26 Aug Retire in SA: Apply Before the Rules Tighten

South Africa’s Retired Person Visa is currently considered one of the most accessible ways for foreign nationals seeking a legal pathway to relocate to the country. However, prospective applicants should be aware that this window is beginning to close, with stricter requirements for this visa category expected to be implemented soon.

As of yet, there is no set age limit in order to qualify for a Retired Person Visa. The main requirements for this visa are that the applicant should be financially independent and have a prescribed minimum monthly income.

However, this is all set to change following the Cabinet’s approval of the Revised White Paper on Citizenship, Immigration, and Refugee Protection.

Once these changes are implemented, applicants are likely to face a minimum age requirement of 55 years of age, which is in line with several other countries, as well as prove a higher monthly income which does not rely on a salary.

Applicants who are younger than the prescribed 55 years will have to apply for a waiver or a different category altogether, such as the proposed financially independent visa.

These changes have been proposed to be implemented as law later on in the year. However, it is worth noting that all future changes will not apply retrospectively. Applicants who have secured their status under the current system will continue to retain the conditions and benefits granted at the time of approval.

Luckily, foreigners who are younger than 55 years who want to relocate to South Africa still have a golden, but closing, window of opportunity to apply for a Retired Person Visa under the current, more accessible criteria.

Retirement Visa: Current Requirements

Criteria:

• A monthly income of at least R37,000. This income may originate from a pension, irrevocable annuity or retirement account.
• South Africa has no set age limit as per law to apply for a Retired Person Visa. However, some South African embassies based abroad enforce age restrictions when taking in applications, which can require additional legal assistance from the get-go.
• This is a four-year multiple-entry visa. A first-time retirement visa application will need to be made from the country of citizenship or residency and cannot be made from within South Africa if you enter as a tourist.

Forms & Documentation:

• Passport (that’s still valid at least 30 days after intended departure from SA and with two blank pages for endorsement)
• Passport copies of the personal data page
• A completed DHA-1738 form
• Biometric photograph (not older than 6 months)
• Original Police Clearance Certificate (from all countries where the applicant has lived for 12 months or more in the last 5 years)
• Proof of financial requirement (R37,000 per month)
• Original bank statements (past 3 months and stamped by bank)
• Marriage certificate, divorce decree, or death certificate (if applicable)
• Yellow fever vaccination certificate (if applicable)

Moving to a new country can be a daunting and tiresome task, especially when starting a new life phase such as retirement. Whether you plan on staying in South Africa temporarily or on a permanent basis, June Luna Immigration Attorneys will be able to expertly assist you through each step of the process. Our team of immigration professionals will help you receive a timely outcome on your application with the best chances of a favourable outcome.

CONTACT US today for more information or to book a consultation.