
21 Jan What Are the Spousal Visa Requirements in South Africa?
Are you tired of leaving the country every three months so you can get a new tourist visa on arrival, going to VFS Global every few months to undergo the arduous process of visa extension, and spending copious amounts of money on visa runs and aeroplane tickets? Apply for a spousal visa with June Luna Immigration Attorneys, one of South Africa’s best immigration law firms — stop facing common immigration challenges.
Our attorneys have extensive experience helping foreign nationals get approved for spousal visas, ensuring they can stay with their spouses for more than a few months at a time. No more needless trips overseas, reapplying for a visitor’s visa, and not seeing your partner for weeks at a time.
You’ll finally be able to build a life together in South Africa. Your visa will be valid for three years and can be extended. After you’ve been married for at least five years, you’ll be able to apply for permanent residency.
This post discusses the various requirements to attain a spousal visa: the documents you’ll need, eligibility criteria, how long the visa will last, an overview of the process, and the outcomes you can expect.
Eligibility Criteria for Spousal Visa
Did you know? You don’t have to be married to get a spousal visa in South Africa. The law also recognises life partnerships as an alternative to marriage. After two years of partnership, you can apply for temporary residence. After five years of partnership, you’re eligible for permanent residence.
Documents Needed for a Spousal Visa
You’ll need the following documents when applying for a spousal visa. The documents are the same regarding heterosexual and homosexual relationships, as homosexual relationships are recognised under South African law.
- A personal statement stating your purpose and duration of your stay here.
- Indication from your South African spouse regarding their source of income.
- A signed cover letter from the South African spouse confirming financial support and accommodation, along with a certified copy of the spouse’s passport or South African visa (the certified copy should not be older than 3 months).
- Proof of the South African spouse’s financial assurance (currently R8,500 per person per month). They’ll have to submit certified bank statements that are no older than seven days and must be stamped or verified by their bank.
- If applicable, a translated copy from a sworn translator of your unabridged marriage certificate.
- An original relationship affidavit (DHA –Form 12) that’s been completed and certified by a commissioner of oaths. You must also submit a notarial agreement.
- An affidavit outlining your relationship to your South African spouse including documentation proving cohabitation, shared financial responsibilities, and details of any children in the relationship.
- If you have children together, you may need to submit a paternity test and unabridged birth certificates.
- A notarial agreement signed by both parties stating that your relationship has lasted for two (or five, depending on the application) years before the date of application and that no other person is involved in your relationship – the relationship must be monogamous.
The application requirements differ by whether your South African spouse is a citizen or permanent residence holder. Reach out to June Luna Immigration Attorneys for more information on this.
Contact June Luna Immigration Attorneys
We’re some of the country’s most established immigration attorneys. For years, we’ve helped South Africans and their spouses achieve permanent and temporary residence through spousal visas.
Our specialists will ensure you gather all relevant documents and that your application isn’t rejected. We’ll also conduct follow-ups on your behalf during the application, ensuring your application is reviewed and approved as soon as possible. For more information, contact June Luna Immigration Attorneys. We’re glad to be of service!