Visa information

Overview

General work Visas are valid for the duration of the contract of employment or a period not exceeding 5 years. A general work permit shall lapse if within 6 months of issuance and if every year thereafter the holder fails to submit satisfactory proof to the Director-General that he/she is still employed along with proof of the terms and conditions of the job, and the job description

Documents Required

• Duly completed online form. Handwritten forms will not be accepted by Department of Home Affairs.
• Valid passport which expires in no less than 30 days after expiry of the intended date of departure from the Republic
• The application is being submitted in person, no less than 60 days prior to the expiry date of the applicant’s visa and if the visa was issued for less than 30 days, not later than seven working days before the expiry of the visa.
• A yellow fever vaccination certificate if that person travelled or intends travelling from or transiting through a yellow fever endemic area: (Provided that the certificate shall not be required where that person travelled or intends travelling in direct transit through such area)
• Original Police clearance certificate issued by the police or security authority in each country where the relevant applicant resided for 12 months or longer after attaining the age of 18 years except for South Africa, in respect of criminal records or the character of that applicant, which certificate shall not be older than six months at the time of its submission: (Provided that the certificate shall not be required from a foreign country in the case of renewal or extension of a visa)
• A police clearance certificate shall only be required from the police or security authority in each country where the applicant, after having attained the age of 18 years, has resided for 12 months or longer during the five years immediately preceding the date of application
• Biometric enrolment fee applicable: Yes
• A medical report.
• Marriage certificate or in the case of a foreign spousal relationship, proof of official recognition thereof issued by the authorities of the foreign country of the applicant (where applicable).
• The affidavit where a spousal relationship to a South African citizen or resident is applicable, as well as documentation proving cohabitation and the extent to which the related financial responsibilities are shared by the parties and setting out the particulars of children in the spousal relationship.
• Divorce decree, where applicable.
• Court order granting full or specific parental responsibilities and rights, where applicable.
• Death certificate, in respect of late spouse, where applicable.
• Written consent from both parents and full parental responsibilities, where applicable.
• Proof of adoption where applicable.
• Legal separation order, where applicable.
• A written undertaking by the employer accepting responsibility for the costs related to the deportation of the applicant and his or her dependent family members, should it become necessary.
• A written undertaking by the employer to ensure that the passport of his or her employee is valid at all times for the duration of his or her employment
• A certificate by the Department of Labour confirming that-

1. despite diligent search, the prospective employer has been unable to find a suitable citizen or permanent resident with qualifications or skills and experience equivalent to those of the applicant;
2. the applicant has qualifications or proven skills and experience in line with the job offer;
3. the salary and benefits of the applicant are not inferior to the average salary and benefits of citizens or employees occupying similar positions in the Republic;
4. a contract of employment stipulating the conditions of employment and signed by both the employer and the applicant in line with the labour standards in the Republic and is made conditional upon the general work visa being approved;
• Proof of qualifications evaluated by SAQA (South African qualifications authority) and translated by a sworn
• translator into one of the official languages of the Republic; and
• Full particulars of the employer, including, where applicable, proof of registration of the business with the Commission on Intellectual Property and Companies (CIPC).
• An undertaking by the employer to inform the Director-General; should the applicant not comply with the provisions of the Act, or conditions of the visa.
• An undertaking by the employer to inform the Director-General upon the employee no longer being in the employ of such employer or when he or she is employed in a different capacity or role.
• Proof of payment of the applicable feeKindly ensure that all copies of original documents are certified accordingly

• Duly completed online form. Handwritten forms will not be accepted by Department of Home Affairs.
• Valid passport which expires in no less than 30 days after expiry of the intended date of departure from the Republic
• The application is being submitted in person, no less than 60 days prior to the expiry date of the applicant’s visa and if the visa was issued for less than 30 days, not later than seven working days before the expiry of the visa.
• A yellow fever vaccination certificate if that person travelled or intends travelling from or transiting through a yellow fever endemic area: (Provided that the certificate shall not be required where that person travelled or intends travelling in direct transit through such area)
• Original Police clearance certificate issued by the police or security authority in each country where the relevant applicant resided for 12 months or longer after attaining the age of 18 years except for South Africa, in respect of criminal records or the character of that applicant, which certificate shall not be older than six months at the time of its submission: (Provided that the certificate shall not be required from a foreign country in the case of renewal or extension of a visa)
• A police clearance certificate shall only be required from the police or security authority in each country where the applicant, after having attained the age of 18 years, has resided for 12 months or longer during the five years immediately preceding the date of application
• Biometric enrolment fee applicable: Yes
• A medical report.
• A radiological report. Provided that a radiological report shall not be required in respect of children under the age of 12 years or pregnant women;
• Marriage certificate or in the case of a foreign spousal relationship, proof of official recognition thereof issued by the authorities of the foreign country of the applicant (where applicable).
• The affidavit where a spousal relationship to a South African citizen or resident is applicable, as well as documentation proving cohabitation and the extent to which the related financial responsibilities are shared by the parties and setting out the particulars of children in the spousal relationship.
• Divorce decree, where applicable.
• Court order granting full or specific parental responsibilities and rights, where applicable.
• Death certificate, in respect of late spouse, where applicable.
• Written consent from both parents and full parental responsibilities, where applicable.
• Proof of adoption where applicable.
• Legal separation order, where applicable.
• A written undertaking by the employer accepting responsibility for the costs related to the deportation of the applicant and his or her dependent family members, should it become necessary.
• A written undertaking by the employer to ensure that the passport of his or her employee is valid at all times for the duration of his or her employment
• A certificate by the Department of Labour confirming that-

1. The applicant continues to be employed in line with the labour standards;
2. A contract of employment stipulating the conditions of employment and signed by both the employer and the applicant; and
3. Full particulars of the employer, including, where applicable, proof of registration of the business with the Commission on Intellectual Property and Companies (CIPC).
• An undertaking by the employer to inform the Director-General; should the applicant not comply with the Act, or is no longer in the employ of such employer, or is employed in a different capacity or role.
• If required by law, proof of registration with the professional body, council or board recognised by SAQA in terms of section 13(1)(1) of the National Qualifications Framework Act
• Proof of payment of the applicable fee

Processing Time

Applications are assessed individually and time frames may vary, therefore you are kindly requested to wait until a decision on your application is taken and is ready for collection, as VFS Global cannot control or influence the processing times in any way.

You can track your application online on VFS Global website to determine status of your application.

Visa fees

All fees are inclusive of VAT and to be paid in South African Rand. Above listed fees are non-refundable once the application is received by VFS Global and Department of Home Affairs.

Once all supporting documentation is available as per the documentary checklist kindly proceed to complete the online application form.

You will be required to pre-pay a minimum amount of R1550 in order to secure and schedule your appointment online.

Payment to secure your online appointment can be made in three methods:

• Online payment via Debit/Credit card through the secure online portal
• Pre-payment at Standard Bank by downloading and completing the online generated bank receipt and depositing the cash into the nearest Standard Bank
• EFT payment through the secure online portal

Note- When selecting the pre-payment option, after payment has been done you are required to visit your online application form after 3 working days to proceed to schedule your appointment.

DHA payments and Value addued services can be paid at the Visa Application Centre if not done before appointment scheduling.

Overview

A corporate permit allows a corporate entity (e.g. a mine group, farmer, etc.) to employ a pre-determined number of skilled/semi-skilled/unskilled workers. There is no fixed validity period for such permits as the validity period is determined and stipulated by the corporate entity upon application. A corporate visa is issued for a period not exceeding three years. Applications must be made at a Visa & Permit Facilitation Centre close to applicant’s residence.

Documents Required

• Duly completed online form. Handwritten forms will not be accepted by Department of Home Affairs.
• proof of the need to employ the requested number of foreigners
• a certificate by the Department of Labour confirming:
1. that despite diligent search, the corporate applicant was unable to find suitable citizens or permanent residents to occupy the position available in the corporate entity;
2. the job description and proposed remuneration in respect of each foreigner;
3. that the salary and benefits of any foreigner employed by the corporate applicant shall not be inferior to the average salary and benefits of citizens or permanent residents occupying similar positions in the Republic (Note: An acknowledgement letter from DoL confirming that this information has been sent to DHA electronically may also be accepted)
• proof of registration of the corporation with South African Revenue Service
• proof of registration of the corporation with Unemployment Insurance Fund
• proof of registration of the corporation with Compensation Fund for Occupational Injuries and Diseases
• proof of registration of the corporation with Companies and Intellectual Properties Commission (CIPC), where legally required
• an undertaking by the employer to inform the Director-General should any foreign employee not comply with the provisions of the Act or visa conditions or is no longer in the employ of such employer or is employed in a different capacity or role; and
• a written undertaking by the corporate applicant to pay the deportation costs of any foreign employee accepting responsibility for the return costs related to the deportation of the foreign employee, should it be necessary.
• proof that at least 60% of the total staff complement that are employed in the operations of the business are citizens or permanent residents employed permanently in various positions.
• An undertaking by the corporate applicant giving assurance that:
1. the passport of the foreigner shall be valid at all times;
2. the foreigner shall be employed by the corporate applicant to conduct work for the corporate applicant only in the specific position for which the visa has been issued;
3. such foreigner departs from the Republic upon completion of his or her contract of employment;
4. any foreigner employed in terms of the corporate visa at all times complies with the-
1. provisions of the Act; and
2. terms and conditions of the corporate visa and of the corporate work certificate;
3. the Director-General is immediately notified if there is reason to believe that the foreigner is no longer in compliance with the provisions of the Act; and
4. the financial guarantees by the corporate applicant to defray deportation and other costs should the corporate visa be withdrawn, or certain foreigners fail to leave the Republic when no longer subject to the corporate visa, are complied with.
• Confirmation by the corporate applicant that the application is not for any business undertaking which is listed as undesirable by the Minister from time to time in the Gazette,
• Proof of payment of the applicable fee

CORPORATE WORKER CERTIFICATE

• Duly completed online form. Handwritten forms will not be accepted by Department of Home Affairs.
• Passport valid for no less than 30 calendar days after expiry of the intended visit.
• A medical report.
• A radiological report.
• Marriage certificate or in the case of a foreign spousal relationship, proof of official recognition thereof issued by the authorities of the foreign country of the applicant (where applicable).
• The affidavit where a spousal relationship to a South African citizen or resident is applicable as well as documentation proving cohabitation and the extent to which the related financial responsibilities are shared by the parties and setting out the particulars of children in the spousal relationship.
• Proof of a union recognised in terms of the Recognition of Customary Marriages Act, 1998 (Act No. 120 of 1998), where applicable.
• Divorce decree, where applicable.
• Proof of court order awarding custody, where applicable.
• Death certificate, in respect of late spouse, where applicable.
• Written consent from both parents and/or sole custody parent, where applicable, with proof of sole custody.
• Proof of legal adoption where applicable.
• Legal separation order, where applicable.
• Original Police clearance certificate issued by the police or security authority in each country where the relevant applicant resided for 12 months or longer after attaining the age of 18 years except for South Africa, in respect of criminal records or the character of that applicant, which certificate shall not be older than six months at the time of its submission: (Provided that the certificate shall not be required from a foreign country in the case of renewal or extension of a visa)
• A police clearance certificate shall only be required from the police or security authority in each country where the applicant, after having attained the age of 18 years, has resided for 12 months or longer during the five years immediately preceding the date of application
• Biometric enrolment fee applicable: Yes
• A yellow fever vaccination certificate if that person travelled or intends travelling from or transiting through a yellow fever endemic area: (Provided that the certificate shall not be required where that person travelled or intends travelling in direct transit through such area)
• Copy of the main corporate visa issued to the prospective employer
• Original Corporate Worker Authorization Certificate (Fully completed)
• a valid employment contract
• a written undertaking by the corporate applicant to ensure that the foreigner departs from the Republic upon termination of his or her contract of employment or accepting responsibility for the return or costs related to the deportation of the foreigner should it become necessary

• proof of qualifications evaluated by SAQA, and translated by a sworn translator into one of the official languages of the Republic, or skills and experience in line with the job offer; and
• a certificate of registration with the professional body, council or board recognised by SAQA in terms of section 13(1)(i) of the National Qualifications Framework Act.
• Proof of payment of the applicable fee

NOTES: A corporate worker may not renew his or her corporate worker certificate or apply for a change of status in the Republic.

Application for a corporate worker certificate in terms of bilateral agreements to employ foreigners partially, mainly or wholly from such foreign countries after issuance of a corporate worker authorization certification in terms of section 21(4)(b) read with regulation 20 and 10

1. A passport valid for no less than 30 days after the expiry date of the intended stay.
2. A full set of fingerprints.
3. A valid employment contract entered into and attested in the worker’s country of origin, for a maximum period of 18 months for Mozambicans and 12 months for workers from Lesotho, Botswana, Swaziland.
4. Corporate Worker Authorization Certificate (Fully completed)
5. Proof of payment, where applicable

Application for a corporate worker certificate for seasonal farm workers after issuance of a corporate worker authorization certificate in terms of section 21(4)(c) read with regulation 20 and 10

1. A passport valid for no less than 30 days after the expiry date of the intended stay.
2. A full set of fingerprints.
3. A valid employment contract, which has been entered into for a maximum period of 12 months.
4. Corporate Worker Authorization Certificate (Fully completed)
5. Proof of payment, where applicable

Processing Time

• Applications are assessed individually and time frames may vary, therefore you are kindly requested to wait until a decision on your application is taken and is ready for collection, as VFS Global cannot control or influence the processing times in any way.

