa.
- Relative’s Visa – For individuals joining close family members (spouses, children, parents) who are South African citizens or permanent residents.
- Work Visas:
- General Work Visa: For foreigners with valid job offers.
- Critical Skills Visa: For individuals with specialized skills that are in demand in South Africa.
- Intra-company Transfer Visa: For employees being transferred to South Africa by their existing employer.
- Retired Person Visa – For individuals wishing to retire in South Africa.
- Exchange Visa – For those participating in cultural or educational exchange programs.
How to Apply for a Temporary Residence Visa
To apply for a temporary residence visa, follow these steps:
- Select Your Visa Type: Choose the visa type that suits your purpose for staying in South Africa.
- Schedule an Appointment with an Embassy or Consulate: Make an appointment with the nearest South African embassy, consulate, or visa application center. Depending on your country, you may need to apply via a neighboring country’s South African representation.
- Prepare Your Documents: Gather all required documents for your visa category. This includes items like your passport, photos, proof of purpose (e.g., work contract, acceptance letter), proof of financial means, and any other specific documents depending on the visa type.
- Submit Your Application: Attend the appointment and submit the documents. You may be asked to undergo an interview or provide biometric information (fingerprints, photos). After submitting, you will need to wait for the visa to be processed.
Once you enter South Africa with the visa, you must apply for a Temporary Residence Permit at the Department of Home Affairs in South Africa.
Required Documents for a Temporary Residence Visa
The documents required will vary depending on the type of visa you are applying for. Below are general documents you will need:
- Completed Application Form (DHA-1738): Fill out the required form.
- Passport: Must be valid for at least 30 days after the intended end of your visit and have at least two blank pages.
- Recent Passport-sized Photograph: A photograph that meets the official guidelines.
- Proof of Medical Insurance or Vaccination: If applicable, like the Yellow Fever Vaccine for travelers from certain areas.
- Police Clearance: A certificate from each country where you have lived for 12 months or more since age 18.
- Medical and Radiology Reports: Not older than 6 months; however, radiology reports are not required for pregnant women or children under 12 years old.
- Proof of Financial Means: Documents that show you have sufficient funds to support yourself during your stay, such as bank statements or proof of income.
- Civil Status Documents: For example, a marriage or birth certificate if applicable.
- Proof of Purpose: This could be a work contract for a work visa, an acceptance letter for a study visa, or medical reports for a medical visa.
Additional Supporting Documents Based on Visa Type
Some visa categories require additional documents:
- Study Visa:
- Official acceptance letter from the educational institution.
- Proof of accommodation.
- Proof of financial means to cover tuition fees and living expenses.
- Business Visa:
- Proof of financial investment (usually R2.5 million).
- Certified business plan and documentation of business registration.
- Proof of planned employment creation for South African citizens.
- Medical Treatment Visa:
- A letter from the medical institution in South Africa confirming treatment details, costs, and availability.
- Proof of financial means to cover medical costs.
- Work Visa:
- Employment contract signed by both employer and employee.
- Proof that efforts were made to find a local candidate.
- Proof of qualifications and registration with a relevant professional body (if applicable).
- Relative’s Visa:
- Proof of relationship to a South African citizen or resident (e.g., birth or marriage certificate).
- Proof of financial means from the relative sponsoring the applicant.
How Much Does a Temporary Residence Visa Cost?
The cost for a temporary residence visa varies depending on the type of visa:
| Type of Permit | Fee in ZAR | Fee in USD (Approx.) |
|---|---|---|
| General Work Permit | 1,520 ZAR | $88 |
| Relatives Visa (Adult Child) | 425 ZAR | $24 |
| Retired Persons Visa | 425 ZAR | $24 |
| Business Visa | 1,520 ZAR | $88 |
| Study Visa | 425 ZAR | $24 |
Please note that visa fees are non-refundable, even in case of visa denial.
Where Can I Apply for a Temporary Residence Visa?
You must apply for a temporary residence visa in person at a South African diplomatic mission (embassy or consulate) in your home country. If there is no diplomatic representation in your country, you may need to apply in a neighboring country.
Duration of Temporary Residence Visas
The validity period of a temporary residence visa depends on the type:
| Type of Visa | Validity Period |
|---|---|
| Business Visa | 12 months to passport expiry date |
| Work Visa | Up to 2 years (depending on job offer) |
| Study Visa | Duration of the course |
| Retired Person Visa | Up to 4 years |
| Relative’s Visa | Typically 2-4 years |
What Happens When a Temporary Residency Visa Expires?
If your temporary residency visa is nearing its expiration date, you are eligible to apply for a renewal or extension if you continue to meet the visa’s conditions. Alternatively, you may also apply for permanent residency after meeting the necessary requirements (usually five years of continuous residence).
Can I Apply for a Change of Status on a Temporary Residence Visa?
If you entered South Africa on a visitor’s visa, you cannot change your status to another visa while in the country. You must return to your home country to apply for a different visa (e.g., from a visitor’s visa to a work or study visa). However, if you hold a valid temporary residence visa, you may apply for a status change (e.g., from a student to a work visa) after fulfilling certain conditions.
For more information, contact the Department of Home Affairs in South Africa or the nearest South African embassy.