Seeking permanent residence in South Africa opens doors to a vibrant and diverse lifestyle, where rich cultural experiences intertwine with breathtaking landscapes. Embracing the warmth of the Rainbow Nation, obtaining permanent residency offers a gateway to a life filled with opportunity and exploration.
Is permanent residence consider citizenship in South Africa?
The typical route to citizenship for a foreigner often begins with acquiring temporary residency in South Africa, be it through a student or work visa. Once the designated residency period or other criteria for direct or indirect residency is fulfilled, individuals can apply for permanent residency. It is only after maintaining five years of permanent residency and meeting additional requirements that one becomes eligible to apply for citizenship.
Requirements for South Africa permanent residence
When applying for permanent residence in South Africa, ensure you submit the following documents:
BI-947 Application form: Completed and signed in black ink without alterations.
Valid passport: Must be valid for at least three months beyond your intended departure.
Full set of fingerprints: Biometric data required for the residence permit.
Marriage certificate/proof of spousal relationship: Include if applicable, along with divorce or legal separation proof.
Valid temporary residence permit: Mandatory if already in South Africa.
Application fee: Include the original bank payment/electronic fund transfer receipt for each applicant.
Passport photograph: Recent photos with names on the reverse side for applicants aged one year or older.
Police clearance certificate: Provide from all countries lived in since age 18.
Additional documents for specific permanent residency basis:
BI-947 Application form: Completed and signed in black ink without alterations.
Valid passport: Must be valid for at least three months beyond your intended departure.
Full set of fingerprints: Biometric data required for the residence permit.
Marriage certificate/proof of spousal relationship: Include if applicable, along with divorce or legal separation proof.
Valid temporary residence permit: Mandatory if already in South Africa.
Application fee: Include the original bank payment/electronic fund transfer receipt for each applicant.
Passport photograph: Recent photos with names on the reverse side for applicants aged one year or older.
Police clearance certificate: Provide from all countries lived in since age 18.
Additional documents for specific permanent residency basis:
- Proof of refugee status.
- Proof of investment in South Africa.
- Proof of establishing or investing in a business in South Africa.
- Proof of holding a permanent job in South Africa.
- Proof of sufficient financial means.
- Proof of custody (if applicable).
- Death certificate of a late spouse (if applicable).
- Consent of parents (for minors).
- Proof of judicial adoption (if applicable).
- Written consent for minor applicants.
New permanent residence rules in South Africa
Before seeking permanent residency, individuals must present compelling reasons to avoid being classified as a prohibited or undesirable person. Those eligible for a direct permanent residence permit in South Africa include individuals and their spouses who have resided in the country based on a work permit for at least five years. Additionally, dependents of South African citizens or permanent residence permit holders are eligible to apply.
Permanent residency may also be granted to foreigners under various conditions:
Permanent residency may also be granted to foreigners under various conditions:
- Possession of a permanent job offer in South Africa.
- Demonstration of exceptional skills and qualifications.
- Intent to establish a business in South Africa.
- Meeting the criteria for refugee status according to Section 27(c) of the Refugees Act.
- Qualification as retired individuals.
- Financial independence.
- Relationship as biological or judicially adopted relatives of a South African citizen or permanent residence permit holder.
South Africa visa requirements for US permanent residents
US citizens currently do not require a visa for short-term trips or business visits to South Africa, benefiting from a visa exemption scheme. However, due to COVID-19 restrictions, the United States has been temporarily removed from the visa-free list, and American citizens planning to travel to South Africa are advised to consult a South African embassy or consulate.
Under the existing visa-exemption program, US citizens can stay in South Africa for up to 90 days without a visa. If planning to extend their stay or establish long-term residency, Americans must obtain a long-stay permit by contacting a South African embassy or consulate.
While an upcoming South Africa eVisa system is in development, currently unavailable to US citizens, it is expected to streamline the application process for short-term tourism and business visits. The eVisa will be accessible online, offering convenience and efficiency, allowing applicants to complete the process from any location with an internet connection.
The application steps for the future South Africa eVisa involve providing personal details, answering health and security questions, submitting travel plans, uploading necessary documents, and paying the processing fee online. Required documents include a valid passport, proof of sufficient funds, a return or onward ticket, and a yellow fever vaccination certificate if applicable.
Once approved, the South Africa eVisa will be linked to the applicant's US passport, and travelers must use the same passport for entry. In case of passport changes, a new eVisa application is necessary. If online approval is not possible, applicants can contact the nearest South African embassy or consulate for assistance.
Under the existing visa-exemption program, US citizens can stay in South Africa for up to 90 days without a visa. If planning to extend their stay or establish long-term residency, Americans must obtain a long-stay permit by contacting a South African embassy or consulate.
While an upcoming South Africa eVisa system is in development, currently unavailable to US citizens, it is expected to streamline the application process for short-term tourism and business visits. The eVisa will be accessible online, offering convenience and efficiency, allowing applicants to complete the process from any location with an internet connection.
The application steps for the future South Africa eVisa involve providing personal details, answering health and security questions, submitting travel plans, uploading necessary documents, and paying the processing fee online. Required documents include a valid passport, proof of sufficient funds, a return or onward ticket, and a yellow fever vaccination certificate if applicable.
Once approved, the South Africa eVisa will be linked to the applicant's US passport, and travelers must use the same passport for entry. In case of passport changes, a new eVisa application is necessary. If online approval is not possible, applicants can contact the nearest South African embassy or consulate for assistance.
How to apply for permanent residence in South Africa?
To apply for permanent residency, individuals must submit their documentation to the Department of Home Affairs, accompanied by supporting papers such as a copy of their passport, a valid visa, proof of funds, and evidence of their qualifications or skills. The authorities give successful applicants a permanent residence certificate. It is valid for five years. You provide evidence of continued residence in South Africa when you need to renew it.
Depending on the type of permanent residency permit, individuals may need to have an address in South Africa and pay relevant taxes to maintain their status. However, permanent residency also grants the right to travel freely in and out of South Africa without the need for a visa, and for most, they need only enter the country at least once every 3 years.
Overall, obtaining permanent residency in South Africa offers many advantages for those looking to establish a life in the country and take advantage of its various opportunities.
Depending on the type of permanent residency permit, individuals may need to have an address in South Africa and pay relevant taxes to maintain their status. However, permanent residency also grants the right to travel freely in and out of South Africa without the need for a visa, and for most, they need only enter the country at least once every 3 years.
Overall, obtaining permanent residency in South Africa offers many advantages for those looking to establish a life in the country and take advantage of its various opportunities.
Permanent residence permit in South Africa: fee and processing time
The processing time for a Permanent Residence application varies between 4 to 8 months, depending on the type of submission. Upon approval, successful applicants are required to pay a fee of ZAR 120,000 (equivalent to approximately USD 7,000).
Can I lose my permanent resident status in South Africa?
Permanent residency may be forfeited if the holder exceeds an absence from the Republic for a period longer than three years, fails to comply with the conditions specified on their permanent residency permit, or engages in a schedule 5 or 6 offense.