All other categories for permanent residence permit applications will be finalised between 12 months to 24 months from date of submission at VFS.

You can track your application online on VFS Global website to determine status of your application.

Visa fees

All fees are inclusive of VAT and to be paid in South African Rand. Above listed fees are non-refundable once the application is received by VFS Global and Department of Home Affairs.

Once all supporting documentation is available as per the documentary checklist kindly proceed to complete the online application form.

You will be required to pre-pay a minimum amount of R1550 in order to secure and schedule your appointment online.

Payment to secure your online appointment can be made in three methods:

• Online payment via Debit/Credit card through the secure online portal
• Pre-payment at Standard Bank by downloading and completing the online generated bank receipt and depositing the cash into the nearest Standard Bank
• EFT payment through the secure online portal

Note- When selecting the pre-payment option, after payment has been done you are required to visit your online application form after 3 working days to proceed to schedule your appointment.

DHA payments and Value addued services can be paid at the Visa Application Centre if not done before appointment scheduling.

Overview

A treaty permit is an official document that gives foreigners permission to enter South Africa to participate in programmes that have been agreed upon by South Africa and the visitors’ respective countries. A treaty permit can be applied at Visa & Permit Facilitation Centre close to applicant’s residence.

Documents Required

• Duly completed online form. Handwritten forms will not be accepted by Department of Home Affairs.
• Valid passport which expires in no less than 30 days after expiry of the intended date of departure from the Republic
• The application is being submitted in person, no less than 60 days prior to the expiry date of the applicant’s visa and if the visa was issued for less than 30 days, not later than seven working days before the expiry of the visa.
• A yellow fever vaccination certificate if that person travelled or intends travelling from or transiting through a yellow fever endemic area: (Provided that the certificate shall not be required where that person travelled or intends travelling in direct transit through such area)
• Original Police clearance certificate issued by the police or security authority in each country where the relevant applicant resided for 12 months or longer after attaining the age of 18 years except for South Africa, in respect of criminal records or the character of that applicant, which certificate shall not be older than six months at the time of its submission: (Provided that the certificate shall not be required from a foreign country in the case of renewal or extension of a visa)
• A police clearance certificate shall only be required from the police or security authority in each country where the applicant, after having attained the age of 18 years, has resided for 12 months or longer during the five years immediately preceding the date of application
• South African police clearance will be validated upon biometric enrolment at the VFS center effective as of 01 October 2016 at a fee of R175 (Inclusive of Vat) Per Applicant
• Biometric enrolment fee applicable: Yes
• A medical report not older than 6 months
• A radiological report. Provided that a radiological report shall not be required in respect of children under the age of 12 years or pregnant women;
• Marriage certificate or in the case of a foreign spousal relationship, proof of official recognition thereof issued by the authorities of the foreign country of the applicant (where applicable).
• The affidavit where a spousal relationship to a South African citizen or resident is applicable, as well as documentation proving cohabitation and the extent to which the related financial responsibilities are shared by the parties and setting out the particulars of children in the spousal relationship.
• Divorce decree, where applicable.
• Court order granting full or specific parental responsibilities and rights, where applicable.
• Death certificate, in respect of late spouse, where applicable.
• Written consent from both parents and full parental responsibilities, where applicable.
• Proof of adoption where applicable.
• Legal separation order, where applicable.
• A letter from the relevant organ of state which is party to the treaty attesting to-
1. the nature of the programme;
2. participation of the foreigner in the specified programme;
3. the type of activities the foreigner is expected to perform and the duration thereof.
4. Accommodation of the foreigner.
5. Any other relevant details pertaining to the foreigner's stay in the Republic.
• A written undertaking by the sending or receiving organ of state accepting responsibility for the costs related to the deportation of the applicant and his or her dependent family members, should it become necessary.
• Proof of payment of the applicable fee

TREATY VISA RENEWAL

• Duly completed online form. Handwritten forms will not be accepted by Department of Home Affairs.
• Valid passport which expires in no less than 30 days after expiry of the intended date of departure from the Republic
• The application is being submitted in person, no less than 60 days prior to the expiry date of the applicant’s visa and if the visa was issued for less than 30 days, not later than seven working days before the expiry of the visa.
• A yellow fever vaccination certificate if that person travelled or intends travelling from or transiting through a yellow fever endemic area: (Provided that the certificate shall not be required where that person travelled or intends travelling in direct transit through such area)
• Original Police clearance certificate issued by the police or security authority in each country where the relevant applicant resided for 12 months or longer after attaining the age of 18 years except for South Africa, in respect of criminal records or the character of that applicant, which certificate shall not be older than six months at the time of its submission: (Provided that the certificate shall not be required from a foreign country in the case of renewal or extension of a visa)
• A police clearance certificate shall only be required from the police or security authority in each country where the applicant, after having attained the age of 18 years, has resided for 12 months or longer during the five years immediately preceding the date of application
• South African police clearance will be validated upon biometric enrolment at the VFS center effective as of 01 October 2016 at a fee of R175 (Inclusive of Vat) Per Applicant
• Biometric enrolment fee applicable: Yes
• A medical report not older than 6 months
• A radiological report. Provided that a radiological report shall not be required in respect of children under the age of 12 years or pregnant women;
• Marriage certificate or in the case of a foreign spousal relationship, proof of official recognition thereof issued by the authorities of the foreign country of the applicant (where applicable).
• The affidavit where a spousal relationship to a South African citizen or resident is applicable, as well as documentation proving cohabitation and the extent to which the related financial responsibilities are shared by the parties and setting out the particulars of children in the spousal relationship.
• Divorce decree, where applicable.
• Court order granting full or specific parental responsibilities and rights, where applicable.
• Death certificate, in respect of late spouse, where applicable.
• Written consent from both parents and full parental responsibilities, where applicable.
• Proof of adoption where applicable.
• Legal separation order, where applicable.
• A letter from the organ of state which is party to the treaty attesting to-
1. the nature of the programme;
2. continued participation of the foreigner in the programme; and
3. the type of activities the foreigner is expected to continue to perform and the duration thereof.
4. accommodation of the foreigner; and
5. any other relevant details pertaining to the foreigner's stay in the Republic.
• A written undertaking by the sending or receiving organ of state accepting responsibility for the costs related to the deportation of the applicant and his or her dependent family members, should it become necessary.
• Proof of payment of the applicable fee

Processing Time

• Applications are assessed individually and time frames may vary, therefore you are kindly requested to wait until a decision on your application is taken and is ready for collection, as VFS Global cannot control or influence the processing times in any way.

All other categories for permanent residence permit applications will be finalised between 12 months to 24 months from date of submission at VFS.

You can track your application online on VFS Global website to determine status of your application.

Visa fees

All fees are inclusive of VAT and to be paid in South African Rand. Above listed fees are non-refundable once the application is received by VFS Global and Department of Home Affairs.

Once all supporting documentation is available as per the documentary checklist kindly proceed to complete the online application form.

You will be required to pre-pay a minimum amount of R1550 in order to secure and schedule your appointment online.

Payment to secure your online appointment can be made in three methods:

• Online payment via Debit/Credit card through the secure online portal
• Pre-payment at Standard Bank by downloading and completing the online generated bank receipt and depositing the cash into the nearest Standard Bank
• EFT payment through the secure online portal

Note- When selecting the pre-payment option, after payment has been done you are required to visit your online application form after 3 working days to proceed to schedule your appointment.

DHA payments and Value addued services can be paid at the Visa Application Centre if not done before appointment scheduling.

Overview

A Visitors visa section 11(1) (b) (ii) is for voluntary or charitable activities (exceeding 3 months to 3 years)

Documents Required

• Duly completed online form. Handwritten forms will not be accepted by Department of Home Affairs.
• Valid passport which expires in no less than 30 days after expiry of the intended date of departure from the Republic in terms of regulation 9(1)(a)

• The application is being submitted in person, no less than 60 days prior to the expiry date of the applicant’s visa and if the visa was issued for less than 30 days, not later than seven working days before the expiry of the visa.
• A valid return air flight ticket or proof of reservation thereof
• The proof of sufficient available financial resources contemplated in section 11(1)(b) of the Act in the form of a recently bank certified statement, for the last three months.
• A medical report.
• A radiological report. Provided that a radiological report shall not be required in respect of children under the age of 12 years or pregnant women;
• in respect of dependent children accompanying the applicant or joining the applicant in the Republic, proof of parental responsibilities and rights or written consent in the form of an affidavit from the other parent or legal guardian, as the case may be
• in respect of a spouse accompanying the applicant or joining the applicant in the Republic, a copy of a marriage certificate or proof of a relationship as contemplated in regulation 3;
• Statement or documentation detailing the purpose and duration of the visit in terms of regulation 11(1)(a)
• In respect of dependent children accompanying the applicant to or joining the applicant in the Republic, be accompanied by:
1. proof of consent from one or both parents or legal guardian, as the case may be, in the form of a letter or affidavit;
2. where applicable, a copy of a court order granting the applicant parental responsibilities and rights in respect of the child;
3. a letter from the person who is to receive the child in the Republic, containing his or her residential address in the Republic where the child will be residing;
4. a copy of the identity document or valid passport and visa or permanent residence permit of the person who is to receive the child in the Republic; and
5. the contact details of the parents or legal guardian;
• Where the application is for the attendance of an activity or event, include a letter from the organisation under whose control the activity or event will take place, confirming such attendance and whether or not the foreigner will be remunerated, and if remunerated, the amount of the remuneration.
• A yellow fever vaccination certificate if that person travelled or intends travelling from or transiting through a yellow fever endemic area: (Provided that the certificate shall not be required where that person travelled or intends travelling in direct transit through such area)
• The affidavit where a spousal relationship to a South African citizen or resident is applicable as well as documentation proving cohabitation and the extent to which the related financial responsibilities are shared by the parties and setting out the particulars of children in the spousal relationship.
• Proof of a union recognised in terms of the Recognition of Customary Marriages Act, 1998 (Act No. 120 of 1998), where applicable.
• Divorce decree, where applicable.
• Death certificate, in respect of late spouse, where applicable.
• Legal separation order, where applicable.
• Proof of payment of the applicable fee
• Original Police clearance certificate issued by the police or security authority in each country where the relevant applicant resided for 12 months or longer after attaining the age of 18 years except for South Africa, in respect of criminal records or the character of that applicant, which certificate shall not be older than six months at the time of its submission: (Provided that the certificate shall not be required from a foreign country in the case of renewal or extension of a visa)
• A police clearance certificate shall only be required from the police or security authority in each country where the applicant, after having attained the age of 18 years, has resided for 12 months or longer during the five years immediately preceding the date of application
• Biometric enrolment fee applicable: Yes

Notes: No person holding a visitor's visa may apply for a change of status to his or her visa while in the Republic, unless under exceptional circumstances set out below:

1. is in need of emergency lifesaving medical treatment for longer than three months;
2. is an accompanying spouse or child of a holder of the business or work visa, who wishes to apply for a study or work visa;
3. be that the holder's continued stay in the Republic is required for any purpose related to a criminal trial in the Republic: Provided that such application shall be initiated by the relevant Deputy Director of Public Prosecutions and addressed to the Director-General.

Processing Time

• Applications are assessed individually and time frames may vary, therefore you are kindly requested to wait until a decision on your application is taken and is ready for collection, as VFS Global cannot control or influence the processing times in any way.

All other categories for permanent residence permit applications will be finalised between 12 months to 24 months from date of submission at VFS.

You can track your application online on VFS Global website to determine status of your application.

Visa fees

All fees are inclusive of VAT and to be paid in South African Rand. Above listed fees are non-refundable once the application is received by VFS Global and Department of Home Affairs.

Once all supporting documentation is available as per the documentary checklist kindly proceed to complete the online application form.

You will be required to pre-pay a minimum amount of R1550 in order to secure and schedule your appointment online.

Payment to secure your online appointment can be made in three methods:

• Online payment via Debit/Credit card through the secure online portal
• Pre-payment at Standard Bank by downloading and completing the online generated bank receipt and depositing the cash into the nearest Standard Bank
• EFT payment through the secure online portal

Note- When selecting the pre-payment option, after payment has been done you are required to visit your online application form after 3 working days to proceed to schedule your appointment.

DHA payments and Value addued services can be paid at the Visa Application Centre if not done before appointment scheduling.

