How To Become A Permanent Resident In South Africa
What paperwork is required to submit an application for permanent residence in South Africa?
You must additionally supply the following supporting material in addition to filling out and submitting Form BI-947:
a complete collection of prints.
a marriage certificate or, if relevant, documentation of a spouse relationship.
a divorce judgment or, if appropriate, evidence of a formal separation.
If necessary, evidence of custody of a child
How long does it take to become a resident of South Africa permanently?
A Permanent Residence application typically takes 4 to 8 months to process from the date of filing, depending on the type of submission. You may ask for your application for a Permanent Resident Permit to be concluded and finalized if it has been ongoing for a considerable amount of time.
Who is eligible for a South African permanent residency permit?
If you and your spouse have been in South Africa on the basis of your work permit for at least five years, you are eligible for a direct permanent residence permit. Applicants may also be dependents of South African nationals or holders of permanent residency visas.
How can I get a visa for indefinite residence?
The Department of Home Affairs issues visas with the option of permanent residence. The department may provide information on how to submit an application for a permanent residence permit.
Direct residents are granted residence permits:
foreign nationals with spouses, dependent children of South African residents, or holders of permanent residence permits who have lived in South Africa on the basis of their work permits for at least five years.
Additionally, you may submit an application for residency for life if you:
Possess a permanent job offer in South Africa, have exceptional skills and qualifications, want to start a business there, qualify for refugee status under Section 27(c) of the Refugees Act, qualify for retirement, are financially independent, or are related to a South African citizen or permanent resident permit holder (by blood or adoption).
What is the cost of acquiring permanent residency in South Africa?
Currently, a candidate can effectively qualify for permanent residency in South Africa provided they can demonstrate that they have a “minimum net worth of R7,5 million” and the money to pay the application fee of R75 000. No comparable category exists for obtaining temporary residency based on this in South Africa.
What are the advantages of a South African permanent residence?
With the exception of casting a ballot in local elections, permanent residency confers the right to live and work in South Africa without limitations. This right includes the freedom to work, engage in business, own property, study, and participate in all other activities that South African citizens are entitled to.
How long is permanent residency in South Africa?
Permanent residency has no time limit and is valid forever. You won’t need to continue paying for your stay in South Africa! All you need to do to keep your PR status is make sure you don’t go more than three years at a time without returning to South Africa.
Can I lose my right to live permanently in South Africa?
It’s crucial to keep in mind that permanent residency status is given with the intention of residing permanently in South Africa. The Department of Home Affairs may revoke your status if you depart South Africa for a minimum of three years after receiving it.
