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Spouse or Life Partner Visa

Spouses or Life Partners of South African Citizens or Permanent Residence Holders Permanent Residence Applications

Visa applicants who have been the spouse or life partner of a citizen or permanent resident for more than 5 years may apply for permanent residence. It is essential that substantial evidence can be given for the entire time of the relationship.

Further useful information:

• After permanent residence has been obtained the foreigner needs to submit proof that the relationship still exists within 2 years upon the issuance of the permit. If the applicant fails to do so the permanent residence permit will be revoked
• After a further 3 years the permanent residence permit cannot be revoked on the terms of a break-up of the marriage/relationship
• The Department of Home Affairs reserves the right to monitor whether the marriage/ relationship still exists
• Should the visa applicant be the holder of a temporary residence permit, the applicant shall apply for permanent residence within 3 months from the date upon which he or she qualifies to do so

Take the free online assessment now to determine your eligibility.

Spouses or Life Partners of South African Citizens or Permanent Residence Holders Temporary Residence Permits

Married couples applying for temporary residence must submit their marriage certificate.
 
Unmarried couples in life partnerships (which means a permanent homosexual or hererosexual relationship) must submit an affadavit signed by both parties, attesting that the spousal relationship is to the exclusion of any other person. In addition to this supplementary proof of cohabitation and shared financial responsibilities must be provided.

Life partners or spouses who wish to work, study or start their own business can be authorised to do so simply on the grounds of their spousal relationship and without meeting any further criteria. It should be noted that the spouse or life partner cannot undertake any such activities until the corresponding endorsement to the life partner / spousal permit has been granted.

Take the free online assessment now to determine your eligibility.