Overview

Visitors visa section 11(2) with authorization to conduct work (3 months)

Documents Required

• Duly completed online form. Handwritten forms will not be accepted by Department of Home Affairs.
• Valid passport which expires in no less than 30 days after expiry of the intended date of departure from the Republic in terms of regulation 9(1)(a)
• The application is being submitted in person, no less than 60 days prior to the expiry date of the applicant’s visa and if the visa was issued for less than 30 days, not later than seven working days before the expiry of the visa.
• A valid return air flight ticket or proof of reservation thereof
• The proof of sufficient available financial resources contemplated in section 11(1)(b) of the Act in the form of a recently bank certified statement, for the last three months.
• A medical report not older than 6 months
• A radiological report. Provided that a radiological report shall not be required in respect of children under the age of 12 years or pregnant women;
• in respect of dependent children accompanying the applicant or joining the applicant in the Republic, proof of parental responsibilities and rights or written consent in the form of an affidavit from the other parent or legal guardian, as the case may be
• in respect of a spouse accompanying the applicant or joining the applicant in the Republic, a copy of a marriage certificate or proof of a relationship as contemplated in regulation 3;
• Statement or documentation detailing the purpose and duration of the visit in terms of regulation 11(1)(a)
• In respect of dependent children accompanying the applicant to or joining the applicant in the Republic, be accompanied by:
1. proof of consent from one or both parents or legal guardian, as the case may be, in the form of a letter or affidavit;
2. where applicable, a copy of a court order granting the applicant parental responsibilities and rights in respect of the child; a letter from the person who is to receive the child in the Republic, containing his or her residential address in the Republic where the child will be residing;
3. a copy of the identity document or valid passport and visa or permanent residence permit of the person who is to receive the child in the Republic; and
4. the contact details of the parents or legal guardian;
• Where the application is for the attendance of an activity or event, include a letter from the organisation under whose control the activity or event will take place, confirming such attendance and whether or not the foreigner will be remunerated, and if remunerated, the amount of the remuneration.
• A yellow fever vaccination certificate if that person travelled or intends travelling from or transiting through a yellow fever endemic area: (Provided that the certificate shall not be required where that person travelled or intends travelling in direct transit through such area)
• The affidavit where a spousal relationship to a South African citizen or resident is applicable as well as documentation proving cohabitation and the extent to which the related financial responsibilities are shared by the parties and setting out the particulars of children in the spousal relationship.
• Proof of a union recognised in terms of the Recognition of Customary Marriages Act, 1998 (Act No. 120 of 1998), where applicable.
• Divorce decree, where applicable.
• Death certificate, in respect of late spouse, where applicable.
• Legal separation order, where applicable.
• Proof of payment of the applicable fee

Notes: No person holding a visitor's visa may apply for a change of status to his or her visa while in the Republic, unless under exceptional circumstances set out below:

1. is in need of emergency lifesaving medical treatment for longer than three months;
2. is an accompanying spouse or child of a holder of the business or work visa, who wishes to apply for a study or work visa;
3. be that the holder's continued stay in the Republic is required for any purpose related to a criminal trial in the Republic: Provided that such application shall be initiated by the relevant Deputy Director of Public Prosecutions and addressed to the Director-General.

Processing Time

• Applications are assessed individually and time frames may vary, therefore you are kindly requested to wait until a decision on your application is taken and is ready for collection, as VFS Global cannot control or influence the processing times in any way.

All other categories for permanent residence permit applications will be finalised between 12 months to 24 months from date of submission at VFS.

You can track your application online on VFS Global website to determine status of your application.

Visa fees

All fees are inclusive of VAT and to be paid in South African Rand. Above listed fees are non-refundable once the application is received by VFS Global and Department of Home Affairs.

Once all supporting documentation is available as per the documentary checklist kindly proceed to complete the online application form.

You will be required to pre-pay a minimum amount of R1550 in order to secure and schedule your appointment online.

Payment to secure your online appointment can be made in three methods:

• Online payment via Debit/Credit card through the secure online portal
• Pre-payment at Standard Bank by downloading and completing the online generated bank receipt and depositing the cash into the nearest Standard Bank
• EFT payment through the secure online portal

Note- When selecting the pre-payment option, after payment has been done you are required to visit your online application form after 3 working days to proceed to schedule your appointment.

DHA payments and Value addued services can be paid at the Visa Application Centre if not done before appointment scheduling.

Overview

Visitors visa section 11(6) - spouse of a citizen or permanent resident and work

Documents Required

• Duly completed online form. Handwritten forms will not be accepted by Department of Home Affairs.
• Passport copy and current status in the Republic
• Valid passport which expires in no less than 30 days after expiry of the intended date of departure from the Republic in terms of regulation 9(1)(a)
• The application is being submitted in person, no less than 60 days prior to the expiry date of the applicant’s visa and if the visa was issued for less than 30 days, not later than seven working days before the expiry of the visa.
• Original Police clearance certificate issued by the police or security authority in each country where the relevant applicant resided for 12 months or longer after attaining the age of 18 years except for South Africa, in respect of criminal records or the character of that applicant, which certificate shall not be older than six months at the time of its submission: (Provided that the certificate shall not be required from a foreign country in the case of renewal or extension of a visa)
• A police clearance certificate shall only be required from the police or security authority in each country where the applicant, after having attained the age of 18 years, has resided for 12 months or longer during the five years immediately preceding the date of application
• Biometric enrolment fee applicable: Yes
• A medical report - Medical report should not be older than 6 months at the time of submission
• A radiological report. Provided that a radiological report shall not be required in respect of children under the age of 12 years or pregnant women
• Marriage certificate or in the case of a foreign spousal relationship, proof of official recognition thereof issued by the authorities of the foreign country of the applicant (where applicable).
• The affidavit where a spousal relationship to a South African citizen or resident is applicable as well as documentation proving cohabitation and the extent to which the related financial responsibilities are shared by the parties and setting out the particulars of children in the spousal relationship.
• A yellow fever vaccination certificate if that person travelled or intends travelling from or transiting through a yellow fever endemic area: (Provided that the certificate shall not be required where that person travelled or intends travelling in direct transit through such area)
• Full birth certificates in respect of each dependent child
• Proof of a union recognised in terms of the Recognition of Customary Marriages Act, 1998 (Act No. 120 of 1998), where applicable.
• Divorce decree, where applicable.
• Death certificate, in respect of late spouse, where applicable.
• Legal separation order, where applicable.
• Proof of payment of the applicable fee
• An employment offer where applicable
• Proof of registration of the Business with CIPC and proof of registration with SARS, where applicable
• Proof of provisional acceptance form an Educational Institution where applicable
• Support letter and copy of ID of spouse who is a South African citizen or Permanent resident

Notes: No person holding a visitor's visa may apply for a change of status to his or her visa while in the Republic, unless under exceptional circumstances set out below:

1. is in need of emergency lifesaving medical treatment for longer than three months;
2. is an accompanying spouse or child of a holder of the business or work visa, who wishes to apply for a study or work visa;
3. be that the holder's continued stay in the Republic is required for any purpose related to a criminal trial in the Republic: Provided that such application shall be initiated by the relevant Deputy Director of Public Prosecutions and addressed to the Director-General.
4. Visitor's visa section 11(6) in ONLY issued to a Spouse of a South African citizen or permanent residence holder. Such person must apply for a Visitor's visa section 11(6) to allow him or her to work, study or conduct business. It cannot be issued to any other dependent person (brother, sister, mother, father, etc).

VISITORS VISA SECTION 11(6) RENEWAL -SPOUSE OF A CITIZEN OR PERMANENT RESIDENT

• Duly completed online form. Handwritten forms will not be accepted by Department of Home Affairs.
• Passport copy and current status in the Republic
• Valid passport which expires in no less than 30 days after expiry of the intended date of departure from the Republic in terms of regulation 9(1)(a)
• The application is being submitted in person, no less than 60 days prior to the expiry date of the applicant’s visa and if the visa was issued for less than 30 days, not later than seven working days before the expiry of the visa.
• Original Police clearance certificate issued by the police or security authority in each country where the relevant applicant resided for 12 months or longer after attaining the age of 18 years except for South Africa, in respect of criminal records or the character of that applicant, which certificate shall not be older than six months at the time of its submission: (Provided that the certificate shall not be required from a foreign country in the case of renewal or extension of a visa)
• A police clearance certificate shall only be required from the police or security authority in each country where the applicant, after having attained the age of 18 years, has resided for 12 months or longer during the five years immediately preceding the date of application
• Biometric enrolment fee applicable: Yes
• A medical report - Medical report should not be older than 6 months
• Marriage certificate or in the case of a foreign spousal relationship, proof of official recognition thereof issued by the authorities of the foreign country of the applicant (where applicable).
• The affidavit where a spousal relationship to a South African citizen or resident is applicable as well as documentation proving cohabitation and the extent to which the related financial responsibilities are shared by the parties and setting out the particulars of children in the spousal relationship.
• A yellow fever vaccination certificate if that person travelled or intends travelling from or transiting through a yellow fever endemic area: (Provided that the certificate shall not be required where that person travelled or intends travelling in direct transit through such area)
• Full birth certificates in respect of each dependent child
• Proof of a union recognised in terms of the Recognition of Customary Marriages Act, 1998 (Act No. 120 of 1998), where applicable.
• Divorce decree, where applicable.
• Death certificate, in respect of late spouse, where applicable.
• Legal separation order, where applicable.
• Proof of payment of the applicable fee
• An employment offer where applicable
• Proof of registration of the Business with CIPC and proof of registration with SARS, where applicable
• Proof of provisional acceptance form an Educational Institution where applicable
• Support letter and copy of ID of spouse who is a South African citizen or Permanent resident

Notes: No person holding a visitor's visa may apply for a change of status to his or her visa while in the Republic, unless under exceptional circumstances set out below:

5. is in need of emergency lifesaving medical treatment for longer than three months;
6. is an accompanying spouse or child of a holder of the business or work visa, who wishes to apply for a study or work visa;
7. be that the holder's continued stay in the Republic is required for any purpose related to a criminal trial in the Republic: Provided that such application shall be initiated by the relevant Deputy Director of Public Prosecutions and addressed to the Director-General.
8. Visitor's visa section 11(6) in ONLY issued to a Spouse of a South African citizen or permanent residence holder. Such person must apply for a Visitor's visa section 11(6) to allow him or her to work, study or conduct business. It cannot be issued to any other dependent person (brother, sister, mother, father, etc).

Processing Time

• Applications are assessed individually and time frames may vary, therefore you are kindly requested to wait until a decision on your application is taken and is ready for collection, as VFS Global cannot control or influence the processing times in any way.

All other categories for permanent residence permit applications will be finalised between 12 months to 24 months from date of submission at VFS.

You can track your application online on VFS Global website to determine status of your application.

Visa fees

All fees are inclusive of VAT and to be paid in South African Rand. Above listed fees are non-refundable once the application is received by VFS Global and Department of Home Affairs.

Once all supporting documentation is available as per the documentary checklist kindly proceed to complete the online application form.

You will be required to pre-pay a minimum amount of R1550 in order to secure and schedule your appointment online.

Payment to secure your online appointment can be made in three methods:

• Online payment via Debit/Credit card through the secure online portal
• Pre-payment at Standard Bank by downloading and completing the online generated bank receipt and depositing the cash into the nearest Standard Bank
• EFT payment through the secure online portal

Note- When selecting the pre-payment option, after payment has been done you are required to visit your online application form after 3 working days to proceed to schedule your appointment.

DHA payments and Value addued services can be paid at the Visa Application Centre if not done before appointment scheduling.

Overview

Critical Skills Visa applications can be made at any Visa Facilitation Centre in South Africa. Please note that an applicant must ensure he/she falls under the Critical Skills category before applying for a visa or permit.

List of Critical Skills as per Gazette

Note : All current holders of Quota work permit who are required to submit annual reports as a condition of their permit are advised to follow the procedure mentioned below:

• Previously the client would approach the regional office of Home Affairs and submit the required documents as part of their reporting. With the repealing of the Quota work permit this function has not be carried over to VFS. To remedy the situation and to ensure a smoother transition, an email address: quota.reports@dha.gov.za has been set up to allow the clients to continue to comply with the condition of Quota Reporting. Clients will not be required to approach VFS for this service.

• Current holders of Quota work permits are advised to submit CLEAR and READABLE copies of the following documents via the email address mentioned above:

  • Valid contract of employment,
  • Certified Proof of registration with relevant professional body, board or council, where required,
  • Comprehensive CV,
  • Testimonials,
  • Certified Proof of SAQA evaluation certificate of qualifications; and
  • Certified copies of pages in passport reflecting personal details and quota work permit obtained.
• On receipt of the required documents the Department of Home Affairs will issue the client with a compliance letter confirming whether the client continues to comply with the conditions of the work visa issued to them. The compliance letter will be signed and scanned back to the applicant via the email from which the applicant sent the required documents.

