Visas for South Africa

Expats planning to stay in South Africa for more than three months will need a temporary residence visa. This is sorted into different categories depending on what the applicant intends to do, such as moving to study, work, start their own business or receive medical treatment. Each type of temporary resident visa has its own specified period of validity. Work visas, for instance, are valid for up to a maximum of five years, while medical treatment visas are issued for six months at a time and are eligible for extension.

Permanent residence permits for South Africa

Expats who want to stay long-term will need a permanent residence permit for South Africa. The application process varies according to what they want to do in the country. The first thing to determine is which category the application falls under.

Direct residence permits are applied for on the basis of having been in the country on a work visa for the past five years. Residency-on-other-grounds permits cover other reasons for permanent residency, such as retiring, starting a business or moving to the country to join a family member or spouse.

Though some permanent residence applications can be made on a standalone basis in theory, most expats get a temporary residence visa first. This is often because permanent residence applications can take a long time to be processed and granted.

Benefits of permanent residency in South Africa

One of the most obvious benefits of a permanent residence permit is the fact that it is valid for life if the holder abides by the permit's conditions. All other permits in South Africa require renewal or re-application at some point. Permanent residents can also sponsor qualifying relatives.

Permanent residence applications

Permanent residence applications can be made either in South Africa or in the applicant's country of origin, but expats should get advice from an immigration agent. The process takes several months and might cause applicants in South Africa to overstay on their current visas.

Using a registered immigration practitioner

Applicants can apply directly to a South African mission or through a South African visa application centre. But certain offices might not be easily accessible, and getting advice is difficult. The process is often confusing, time-consuming and frustrating – South African Home Affairs is notorious for disorganisation and shifting standards.

Applications aren't points-based but are assessed on a case-by-case basis. This policy creates a large grey area that's often best navigated with the knowledge that an immigration practitioner provides.

*Visa regulations are subject to change at short notice, and expats should contact their respective embassy or consulate for the latest details.