How to Get a Retirement Visa in South Africa

Are you dreaming of retirement in the beautiful rainbow nation? A retirement visa could be the ideal option for you! This visa offers retirees from overseas the opportunity to live in South Africa, the ideal retirement destination, provided they meet specific requirements.

What Is a Retirement Visa?

Foreign nationals who have a retirement visa are permitted to stay in South Africa for an extended period without having the ability to work. It allows retirees to take advantage of everything this nation has to offer, even though it does not grant them the ability to work or launch a business.

What Are the Requirements to Apply for a Retirement Visa?

You would have to meet the following to be eligible:

  •         Age Group: There is no minimum age requirement for a retirement visa in South Africa.
  •         Financial Support: You must prove you have sufficient financial means to cover your living expenses. This can be through a monthly income from a pension, savings or investments.
  • A minimum amount of R37,000 per month is required; alternatively, a net worth equating to R37,000.00 per month in the form of liquid and fixed assets.

Financial Evidence and Minimum Income Requirements

According to the government, you will need to demonstrate that you can support yourself financially while residing in South Africa. This can be achieved by a capital amount in liquid assets that is adequate to support your living expenses or by earning at least R37,000 per month.

If your financial support is not sourced from a pension or salary, you must give proof of savings or investments sufficient to sustain the cost of living in South Africa.

Documents

The following paperwork must be submitted with your Retirement Visa application:

  •         Proof of financial support: Bank statements, pension fund statements or any documentation showing your monthly income or liquid assets.
  •         Police clearance certificate: A certificate from your country of birth showing that you have no criminal record.
  •         Passport: A passport that is valid for at least 30 days after your planned stay in South Africa.

You can apply at the South African embassy or consulate in your home country after you have all your paperwork. If the application is a renewal of a current retirement visa, you can process the application through VFS Global from within South Africa.

What to Expect from the Application and Approval Process

  •         Submit your application: You must submit a completed application form with the supporting documents.
  •         Processing time: The processing can vary from a few weeks to a few months, depending on the volume of applications and the capacity of the consulate.
  •         Visa approval: If you meet all the requirements, you will receive a Retirement Visa valid for up to 4 years. At the end of this period, you can consider options for permanent residency or seek an extension.

Why Retire in South Africa?

South Africa has become a popular destination for retirees. It’s easy to see why:

  •         Affordable cost of living: Compared to many Western countries, South Africa offers a relatively low cost of living.
  •         Beautiful landscapes: From beaches to mountains and safari parks, South Africa offers some of the world’s most breathtaking scenery.
  •         Vibrant culture: The country has a rich cultural heritage with a mix of traditions, food, and activities.
  •         An expat community: South Africa has a growing expat community, which makes it easy to find support and make new friends.

Provided you have the necessary funds and documentation, you can enjoy your golden years in South Africa with a retirement visa. Living in one of the world’s most beautiful and affordable countries is an amazing opportunity, so long as you meet the entry standards.

Enjoy your golden years in South Africa with a retirement visa.

June Luna Immigration Attorneys can assist you with the application process or if you have questions regarding your eligibility. For a seamless transfer to living in South Africa to an effortless expedition, we can guide you through every step of the process.

Let us help you obtain a retirement visa – contact us today.