This process is only applicable to persons who are due to report. This email will not receive any new applications and should not be used to make enquiries. All enquiries in this regard should be made to (012) 425-3000

Documents Required

• Duly completed online form. Handwritten forms will not be accepted by Department of Home Affairs.
• Passport valid for no less than 30 calendar days after expiry of the intended visit.
• A medical report (not older than 6 months on the day of submission)
• A radiological report (not older than 6 months on the day of submission)
• Marriage certificate or in the case of a foreign spousal relationship, proof of official recognition thereof issued by the authorities of the foreign country of the applicant (where applicable).
• The affidavit where a spousal relationship to a South African citizen or resident is applicable as well as documentation proving cohabitation and the extent to which the related financial responsibilities are shared by the parties and setting out the particulars of children in the spousal relationship.
• Proof of a union recognised in terms of the Recognition of Customary Marriages Act, 1998 (Act No. 120 of 1998), where applicable.
• Divorce decree, where applicable.
• Proof of court order awarding custody, where applicable.
• Death certificate, in respect of late spouse, where applicable.
• Written consent from both parents and/or sole custody parent, where applicable, with proof of sole custody.
• Proof of legal adoption where applicable.
• Legal separation order, where applicable.
• Original Police clearance certificate issued by the police or security authority in each country where the relevant applicant resided for 12 months or longer after attaining the age of 18 years except for South Africa, in respect of criminal records or the character of that applicant, which certificate shall not be older than six months at the time of its submission: (Provided that the certificate shall not be required from a foreign country in the case of renewal or extension of a visa)
• A police clearance certificate shall only be required from the police or security authority in each country where the applicant, after having attained the age of 18 years, has resided for 12 months or longer during the five years immediately preceding the date of application
• Biometric enrolment fee applicable: Yes
• a yellow fever vaccination certificate if that person travelled or intends travelling from or transiting through a yellow fever endemic area: (Provided that the certificate shall not be required where that person travelled or intends travelling in direct transit through such area)
• A written undertaking by the employer accepting responsibility for the costs related to the deportation of the applicant and his or her dependent family members, should it become necessary (Where there is no employer: proof of sufficient financial means to the value of a minimum of R3 000 in the form of three months bank statements)
• A written undertaking by the employer to ensure that the passport of his or her employee is valid at all times for the duration of his or her employment (Where there is no employer: A written undertaking by the applicant to ensure that the passport of the applicant shall be valid at all times for the duration of his or her temporary visa)
• Proof that the applicant falls within the critical skills category by specifically indicating the occupation/critical skill for which the application is being made. The occupation/critical skill must be on the Critical Skills list.
• proof of evaluation of the foreign qualification by SAQA and translated by a sworn translator into one of the official languages of the Republic.
• If required by law, proof of application for a certificate of registration with the professional body, council or board recognised by South African Qualifications Authority (SAQA) in terms of section 13(1)(i) of the National Qualifications Framework Act;
• a confirmation, in writing, from the professional body, council or board recognised by SAQA in terms of section 13(1)(0 of the National Qualifications Framework Act, or any relevant government Department confirming the skills or qualifications of the applicant and appropriate post qualification experience, (if not attached, VFS official to check Directive 22 of 2014)
• Proof of payment of the applicable fee

Notes: A critical skills work visa shall be issued for a period not exceeding five years. Where there is no offer of employment a critical skills visa shall be issued for a period not exceeding one year.

 

CRITICAL SKILL WORK VISA – RENEWAL

• Duly completed online form. Handwritten forms will not be accepted by Department of Home Affairs.
• Passport valid for no less than 30 calendar days after expiry of the intended visit.
• A medical report (not older than 6 months on the day of submission)
• A radiological report (not older than 6 months on the day of submission)
• Marriage certificate or in the case of a foreign spousal relationship, proof of official recognition thereof issued by the authorities of the foreign country of the applicant (where applicable).
• The affidavit where a spousal relationship to a South African citizen or resident is applicable as well as documentation proving cohabitation and the extent to which the related financial responsibilities are shared by the parties and setting out the particulars of children in the spousal relationship.
• Proof of a union recognised in terms of the Recognition of Customary Marriages Act, 1998 (Act No. 120 of 1998), where applicable.
• Divorce decree, where applicable.
• Proof of court order awarding custody, where applicable.
• Death certificate, in respect of late spouse, where applicable.
• Written consent from both parents and/or sole custody parent, where applicable, with proof of sole custody.
• Proof of legal adoption where applicable.
• Legal separation order, where applicable.
• Original Police clearance certificate issued by the police or security authority in each country where the relevant applicant resided for 12 months or longer after attaining the age of 18 years except for South Africa, in respect of criminal records or the character of that applicant, which certificate shall not be older than six months at the time of its submission: (Provided that the certificate shall not be required from a foreign country in the case of renewal or extension of a visa)
• A police clearance certificate shall only be required from the police or security authority in each country where the applicant, after having attained the age of 18 years, has resided for 12 months or longer during the five years immediately preceding the date of application
• Biometric enrolment fee applicable: Yes
• a yellow fever vaccination certificate if that person travelled or intends travelling from or transiting through a yellow fever endemic area: (Provided that the certificate shall not be required where that person travelled or intends travelling in direct transit through such area)
• A written undertaking by the employer accepting responsibility for the costs related to the deportation of the applicant and his or her dependent family members, should it become necessary (All renewals must be accompanied by an offer of employment or employer contact. No renewal without employment contract except for the occupations listed under the category of Life and Earth Sciences and Academics and Researchers)
• A written undertaking by the employer to ensure that the passport of his or her employee is valid at all times for the duration of his or her employment (Where there is no employer: A written undertaking by the applicant to ensure that the passport of the applicant shall be valid at all times for the duration of his or her temporary visa)
• For the occupations listed under the category of Life and Earth Sciences and Academics and Researchers, where there is no employment contract, proof of financial means. (Applicant to also submit additional proof of financial means every 12 months thereafter)
• Proof that the applicant falls within the critical skills category by specifically indicating the occupation/critical skill for which the application is being made as it appears on the critical skills list.
• proof of evaluation of the foreign qualification by South African Qualifications Authority (SAQA) and translated by a sworn translator into one of the official languages of the Republic.
• If required by law, proof of application for a certificate of registration with the professional body, council or board recognised by SAQA in terms of section 13(1)(i) of the National Qualifications Framework Act;
• a confirmation, in writing, from the professional body, council or board recognised by SAQA in terms of section 13(1)(0 of the National Qualifications Framework Act, or any relevant government Department confirming the skills or qualifications of the applicant and appropriate post qualification experience, (if not attached, VFS official to check Directive 22 of 2014)
• Proof of payment of the applicable fee

CRITICAL SKILLS WORK VISA (EXTENSION OF VISA INITIALLY ISSUED FOR 12 MONTHS)

• Duly completed online form. Handwritten forms will not be accepted by Department of Home Affairs.
• Passport valid for no less than 30 calendar days after expiry of the intended visit.
• Original Police clearance certificate issued by the police or security authority in each country where the relevant applicant resided for 12 months or longer after attaining the age of 18 years except for South Africa, in respect of criminal records or the character of that applicant, which certificate shall not be older than six months at the time of its submission: (Provided that the certificate shall not be required from a foreign country in the case of renewal or extension of a visa)
• A police clearance certificate shall only be required from the police or security authority in each country where the applicant, after having attained the age of 18 years, has resided for 12 months or longer during the five years immediately preceding the date of application
• Biometric enrolment fee applicable: Yes
• Contract of Employment or Offer of Employment signed by both applicant and the employer stating the condition that the contract will only be valid provided the applicant obtains a valid critical skills work visa)
• A written undertaking by the employer accepting responsibility for the costs related to the deportation of the applicant and his or her dependent family members, should it become necessary
• A written undertaking by the employer to ensure that the passport of his or her employee is valid at all times for the duration of his or her employment
• Proof that the applicant falls within the critical skills category by specifically indicating the occupation/critical skill for which the application is being made. The occupation/critical skill must be on the Critical Skills list.
• Copy of the Critical Skills Work Visa recently issued to the applicant for 12 months.
• Proof of payment of the applicable fee

Notes:

A critical skills work visa shall be issued for a period not exceeding five years. Where there is no offer of employment a critical skills visa shall be issued for a period not exceeding one year.

Where the applicant was already issued with a Critical Skills Work Visa for 12 months, the extension shall not exceed four (4) years until the next renewal.

Processing Time

• Applications are assessed individually and time frames may vary, therefore you are kindly requested to wait until a decision on your application is taken and is ready for collection, as VFS Global cannot control or influence the processing times in any way.

You can track your application online on VFS Global website to determine status of your application.

Visa fees

All fees are inclusive of VAT and to be paid in South African Rand. Above listed fees are non-refundable once the application is received by VFS Global and Department of Home Affairs.

Once all supporting documentation is available as per the documentary checklist kindly proceed to complete the online application form.

You will be required to pre-pay a minimum amount of R1550 in order to secure and schedule your appointment online.

Payment to secure your online appointment can be made in three methods:

• Online payment via Debit/Credit card through the secure online portal
• Pre-payment at Standard Bank by downloading and completing the online generated bank receipt and depositing the cash into the nearest Standard Bank
• EFT payment through the secure online portal

Note- When selecting the pre-payment option, after payment has been done you are required to visit your online application form after 3 working days to proceed to schedule your appointment.

DHA payments and Value addued services can be paid at the Visa Application Centre if not done before appointment scheduling.

Overview

Occasionally, multi-national companies may decide to transfer an existing employee from a foreign branch to a branch in South Africa. These employees must apply for intra-company transfer work permits. In such cases, no proof of steps taken to obtain the services of a South African citizen/permanent residence will be required.

The holder of an intra-company transfer work permit issued to them prior to 26 May 2014 for a period of two years, who wishes to continue with an international assignment for the remainder of the four year period, may submit an application for a new intra-company work visa at the VFS visa application centers or at the South African mission in the applicants country of origin or where he/she holds permanent residency.

However, where an assignee has completed four years of his/her international assignment and the operational needs of the branch, subsidiary or Affiliate Company in South Africa requires the services of the assignee for a further period, an application for a new intra-company work visa needs to be submitted. Such applications must, however, be submitted at the South African Mission in the applicants country of origin or of permanent residence. A new intra-company transfer work visa for a period not exceeding four years may be granted, provided that all prescribed requirements are met.

Documents Required

• Duly completed online form. Handwritten forms will not be accepted by Department of Home Affairs.
• Passport valid for no less than 30 calendar days after expiry of the intended visit.
• A medical report.
• A radiological report.
• Marriage certificate or in the case of a foreign spousal relationship, proof of official recognition thereof issued by the authorities of the foreign country of the applicant (where applicable).
• The affidavit where a spousal relationship to a South African citizen or resident is applicable as well as documentation proving cohabitation and the extent to which the related financial responsibilities are shared by the parties and setting out the particulars of children in the spousal relationship.
• Proof of a union recognised in terms of the Recognition of Customary Marriages Act, 1998 (Act No. 120 of 1998), where applicable.
• Divorce decree, where applicable.
• Proof of court order awarding custody, where applicable.
• Death certificate, in respect of late spouse, where applicable.
• Written consent from both parents and/or sole custody parent, where applicable, with proof of sole custody.
• Proof of legal adoption where applicable.
• Legal separation order, where applicable.
• Original Police clearance certificate issued by the police or security authority in each country where the relevant applicant resided for 12 months or longer after attaining the age of 18 years except for South Africa, in respect of criminal records or the character of that applicant, which certificate shall not be older than six months at the time of its submission: (Provided that the certificate shall not be required from a foreign country in the case of renewal or extension of a visa)
• A police clearance certificate shall only be required from the police or security authority in each country where the applicant, after having attained the age of 18 years, has resided for 12 months or longer during the five years immediately preceding the date of application
• Biometric enrolment fee applicable: Yes
• a yellow fever vaccination certificate if that person travelled or intends travelling from or transiting through a yellow fever endemic area: (Provided that the certificate shall not be required where that person travelled or intends travelling in direct transit through such area)
• The foreigner's contract of employment with the company abroad valid for a period of not less than six months
• A letter from the company abroad confirming that the foreigner shall be transferred to a branch, subsidiary or an affiliate of that company in the Republic
• A letter from the branch, subsidiary or an affiliate in the Republic confirming the transfer of the foreigner and specifying the occupation and capacity in which that foreigner shall be employed.
• An undertaking by the relevant employer that:
1. A foreigner is only employed in the specific position for which the visa has been issued;
2. the foreign employee will at all times comply with the provisions of the Act and conditions of his or her visa and undertakes to immediately notify the Director-General if the employee refuses to comply with the provisions of the Act or conditions of the visa; and
3. a plan is developed for the transfer of skills to a South African citizen or permanent resident.
• An undertaking by the relevant employer to reimburse the Department any costs incurred in relation to the deportation of the holder of an intra-company transfer work visa and any of his or her dependent family members.
• Proof of payment of the applicable fee

INTRA COMPANY TRANSFER - RENEWAL

• Duly completed online form. Handwritten forms will not be accepted by Department of Home Affairs.
• Passport valid for no less than 30 calendar days after expiry of the intended visit.
• A medical report.
• A radiological report.
• Marriage certificate or in the case of a foreign spousal relationship, proof of official recognition thereof issued by the authorities of the foreign country of the applicant (where applicable).
• The affidavit where a spousal relationship to a South African citizen or resident is applicable as well as documentation proving cohabitation and the extent to which the related financial responsibilities are shared by the parties and setting out the particulars of children in the spousal relationship.
• Proof of a union recognised in terms of the Recognition of Customary Marriages Act, 1998 (Act No. 120 of 1998), where applicable.
• Divorce decree, where applicable.
• Proof of court order awarding custody, where applicable.
• Death certificate, in respect of late spouse, where applicable.
• Written consent from both parents and/or sole custody parent, where applicable, with proof of sole custody.
• Proof of legal adoption where applicable.
• Legal separation order, where applicable.
• Original Police clearance certificate issued by the police or security authority in each country where the relevant applicant resided for 12 months or longer after attaining the age of 18 years except for South Africa, in respect of criminal records or the character of that applicant, which certificate shall not be older than six months at the time of its submission: (Provided that the certificate shall not be required from a foreign country in the case of renewal or extension of a visa)
• A police clearance certificate shall only be required from the police or security authority in each country where the applicant, after having attained the age of 18 years, has resided for 12 months or longer during the five years immediately preceding the date of application
• Biometric enrolment fee applicable: Yes
• a yellow fever vaccination certificate if that person travelled or intends travelling from or transiting through a yellow fever endemic area: (Provided that the certificate shall not be required where that person travelled or intends travelling in direct transit through such area)
• the foreigner's contract of employment with the company abroad valid for a period of not less than six months
• a letter from the company abroad confirming that the foreigner’s assignment continues to be at a branch, subsidiary or an affiliate of that company in the Republic
• a letter from the branch, subsidiary or an affiliate in the Republic confirming the transfer of the foreigner and specifying the occupation and capacity in which that foreigner shall be employed.
• An undertaking by the relevant employer that:
1. a foreigner is only employed in the specific position for which the visa has been issued;
2. the foreign employee will at all times comply with the provisions of the Act and conditions of his or her visa and undertakes to immediately notify the Director-General if the employee refuses to comply with the provisions of the Act or conditions of the visa; and
• Proof and details of a South African citizen(s) or permanent resident(s) to whom the applicant has and continues to transfer skills since obtaining the work visa.
• An undertaking by the relevant employer to reimburse the Department any costs incurred in relation to the deportation of the holder of an intra-company transfer work visa and any of his or her dependent family members.
• Proof of payment of the applicable fee

Processing Time

• Applications are assessed individually and time frames may vary, therefore you are kindly requested to wait until a decision on your application is taken and is ready for collection, as VFS Global cannot control or influence the processing times in any way.

All other categories for permanent residence permit applications will be finalised between 12 months to 24 months from date of submission at VFS.

You can track your application online on VFS Global website to determine status of your application.

Visa fees

All fees are inclusive of VAT and to be paid in South African Rand. Above listed fees are non-refundable once the application is received by VFS Global and Department of Home Affairs.

Once all supporting documentation is available as per the documentary checklist kindly proceed to complete the online application form.

You will be required to pre-pay a minimum amount of R1550 in order to secure and schedule your appointment online.

Payment to secure your online appointment can be made in three methods:

• Online payment via Debit/Credit card through the secure online portal
• Pre-payment at Standard Bank by downloading and completing the online generated bank receipt and depositing the cash into the nearest Standard Bank
• EFT payment through the secure online portal

Note- When selecting the pre-payment option, after payment has been done you are required to visit your online application form after 3 working days to proceed to schedule your appointment.

DHA payments and Value addued services can be paid at the Visa Application Centre if not done before appointment scheduling.

Overview

Visitors visa section 11(1) (b) (i) for academic sabbaticals (exceeding 3 months to 3 years)

Documents Required

• Duly completed online form. Handwritten forms will not be accepted by Department of Home Affairs.
• Valid passport which expires in no less than 30 days after expiry of the intended date of departure from the Republic in terms of regulation 9(1)(a)

• The application is being submitted in person, no less than 60 days prior to the expiry date of the applicant’s visa and if the visa was issued for less than 30 days, not later than seven working days before the expiry of the visa.
• A valid return air flight ticket or proof of reservation thereof
• The proof of sufficient available financial resources contemplated in section 11(1)(b) of the Act in the form of a recently bank certified statement, for the last three months.
• A medical report.
• A radiological report. Provided that a radiological report shall not be required in respect of children under the age of 12 years or pregnant women;
• in respect of dependent children accompanying the applicant or joining the applicant in the Republic, proof of parental responsibilities and rights or written consent in the form of an affidavit from the other parent or legal guardian, as the case may be
• in respect of a spouse accompanying the applicant or joining the applicant in the Republic, a copy of a marriage certificate or proof of a relationship as contemplated in regulation 3;
• Statement or documentation detailing the purpose and duration of the visit in terms of regulation 11(1)(a)
• In respect of dependent children accompanying the applicant to or joining the applicant in the Republic, be accompanied by:
1. Proof of consent from one or both parents or legal guardian, as the case may be, in the form of a letter or affidavit; where applicable, a copy of a court order granting the applicant parental responsibilities and rights in respect of the child;
2. A letter from the person who is to receive the child in the Republic, containing his or her residential address in the Republic where the child will be residing;
3. A copy of the identity document or valid passport and visa or permanent residence permit of the person who is to receive the child in the Republic; and
4. The contact details of the parents or legal guardian;
• Where the application is for the attendance of an activity or event, include a letter from the organisation under whose control the activity or event will take place, confirming such attendance and whether or not the foreigner will be remunerated, and if remunerated, the amount of the remuneration.
• A yellow fever vaccination certificate if that person travelled or intends travelling from or transiting through a yellow fever endemic area: (Provided that the certificate shall not be required where that person travelled or intends travelling in direct transit through such area)
• The affidavit where a spousal relationship to a South African citizen or resident is applicable as well as documentation proving cohabitation and the extent to which the related financial responsibilities are shared by the parties and setting out the particulars of children in the spousal relationship.
• Proof of a union recognised in terms of the Recognition of Customary Marriages Act, 1998 (Act No. 120 of 1998), where applicable.
• Divorce decree, where applicable.
• Death certificate, in respect of late spouse, where applicable.
• Legal separation order, where applicable.
• Proof of payment of the applicable fee
• Original Police clearance certificate issued by the police or security authority in each country where the relevant applicant resided for 12 months or longer after attaining the age of 18 years except for South Africa, in respect of criminal records or the character of that applicant, which certificate shall not be older than six months at the time of its submission: (Provided that the certificate shall not be required from a foreign country in the case of renewal or extension of a visa)
• A police clearance certificate shall only be required from the police or security authority in each country where the applicant, after having attained the age of 18 years, has resided for 12 months or longer during the five years immediately preceding the date of application
• Biometric enrolment fee applicable: Yes

Processing Time

• Applications are assessed individually and time frames may vary, therefore you are kindly requested to wait until a decision on your application is taken and is ready for collection, as VFS Global cannot control or influence the processing times in any way.

All other categories for permanent residence permit applications will be finalised between 12 months to 24 months from date of submission at VFS.

You can track your application online on VFS Global website to determine status of your application.

Visa fees

All fees are inclusive of VAT and to be paid in South African Rand. Above listed fees are non-refundable once the application is received by VFS Global and Department of Home Affairs.

Once all supporting documentation is available as per the documentary checklist kindly proceed to complete the online application form.

You will be required to pre-pay a minimum amount of R1550 in order to secure and schedule your appointment online.

Payment to secure your online appointment can be made in three methods:

• Online payment via Debit/Credit card through the secure online portal
• Pre-payment at Standard Bank by downloading and completing the online generated bank receipt and depositing the cash into the nearest Standard Bank
• EFT payment through the secure online portal

Note- When selecting the pre-payment option, after payment has been done you are required to visit your online application form after 3 working days to proceed to schedule your appointment.

DHA payments and Value addued services can be paid at the Visa Application Centre if not done before appointment scheduling.

Overview

Visitors visa section 11(1) (b) (iii) for research activities (exceeding 3 months to 3 years)

Documents Required

• Duly completed online form. Handwritten forms will not be accepted by Department of Home Affairs.
• Valid passport which expires in no less than 30 days after expiry of the intended date of departure from the Republic in terms of regulation 9(1)(a)

• The application is being submitted in person, no less than 60 days prior to the expiry date of the applicant’s visa and if the visa was issued for less than 30 days, not later than seven working days before the expiry of the visa.
• A valid return air flight ticket or proof of reservation thereof
• The proof of sufficient available financial resources contemplated in section 11(1)(b) of the Act in the form of a recently bank certified statement, for the last three months.
• A medical report.
• A radiological report. Provided that a radiological report shall not be required in respect of children under the age of 12 years or pregnant women;
• in respect of dependent children accompanying the applicant or joining the applicant in the Republic, proof of parental responsibilities and rights or written consent in the form of an affidavit from the other parent or legal guardian, as the case may be
• in respect of a spouse accompanying the applicant or joining the applicant in the Republic, a copy of a marriage certificate or proof of a relationship as contemplated in regulation 3;
• Statement or documentation detailing the purpose and duration of the visit in terms of regulation 11(1)(a)
• In respect of dependent children accompanying the applicant to or joining the applicant in the Republic, be accompanied by:
1. proof of consent from one or both parents or legal guardian, as the case may be, in the form of a letter or affidavit;
2. where applicable, a copy of a court order granting the applicant parental responsibilities and rights in respect of the child;
3. a letter from the person who is to receive the child in the Republic, containing his or her residential address in the Republic where the child will be residing;
4. a copy of the identity document or valid passport and visa or permanent residence permit of the person who is to receive the child in the Republic; and
5. the contact details of the parents or legal guardian;
• Where the application is for the attendance of an activity or event, include a letter from the organisation under whose control the activity or event will take place, confirming such attendance and whether or not the foreigner will be remunerated, and if remunerated, the amount of the remuneration.
• A yellow fever vaccination certificate if that person travelled or intends travelling from or transiting through a yellow fever endemic area: (Provided that the certificate shall not be required where that person travelled or intends travelling in direct transit through such area)
• The affidavit where a spousal relationship to a South African citizen or resident is applicable as well as documentation proving cohabitation and the extent to which the related financial responsibilities are shared by the parties and setting out the particulars of children in the spousal relationship.
• Proof of a union recognised in terms of the Recognition of Customary Marriages Act, 1998 (Act No. 120 of 1998), where applicable.
• Divorce decree, where applicable.
• Death certificate, in respect of late spouse, where applicable.
• Legal separation order, where applicable.
• Proof of payment of the applicable fee
• Original Police clearance certificate issued by the police or security authority in each country where the relevant applicant resided for 12 months or longer after attaining the age of 18 years except for South Africa, in respect of criminal records or the character of that applicant, which certificate shall not be older than six months at the time of its submission: (Provided that the certificate shall not be required from a foreign country in the case of renewal or extension of a visa)
• A police clearance certificate shall only be required from the police or security authority in each country where the applicant, after having attained the age of 18 years, has resided for 12 months or longer during the five years immediately preceding the date of application
• Biometric enrolment fee applicable: Yes

Notes: No person holding a visitor's visa may apply for a change of status to his or her visa while in the Republic, unless under exceptional circumstances set out below:

1. is in need of emergency lifesaving medical treatment for longer than three months;
2. is an accompanying spouse or child of a holder of the business or work visa, who wishes to apply for a study or work visa;
3. be that the holder's continued stay in the Republic is required for any purpose related to a criminal trial in the Republic: Provided that such application shall be initiated by the relevant Deputy Director of Public Prosecutions and addressed to the Director-General.

Processing Time

• Applications are assessed individually and time frames may vary, therefore you are kindly requested to wait until a decision on your application is taken and is ready for collection, as VFS Global cannot control or influence the processing times in any way.

You can track your application online on VFS Global website to determine status of your application.

Visa fees

All fees are inclusive of VAT and to be paid in South African Rand. Above listed fees are non-refundable once the application is received by VFS Global and Department of Home Affairs.

Once all supporting documentation is available as per the documentary checklist kindly proceed to complete the online application form.

You will be required to pre-pay a minimum amount of R1550 in order to secure and schedule your appointment online.

Payment to secure your online appointment can be made in three methods:

• Online payment via Debit/Credit card through the secure online portal
• Pre-payment at Standard Bank by downloading and completing the online generated bank receipt and depositing the cash into the nearest Standard Bank
• EFT payment through the secure online portal

Note- When selecting the pre-payment option, after payment has been done you are required to visit your online application form after 3 working days to proceed to schedule your appointment.

DHA payments and Value addued services can be paid at the Visa Application Centre if not done before appointment scheduling.

Overview

Exchange permits may be issued to foreigners who are not older than 25 years of age and wish to participate in cultural, economic or social exchange programmes administered by an organ of the State or a public higher educational institution in conjunction with an organ of a foreign state.

Documents Required

• Duly completed online form. Handwritten forms will not be accepted by Department of Home Affairs.
• Passport valid for no less than 30 calendar days after expiry of the intended visit.
• A medical report.
• A radiological report.
• Marriage certificate or in the case of a foreign spousal relationship, proof of official recognition thereof issued by the authorities of the foreign country of the applicant (where applicable).
• The affidavit where a spousal relationship to a South African citizen or resident is applicable as well as documentation proving cohabitation and the extent to which the related financial responsibilities are shared by the parties and setting out the particulars of children in the spousal relationship.
• Proof of a union recognised in terms of the Recognition of Customary Marriages Act, 1998 (Act No. 120 of 1998), where applicable.
• Divorce decree, where applicable.
• Proof of court order awarding custody, where applicable.
• Death certificate, in respect of late spouse, where applicable.
• Written consent from both parents and/or sole custody parent, where applicable, with proof of sole custody.
• Proof of legal adoption where applicable.
• Legal separation order, where applicable.
• Original Police clearance certificate issued by the police or security authority in each country where the relevant applicant resided for 12 months or longer after attaining the age of 18 years except for South Africa, in respect of criminal records or the character of that applicant, which certificate shall not be older than six months at the time of its submission: (Provided that the certificate shall not be required from a foreign country in the case of renewal or extension of a visa)
• A police clearance certificate shall only be required from the police or security authority in each country where the applicant, after having attained the age of 18 years, has resided for 12 months or longer during the five years immediately preceding the date of application
• Biometric enrolment fee applicable: Yes
• a yellow fever vaccination certificate if that person travelled or intends travelling from or transiting through a yellow fever endemic area: (Provided that the certificate shall not be required where that person travelled or intends travelling in direct transit through such area)
• Proof of payment of the applicable fee

In addition to the above requirements, in the case of a learning institution in the Republic, in conjunction with a foreign education and training institution or a foreign state institution organising or administering the programme, submit a letter from:

• proof of a valid return air flight ticket or written undertaking by the organ of state or learning institution accepting responsibility for the return or deportation costs of the applicant, as the case may be
• proof of medical cover for the duration of the exchange period with a medical scheme registered in terms of the Medical Schemes Act.
• the Department of Basic Education or Higher Education and Training or a learning institution in the Republic confirming that it is responsible for organising or administering the existence of the programme, outlining the activities, terms and conditions and duration thereof and accepting full responsibility for the student while he or she is in the Republic; and
• the foreign state institution or education and training institution confirming the particulars of the applicant, the applicant's enrolment with the foreign education and training institution, and the date on which the programme shall commence.

In addition to the above requirements, in the case of a programme of cultural, economic or social exchange organised or administered by an organ of state or a learning institution, in conjunction with a foreign education and training institution or a foreign state institution, submit a letter from:

• Proof of a valid return air flight ticket or written undertaking by the organ of state or learning institution accepting responsibility for the return or deportation costs of the applicant, as the case may be
• Proof of medical cover for the duration of the exchange period with a medical scheme registered in terms of the Medical Schemes Act.
• The organ of state or foreign education and training institution confirming the existence of the exchange programme; or
• The foreign education and training institution confirming the enrolment of the applicant or the foreign state institution conducting the programme, as the case may be.

In addition to the above requirements, in the case of a foreigner who is under 25 years of age and has received an offer to conduct work for no longer than one year

• proof of a valid return air flight ticket or written undertaking by the employer accepting responsibility for the return or deportation costs of the applicant, as the case may be
• Proof of medical cover for the duration of the exchange period with a medical scheme registered in terms of the Medical Schemes Act.
• A written undertaking by the employer to—
1. Pay such foreigner remuneration which complies with applicable legal requirements;
2. Provide for the welfare and the needs of such foreigner while in the Republic under the aforesaid visa; and
3. Report to the Director-General the failure of the foreigner to comply with the terms of his or her visa or to depart when so required;

EXCHANGE VISA - RENEWAL

• Duly completed online form. Handwritten forms will not be accepted by Department of Home Affairs.
• Passport valid for no less than 30 calendar days after expiry of the intended visit.
• A medical report.
• A radiological report.
• Marriage certificate or in the case of a foreign spousal relationship, proof of official recognition thereof issued by the authorities of the foreign country of the applicant (where applicable).
• The affidavit where a spousal relationship to a South African citizen or resident is applicable as well as documentation proving cohabitation and the extent to which the related financial responsibilities are shared by the parties and setting out the particulars of children in the spousal relationship.
• Proof of a union recognised in terms of the Recognition of Customary Marriages Act, 1998 (Act No. 120 of 1998), where applicable.
• Divorce decree, where applicable.
• Proof of court order awarding custody, where applicable.
• Death certificate, in respect of late spouse, where applicable.
• Written consent from both parents and/or sole custody parent, where applicable, with proof of sole custody.
• Proof of legal adoption where applicable.
• Legal separation order, where applicable.
• Original Police clearance certificate issued by the police or security authority in each country where the relevant applicant resided for 12 months or longer after attaining the age of 18 years except for South Africa, in respect of criminal records or the character of that applicant, which certificate shall not be older than six months at the time of its submission: (Provided that the certificate shall not be required from a foreign country in the case of renewal or extension of a visa)
• A police clearance certificate shall only be required from the police or security authority in each country where the applicant, after having attained the age of 18 years, has resided for 12 months or longer during the five years immediately preceding the date of application
• Biometric enrolment fee applicable: Yes
• a yellow fever vaccination certificate if that person travelled or intends travelling from or transiting through a yellow fever endemic area: (Provided that the certificate shall not be required where that person travelled or intends travelling in direct transit through such area)
• Proof of payment of the applicable fee

In addition to the above requirements, in the case of a learning institution in the Republic, in conjunction with a foreign education and training institution or a foreign state institution organising or administering the programme, submit a letter from:

• proof of a valid return air flight ticket or written undertaking by the organ of state or learning institution accepting responsibility for the return or deportation costs of the applicant, as the case may be
• proof of medical cover for the duration of the exchange period with a medical scheme registered in terms of the Medical Schemes Act.
• the Department of Basic Education or Higher Education and Training or a learning institution in the Republic confirming that it is responsible for organising or administering the existence of the programme, outlining the activities, terms and conditions and duration thereof and accepting full responsibility for the student while he or she is in the Republic; and
• the foreign state institution or education and training institution confirming the particulars of the applicant, the applicant's enrolment with the foreign education and training institution, and the date on which the programme shall commence.

In addition to the above requirements, in the case of a programme of cultural, economic or social exchange, organised or administered by an organ of state or a learning institution, in conjunction with a foreign education and training institution or a foreign state institution, submit a letter from:

• Proof of a valid return air flight ticket or written undertaking by the organ of state or learning institution accepting responsibility for the return or deportation costs of the applicant, as the case may be
• Proof of medical cover for the duration of the exchange period with a medical scheme registered in terms of the Medical Schemes Act.
• The organ of state or foreign education and training institution confirming the existence of the exchange programme; or
• The foreign education and training institution confirming the enrolment of the applicant or the foreign state institution conducting the programme, as the case may be.

In addition to the above requirements, in the case of a foreigner who is under 25 years of age and has received an offer to conduct work for no longer than one year

• Proof of a valid return air flight ticket or written undertaking by the employer accepting responsibility for the return or deportation costs of the applicant, as the case may be
• Proof of medical cover for the duration of the exchange period with a medical scheme registered in terms of the Medical Schemes Act.
• A written undertaking by the employer to—
1. Pay such foreigner remuneration which complies with applicable legal requirements;
2. Provide for the welfare and the needs of such foreigner while in the Republic under the aforesaid visa; and
3. Report to the Director-General the failure of the foreigner to comply with the terms of his or her visa or to depart when so required;

Processing Time

• Applications are assessed individually and time frames may vary, therefore you are kindly requested to wait until a decision on your application is taken and is ready for collection, as VFS Global cannot control or influence the processing times in any way.

You can track your application online on VFS Global website to determine status of your application.

Visa fees

All fees are inclusive of VAT and to be paid in South African Rand. Above listed fees are non-refundable once the application is received by VFS Global and Department of Home Affairs.

Once all supporting documentation is available as per the documentary checklist kindly proceed to complete the online application form.

You will be required to pre-pay a minimum amount of R1550 in order to secure and schedule your appointment online.

Payment to secure your online appointment can be made in three methods:

• Online payment via Debit/Credit card through the secure online portal
• Pre-payment at Standard Bank by downloading and completing the online generated bank receipt and depositing the cash into the nearest Standard Bank
• EFT payment through the secure online portal

Note- When selecting the pre-payment option, after payment has been done you are required to visit your online application form after 3 working days to proceed to schedule your appointment.

DHA payments and Value addued services can be paid at the Visa Application Centre if not done before appointment scheduling.

Overview

A Visitor Visa is applied at South African Embassy or Mission abroad. An applicant can apply for a renewal on existing visa subject to decision by Department of Home Affairs to grant the visa or permit at a Visa & Permit Facilitation Centre close to the applicant’s residence.

A Visitor Visa is a document that gives travellers permission to enter South Africa on a temporary basis for

• Visit to family or friends and Tourism purposes

Documents Required

• Duly completed online form. Handwritten forms will not be accepted by Department of Home Affairs.
• Valid passport which expires in no less than 30 days after expiry of the intended date of departure from the Republic in terms of regulation 9(1)(a)

• A valid return air flight ticket or proof of reservation thereof
• Proof of sufficient financial means contemplated in subregulation (3).
• The application is being submitted in person, no less than 60 days prior to the expiry date of the applicant’s visa and if the visa was issued for less than 30 days, not later than seven working days before the expiry of the visa.
• A medical report not older than 6 months
• A radiological report. Provided that a radiological report shall not be required in respect of children under the age of 12 years or pregnant women;
• in respect of dependent children accompanying the applicant or joining the applicant in the Republic, proof of parental responsibilities and rights or written consent in the form of an affidavit from the other parent or legal guardian,
• in respect of a spouse accompanying the applicant or joining the applicant in the Republic, a copy of a marriage certificate or proof of a relationship as contemplated in regulation 3;
• Statement or documentation detailing the purpose and duration of the visit in terms of regulation 11(1)(a)
• In respect of dependent children accompanying the applicant to or joining the applicant in the Republic, be accompanied by:
1. proof of consent from one or both parents or legal guardian, as the case may be, in the form of a letter or affidavit;
2. where applicable, a copy of a court order granting the applicant parental responsibilities and rights in respect of the child;
3. a letter from the person who is to receive the child in the Republic, containing his or her residential address in the Republic where the child will be residing;
4. a copy of the identity document or valid passport and visa or permanent residence permit of the person who is to receive the child in the Republic; and
5. the contact details of the parents or legal guardian;
• Where the application is for the attendance of an activity or event, include a letter from the organisation under whose control the activity or event will take place, confirming such attendance and whether or not the foreigner will be remunerated, and if remunerated, the amount of the remuneration.
• A yellow fever vaccination certificate if that person travelled or intends travelling from or transiting through a yellow fever endemic area: (Provided that the certificate shall not be required where that person travelled or intends travelling in direct transit through such area)
• The affidavit where a spousal relationship to a South African citizen or resident is applicable as well as documentation proving cohabitation and the extent to which the related financial responsibilities are shared by the parties and setting out the particulars of children in the spousal relationship.
• Proof of a union recognised in terms of the Recognition of Customary Marriages Act, 1998 (Act No. 120 of 1998), where applicable.
• Divorce decree, where applicable.
• Death certificate, in respect of late spouse, where applicable.
• Legal separation order, where applicable.
• Proof of payment of the applicable fee

Notes: No person holding a visitor's visa may apply for a change of status to his or her visa while in the Republic, unless under exceptional circumstances set out below:

1. is in need of emergency lifesaving medical treatment for longer than three months;
2. is an accompanying spouse or child of a holder of the business or work visa, who wishes to apply for a study or work visa;
3. be that the holder's continued stay in the Republic is required for any purpose related to a criminal trial in the Republic: Provided that such application shall be initiated by the relevant Deputy Director of Public Prosecutions and addressed to the Director-General.

VISITORS VISA – RENEWAL
In respect of the renewal of a port of entry visa

• Valid passport which expires in no less than 30 days after expiry of the intended date of departure from the Republic.
• Proof of sufficient financial means.
• The application is being submitted in person, no less than 60 days prior to the expiry date of the applicant’s visa and if the visa was issued for less than 30 days, not later than seven working days before the expiry of the visa.
• A valid return air flight ticket or proof of reservation thereof
• Where the applicant is attending an activity or event, a letter from the organisation under whose control the activity or event is taking place.

In respect of the renewal of a visitor's visa for a period not exceeding three months

• Valid passport which expires in no less than 30 days after expiry of the intended date of departure from the Republic.
• The application is being submitted in person, no less than 60 days prior to the expiry date of the applicant’s visa and if the visa was issued for less than 30 days, not later than seven working days before the expiry of the visa.
• A statement or documentation detailing the purpose and duration of the visit
• A valid return air flight ticket or proof of reservation thereof
• Proof of sufficient financial means

In addition to the general requirements of a temporary residence visa, the following additional documents will be required, in respect of the renewal of a visitor's visa for a period exceeding three months

• Valid passport which expires in no less than 30 days after expiry of the intended date of departure from the Republic
• The application is being submitted in person, no less than 60 days prior to the expiry date of the applicant’s visa and if the visa was issued for less than 30 days, not later than seven working days before the expiry of the visa.
• A medical report.
• A radiological report. Provided that a radiological report shall not be required in respect of children under the age of 12 years or pregnant women;
• Proof of a valid air flight ticket or proof of reservation thereof
• Proof of sufficient financial means
• A South African Police Clearance certificate where the applicant has been resident in the Republic for 12 months and longer

In addition to the general requirements of a temporary residence visa, the following additional documents will be required, in respect of an applicant who is the spouse or dependent child of the holder of a visa issued in terms of section 11, 13, 14, 15, 17, 18, 19, 20 or 22 of the Act

• Certified copy of the valid visa of the person who is being accompanied by the applicant
• Written undertaking of financial responsibility for the applicant in terms of regulation 11(4)(a) by the person being accompanied

In addition to the general requirements of a temporary residence visa, the following additional documents will be required, in respect of a teacher at an international school

• Contract of employment signed by the employer and the applicant in terms of regulation 11(4)(b)
• Written undertaking of financial responsibility for the applicant

In addition to the general requirements of a temporary residence visa, the following additional documents will be required, in respect of a person involved in the production of a film or advertisement in the Republic

• Documentation confirming such production and the duration thereof

In addition to the general requirements of a temporary residence visa, the following additional documents will be required, in respect of a foreign journalist seconded to the Republic by a foreign news agency

• Documentation confirming such secondment and the duration thereof

In addition to the general requirements of a temporary residence visa, the following additional documents will be required, in respect of a visiting professor or lecturer

• An invitation from the host in the Republic

In addition to the general requirements of a temporary residence visa, the following additional documents will be required, in respect of artists who wish to write, paint or sculpt

• A portfolio of his or her previous work

In addition to the general requirements of a temporary residence visa, the following additional documents will be required, in respect of a person involved in the entertainment industry who is travelling through the Republic to perform

• Confirmation thereof by the host in the Republic

In addition to the general requirements of a temporary residence visa, the following additional documents will be required, in respect of a tour leader or host of a tour

• contract of employment signed by the employer and the applicant
• A written undertaking of financial responsibility for the applicant

In addition to the general requirements of a temporary residence visa, the following additional documents will be required, in respect of a foreigner who is required to stay in the Republic in order to testify as a state witness in a criminal court case

• A written request signed by the Deputy Director of Public Prosecutions

Notes: No person holding a visitor's visa may apply for a change of status to his or her visa while in the Republic, unless under exceptional circumstances set out below:

1. is in need of emergency lifesaving medical treatment for longer than three months;
   
2. is an accompanying spouse or child of a holder of the business or work visa, who wishes to apply for a study or work visa;
   
3. be that the holder's continued stay in the Republic is required for any purpose related to a criminal trial in the Republic: Provided that such application shall be initiated by the relevant Deputy Director of Public Prosecutions and addressed to the Director-General.

Processing Time

• Applications are assessed individually and time frames may vary, therefore you are kindly requested to wait until a decision on your application is taken and is ready for collection, as VFS Global cannot control or influence the processing times in any way.

You can track your application online on VFS Global website to determine status of your application.

Visa fees

All fees are inclusive of VAT and to be paid in South African Rand. Above listed fees are non-refundable once the application is received by VFS Global and Department of Home Affairs.

Once all supporting documentation is available as per the documentary checklist kindly proceed to complete the online application form.

You will be required to pre-pay a minimum amount of R1550 in order to secure and schedule your appointment online.

Payment to secure your online appointment can be made in three methods:

• Online payment via Debit/Credit card through the secure online portal
• Pre-payment at Standard Bank by downloading and completing the online generated bank receipt and depositing the cash into the nearest Standard Bank
• EFT payment through the secure online portal

Note- When selecting the pre-payment option, after payment has been done you are required to visit your online application form after 3 working days to proceed to schedule your appointment.

DHA payments and Value addued services can be paid at the Visa Application Centre if not done before appointment scheduling.

Overview

A Visitor Visa is applied at South African Embassy or Mission abroad. An applicant can apply for a renewal on existing visa subject to decision by Department of Home Affairs to grant the visa or permit at a Visa & Permit Facilitation Centre close to the applicant’s residence.

A Visitor Visa is a document that gives travellers permission to enter South Africa on a temporary basis for

• Visit to family or friends and Tourism purposes

Documents Required

• Duly completed online form. Handwritten forms will not be accepted by Department of Home Affairs.
• Valid passport which expires in no less than 30 days after expiry of the intended date of departure from the Republic in terms of regulation 9(1)(a)

• A valid return air flight ticket or proof of reservation thereof
• Proof of sufficient financial means contemplated in subregulation (3).
• The application is being submitted in person, no less than 60 days prior to the expiry date of the applicant’s visa and if the visa was issued for less than 30 days, not later than seven working days before the expiry of the visa.
• A medical report not older than 6 months
• A radiological report. Provided that a radiological report shall not be required in respect of children under the age of 12 years or pregnant women;
• in respect of dependent children accompanying the applicant or joining the applicant in the Republic, proof of parental responsibilities and rights or written consent in the form of an affidavit from the other parent or legal guardian,
• in respect of a spouse accompanying the applicant or joining the applicant in the Republic, a copy of a marriage certificate or proof of a relationship as contemplated in regulation 3;
• Statement or documentation detailing the purpose and duration of the visit in terms of regulation 11(1)(a)
• In respect of dependent children accompanying the applicant to or joining the applicant in the Republic, be accompanied by:
1. proof of consent from one or both parents or legal guardian, as the case may be, in the form of a letter or affidavit;
2. where applicable, a copy of a court order granting the applicant parental responsibilities and rights in respect of the child;
3. a letter from the person who is to receive the child in the Republic, containing his or her residential address in the Republic where the child will be residing;
4. a copy of the identity document or valid passport and visa or permanent residence permit of the person who is to receive the child in the Republic; and
5. the contact details of the parents or legal guardian;
• Where the application is for the attendance of an activity or event, include a letter from the organisation under whose control the activity or event will take place, confirming such attendance and whether or not the foreigner will be remunerated, and if remunerated, the amount of the remuneration.
• A yellow fever vaccination certificate if that person travelled or intends travelling from or transiting through a yellow fever endemic area: (Provided that the certificate shall not be required where that person travelled or intends travelling in direct transit through such area)
• The affidavit where a spousal relationship to a South African citizen or resident is applicable as well as documentation proving cohabitation and the extent to which the related financial responsibilities are shared by the parties and setting out the particulars of children in the spousal relationship.
• Proof of a union recognised in terms of the Recognition of Customary Marriages Act, 1998 (Act No. 120 of 1998), where applicable.
• Divorce decree, where applicable.
• Death certificate, in respect of late spouse, where applicable.
• Legal separation order, where applicable.
• Proof of payment of the applicable fee

Notes: No person holding a visitor's visa may apply for a change of status to his or her visa while in the Republic, unless under exceptional circumstances set out below:

1. is in need of emergency lifesaving medical treatment for longer than three months;
2. is an accompanying spouse or child of a holder of the business or work visa, who wishes to apply for a study or work visa;
3. be that the holder's continued stay in the Republic is required for any purpose related to a criminal trial in the Republic: Provided that such application shall be initiated by the relevant Deputy Director of Public Prosecutions and addressed to the Director-General.

VISITORS VISA – RENEWAL
In respect of the renewal of a port of entry visa

• Valid passport which expires in no less than 30 days after expiry of the intended date of departure from the Republic.
• Proof of sufficient financial means.
• The application is being submitted in person, no less than 60 days prior to the expiry date of the applicant’s visa and if the visa was issued for less than 30 days, not later than seven working days before the expiry of the visa.
• A valid return air flight ticket or proof of reservation thereof
• Where the applicant is attending an activity or event, a letter from the organisation under whose control the activity or event is taking place.

In respect of the renewal of a visitor's visa for a period not exceeding three months

• Valid passport which expires in no less than 30 days after expiry of the intended date of departure from the Republic.
• The application is being submitted in person, no less than 60 days prior to the expiry date of the applicant’s visa and if the visa was issued for less than 30 days, not later than seven working days before the expiry of the visa.
• A statement or documentation detailing the purpose and duration of the visit
• A valid return air flight ticket or proof of reservation thereof
• Proof of sufficient financial means

In addition to the general requirements of a temporary residence visa, the following additional documents will be required, in respect of the renewal of a visitor's visa for a period exceeding three months

• Valid passport which expires in no less than 30 days after expiry of the intended date of departure from the Republic
• The application is being submitted in person, no less than 60 days prior to the expiry date of the applicant’s visa and if the visa was issued for less than 30 days, not later than seven working days before the expiry of the visa.
• A medical report.
• A radiological report. Provided that a radiological report shall not be required in respect of children under the age of 12 years or pregnant women;
• Proof of a valid air flight ticket or proof of reservation thereof
• Proof of sufficient financial means
• A South African Police Clearance certificate where the applicant has been resident in the Republic for 12 months and longer

In addition to the general requirements of a temporary residence visa, the following additional documents will be required, in respect of an applicant who is the spouse or dependent child of the holder of a visa issued in terms of section 11, 13, 14, 15, 17, 18, 19, 20 or 22 of the Act

• Certified copy of the valid visa of the person who is being accompanied by the applicant
• Written undertaking of financial responsibility for the applicant in terms of regulation 11(4)(a) by the person being accompanied

In addition to the general requirements of a temporary residence visa, the following additional documents will be required, in respect of a teacher at an international school

• Contract of employment signed by the employer and the applicant in terms of regulation 11(4)(b)
• Written undertaking of financial responsibility for the applicant

In addition to the general requirements of a temporary residence visa, the following additional documents will be required, in respect of a person involved in the production of a film or advertisement in the Republic

• Documentation confirming such production and the duration thereof

In addition to the general requirements of a temporary residence visa, the following additional documents will be required, in respect of a foreign journalist seconded to the Republic by a foreign news agency

• Documentation confirming such secondment and the duration thereof

In addition to the general requirements of a temporary residence visa, the following additional documents will be required, in respect of a visiting professor or lecturer

• An invitation from the host in the Republic

In addition to the general requirements of a temporary residence visa, the following additional documents will be required, in respect of artists who wish to write, paint or sculpt

• A portfolio of his or her previous work

In addition to the general requirements of a temporary residence visa, the following additional documents will be required, in respect of a person involved in the entertainment industry who is travelling through the Republic to perform

• Confirmation thereof by the host in the Republic

In addition to the general requirements of a temporary residence visa, the following additional documents will be required, in respect of a tour leader or host of a tour

• contract of employment signed by the employer and the applicant
• A written undertaking of financial responsibility for the applicant

In addition to the general requirements of a temporary residence visa, the following additional documents will be required, in respect of a foreigner who is required to stay in the Republic in order to testify as a state witness in a criminal court case

• A written request signed by the Deputy Director of Public Prosecutions

Notes: No person holding a visitor's visa may apply for a change of status to his or her visa while in the Republic, unless under exceptional circumstances set out below:

1. is in need of emergency lifesaving medical treatment for longer than three months;
   
2. is an accompanying spouse or child of a holder of the business or work visa, who wishes to apply for a study or work visa;
   
3. be that the holder's continued stay in the Republic is required for any purpose related to a criminal trial in the Republic: Provided that such application shall be initiated by the relevant Deputy Director of Public Prosecutions and addressed to the Director-General.

Processing Time

• Applications are assessed individually and time frames may vary, therefore you are kindly requested to wait until a decision on your application is taken and is ready for collection, as VFS Global cannot control or influence the processing times in any way.

You can track your application online on VFS Global website to determine status of your application.

Visa fees

All fees are inclusive of VAT and to be paid in South African Rand. Above listed fees are non-refundable once the application is received by VFS Global and Department of Home Affairs.

Once all supporting documentation is available as per the documentary checklist kindly proceed to complete the online application form.

You will be required to pre-pay a minimum amount of R1550 in order to secure and schedule your appointment online.

Payment to secure your online appointment can be made in three methods:

• Online payment via Debit/Credit card through the secure online portal
• Pre-payment at Standard Bank by downloading and completing the online generated bank receipt and depositing the cash into the nearest Standard Bank
• EFT payment through the secure online portal

Note- When selecting the pre-payment option, after payment has been done you are required to visit your online application form after 3 working days to proceed to schedule your appointment.

DHA payments and Value addued services can be paid at the Visa Application Centre if not done before appointment scheduling.

Overview

Study permits are valid for the duration of the course for which they are issued, alternatively 36 months for school and 24 months for other institutions.

As a holder of a study permit you may also apply for permission to work for the purposes of getting work experience, as part of your studies to obtain a diploma or degree by submitting:

• an offer to do practical training
• consent from the educational institution
• proof that your are still a registered student

The Department’s consent to get practical training as part of your studies is issued free of charge provided that you are a registered student and that your study permit remains valid for the entire duration of the training period.

Alternatively, as a foreigner studying at a higher educational institution with a valid study permit, you may work part-time for no more than 20 hours per week. However, you may not work during academic vacations.

The overriding consideration in processing applications for study permits are that:

• No foreigner may displace a South African citizen/resident at a local educational institution
• The student must have proof of sufficient funds to pay for day-to-day living expenses, accommodation as well as tuition fees during his/her stay in South Africa
• The student must have adequate medical cover with a registered South African medical scheme and proof thereof

Documents Required

• Duly completed online form. Handwritten forms will not be accepted by Department of Home Affairs.
• Valid passport which expires in no less than 30 days after expiry of the intended date of departure from the Republic
• The application is being submitted in person, no less than 60 days prior to the expiry date of the applicant’s visa and if the visa was issued for less than 30 days, not later than seven working days before the expiry of the visa.
• A yellow fever vaccination certificate if that person travelled or intends travelling from or transiting through a yellow fever endemic area: (Provided that the certificate shall not be required where that person travelled or intends travelling in direct transit through such area)
• Original Police clearance certificate issued by the police or security authority in each country where the relevant applicant resided for 12 months or longer after attaining the age of 18 years except for South Africa, in respect of criminal records or the character of that applicant, which certificate shall not be older than six months at the time of its submission: (Provided that the certificate shall not be required from a foreign country in the case of renewal or extension of a visa)
• A police clearance certificate shall only be required from the police or security authority in each country where the applicant, after having attained the age of 18 years, has resided for 12 months or longer during the five years immediately preceding the date of application
• Biometric enrolment fee applicable: Yes
• A medical report not older than 6 months
• A radiological report. Provided that a radiological report shall not be required in respect of children under the age of 12 years or pregnant women;
• Marriage certificate or in the case of a foreign spousal relationship, proof of official recognition thereof issued by the authorities of the foreign country of the applicant (where applicable).
• The affidavit where a spousal relationship to a South African citizen or resident is applicable, as well as documentation proving cohabitation and the extent to which the related financial responsibilities are shared by the parties and setting out the particulars of children in the spousal relationship.
• Divorce decree, where applicable.
• Court order granting full or specific parental responsibilities and rights, where applicable.
• Death certificate, in respect of late spouse, where applicable.
• Written consent from both parents and full parental responsibilities, where applicable.
• Proof of adoption where applicable.
• Legal separation order, where applicable.
• An official letter confirming provisional acceptance or acceptance at that learning institution and the duration of the course.
• An undertaking by the Registrar or Principal of the learning institution to-
1. provide proof of registration as contemplated in the relevant legislation within 60 days of registration; or
2. In the event of failure to register by the closing date, provide the Director-General with a notification of failure to register within 7 days of the closing date of registration;
3. Within 30 days, notify the Director-General that the applicant is no longer registered with such institution; and
4. Within 30 days, notify the Director-General when the applicant has completed his or her studies or requires to extend such period of study
• Proof of payment of the applicable fee

In addition to the above requirements, in the case of a foreign state accepting responsibility for the applicant in terms of a bilateral agreement:

• A written undertaking from such foreign state to pay for the departure of the applicant.
• An official letter confirming provisional acceptance or acceptance at that learning institution and the duration of the course.
• An undertaking by the Registrar or Principal of the learning institution to-

1. provide proof of registration as contemplated in the relevant legislation within 60 days of registration; or
2. In the event of failure to register by the closing date, provide the Director-General with a notification of failure to register within 7 days of the closing date of registration;
3. Within 30 days, notify the Director-General that the applicant is no longer registered with such institution; and
4. Within 30 days, notify the Director-General when the applicant has completed his or her studies or requires to extend such period of study

In addition to the above requirements, in the case of a learner under the age of 18 years-

1. an unabridged birth certificate;
2. a valid passport;
3. proof of physical address and contact number of the adult person residing in the Republic, who is acting or has accepted to act as such learner's guardian, including a confirmatory letter from that guardian; and
4. proof of consent for the intended stay from both parents, or where applicable, from the parent or legal guardian who has been issued with a court order granting full or specific parental responsibilities and rights or legal guardianship of the learner.

• Proof of medical cover renewed annually for the period of study with a medical scheme registered in terms of the Medical Schemes Act.
• An undertaking by the parents or legal guardian that the learner will have medical cover for the full duration of the period of study
• Proof of sufficient financial means available to the learner whilst resident in the Republic.

Notes:

• In respect of an application by a person who is a learner under the age of 18 years and is a dependent child of the holder of a visa issued in terms of section 11, 13, 14, 15, 17, 18, 19, 20 or 22 of the Act, a certified copy of such holder's visa and a written undertaking by parents or legal guardian that the learner will have medical cover for the full duration of the period of study shall be required.

• Where the learner is under the age of 18 years and is a dependent child of the holder of a visa issued in terms of section 11, 13, 14, 15, 17, 18, 19, 20 or 22 of the Act, there is no need for a separate medical aid membership for the applicant where proof exists that the learner is a registered dependent on a medical scheme of a holder of a valid visa.

• If the applicant for a study visa is the main applicant and is not accompanying a holder of a valid visa issued in terms of section 11, 13, 14, 15, 17, 18, 19, 20 or 22 of the Act, then proof of medical cover renewed annually for the period of study with a medical scheme registered in terms of the South African Medical Schemes Act shall be required.

• Visas issued for studies at a learning institution, other than a school contemplated in section 1 of the South African Schools Act, 1996 (Act No. 84 of 1996), shall be issued for the duration of the course for which the applicant has registered;

• Visas issued for studies at a learning institution, which is a school contemplated in section 1 of the South African Schools Act, 1996 (Act No. 84 of 1996), shall be valid for the duration of the period of study: Provided that the study visa issued for studies at a primary school shall not exceed eight years and for a secondary school shall not exceed six years.

• However, any visa issued for studies at all learning institutions to a learner who is a dependent child of the holder of a visa issued in terms of section 11, 13, 14, 15, 17, 18, 19, 20 or 22 of the Act, shall NOT be issued longer than the validity period of the visa issued to the accompanied parent or accompanied holder of the section 11, 13, 14, 15, 17, 18, 19, 20 or 22 visa of the Act.

STUDY VISA RENEWAL

• Duly completed online form. Handwritten forms will not be accepted by Department of Home Affairs.
• Valid passport which expires in no less than 30 days after expiry of the intended date of departure from the Republic
• The application is being submitted in person, no less than 60 days prior to the expiry date of the applicant’s visa and if the visa was issued for less than 30 days, not later than seven working days before the expiry of the visa.
• A yellow fever vaccination certificate if that person travelled or intends travelling from or transiting through a yellow fever endemic area: (Provided that the certificate shall not be required where that person travelled or intends travelling in direct transit through such area)
• Original Police clearance certificate issued by the police or security authority in each country where the relevant applicant resided for 12 months or longer after attaining the age of 18 years except for South Africa, in respect of criminal records or the character of that applicant, which certificate shall not be older than six months at the time of its submission: (Provided that the certificate shall not be required from a foreign country in the case of renewal or extension of a visa)
• A police clearance certificate shall only be required from the police or security authority in each country where the applicant, after having attained the age of 18 years, has resided for 12 months or longer during the five years immediately preceding the date of application
• Biometric enrolment fee applicable: Yes
• A medical report not older than 6 months
• Marriage certificate or in the case of a foreign spousal relationship, proof of official recognition thereof issued by the authorities of the foreign country of the applicant (where applicable).
• The affidavit where a spousal relationship to a South African citizen or resident is applicable, as well as documentation proving cohabitation and the extent to which the related financial responsibilities are shared by the parties and setting out the particulars of children in the spousal relationship.
• Divorce decree, where applicable.
• Court order granting full or specific parental responsibilities and rights, where applicable.
• Death certificate, in respect of late spouse, where applicable.
• Written consent from both parents and full parental responsibilities, where applicable.
• Proof of adoption where applicable.
• Legal separation order, where applicable.
• An official letter confirming provisional acceptance or acceptance at that learning institution and the duration of the course.
• An undertaking by the Registrar or Principal of the learning institution to-
1. provide proof of registration as contemplated in the relevant legislation within 60 days of registration; or
2. In the event of failure to register by the closing date, provide the Director-General with a notification of failure to register within 7 days of the closing date of registration;
3. Within 30 days, notify the Director-General that the applicant is no longer registered with such institution; and
4. Within 30 days, notify the Director-General when the applicant has completed his or her studies or requires to extend such period of study
• Proof of payment of the applicable fee
• An official letter from the Registrar or Principal of the learning institution confirming that the
1. Applicant is required to extend his or her period of study and the duration of such study.
2. An undertaking by the parents or legal guardian that the learner will have medical cover for the full duration of the period of study
• In the case of a minor (i.e. a person under 18):

1. proof of physical address -and contact number of the adult person residing in the Republic, who is acting or has accepted to act as such learner's guardian, including a confirmatory letter from that guardian; and
2. proof of consent for the intended stay from both parents or, where applicable, from the parent or legal guardian, who has been issued with a court order granting full or specific parental responsibilities and rights or legal guardianship of the learner.

• In the case of a foreign state accepting responsibility for the applicant in terms of a bilateral agreement:

1. a written undertaking from such foreign state to pay for the departure of the applicant.
• Proof of medical cover with a medical scheme registered in terms of the Medical Schemes Act, 1998 (Act No 131 of 1998).
• Proof of sufficient financial means.
• Proof of payment of the applicable fee

Notes:

• In respect of an application by a person who is a learner under the age of 18 years and is a dependent child of the holder of a visa issued in terms of section 11, 13, 14, 15, 17, 18, 19, 20 or 22 of the Act, a certified copy of such holder's visa and a written undertaking by parents or legal guardian that the learner will have medical cover for the full duration of the period of study shall be required.

• Where the learner is under the age of 18 years and is a dependent child of the holder of a visa issued in terms of section 11, 13, 14, 15, 17, 18, 19, 20 or 22 of the Act, there is no need for a separate medical aid membership for the applicant where proof exists that the learner is a registered dependent on a medical scheme of a holder of a valid visa.

• If the applicant for a study visa is the main applicant and is not accompanying a holder of a valid visa issued in terms of section 11, 13, 14, 15, 17, 18, 19, 20 or 22 of the Act, then proof of medical cover renewed annually for the period of study with a medical scheme registered in terms of the South African Medical Schemes Act shall be required.

• Visas issued for studies at a learning institution, other than a school contemplated in section 1 of the South African Schools Act, 1996 (Act No. 84 of 1996), shall be issued for the duration of the course for which the applicant has registered;

• Visas issued for studies at a learning institution, which is a school contemplated in section 1 of the South African Schools Act, 1996 (Act No. 84 of 1996), shall be valid for the duration of the period of study: Provided that the study visa issued for studies at a primary school shall not exceed eight years and for a secondary school shall not exceed six years.
• However, any visa issued for studies at all learning institutions to a learner who is a dependent child of the holder of a visa issued in terms of section 11, 13, 14, 15, 17, 18, 19, 20 or 22 of the Act, shall NOT be issued longer than the validity period of the visa issued to the accompanied parent or accompanied holder of the section 11, 13, 14, 15, 17, 18, 19, 20 or 22 visa of the Act.

Processing Time

• Applications are assessed individually and time frames may vary, therefore you are kindly requested to wait until a decision on your application is taken and is ready for collection, as VFS Global cannot control or influence the processing times in any way.

You can track your application online on VFS Global website to determine status of your application.

Visa fees

All fees are inclusive of VAT and to be paid in South African Rand. Above listed fees are non-refundable once the application is received by VFS Global and Department of Home Affairs.

Once all supporting documentation is available as per the documentary checklist kindly proceed to complete the online application form.

You will be required to pre-pay a minimum amount of R1550 in order to secure and schedule your appointment online.

Payment to secure your online appointment can be made in three methods:

• Online payment via Debit/Credit card through the secure online portal
• Pre-payment at Standard Bank by downloading and completing the online generated bank receipt and depositing the cash into the nearest Standard Bank
• EFT payment through the secure online portal

Note- When selecting the pre-payment option, after payment has been done you are required to visit your online application form after 3 working days to proceed to schedule your appointment.

DHA payments and Value addued services can be paid at the Visa Application Centre if not done before appointment scheduling.

Overview

Exchange permits may be issued to foreigners who are not older than 25 years of age and wish to participate in cultural, economic or social exchange programmes administered by an organ of the State or a public higher educational institution in conjunction with an organ of a foreign state.

Documents Required

• Duly completed online form. Handwritten forms will not be accepted by Department of Home Affairs.
• Passport valid for no less than 30 calendar days after expiry of the intended visit.
• A medical report.
• A radiological report.
• Marriage certificate or in the case of a foreign spousal relationship, proof of official recognition thereof issued by the authorities of the foreign country of the applicant (where applicable).
• The affidavit where a spousal relationship to a South African citizen or resident is applicable as well as documentation proving cohabitation and the extent to which the related financial responsibilities are shared by the parties and setting out the particulars of children in the spousal relationship.
• Proof of a union recognised in terms of the Recognition of Customary Marriages Act, 1998 (Act No. 120 of 1998), where applicable.
• Divorce decree, where applicable.
• Proof of court order awarding custody, where applicable.
• Death certificate, in respect of late spouse, where applicable.
• Written consent from both parents and/or sole custody parent, where applicable, with proof of sole custody.
• Proof of legal adoption where applicable.
• Legal separation order, where applicable.
• Original Police clearance certificate issued by the police or security authority in each country where the relevant applicant resided for 12 months or longer after attaining the age of 18 years except for South Africa, in respect of criminal records or the character of that applicant, which certificate shall not be older than six months at the time of its submission: (Provided that the certificate shall not be required from a foreign country in the case of renewal or extension of a visa)
• A police clearance certificate shall only be required from the police or security authority in each country where the applicant, after having attained the age of 18 years, has resided for 12 months or longer during the five years immediately preceding the date of application
• South African police clearance will be validated upon biometric enrolment at the VFS center effective as of 01 October 2016 at a fee of R175 (Inclusive of Vat) Per Applicant
• Biometric enrolment fee applicable: Yes
• a yellow fever vaccination certificate if that person travelled or intends travelling from or transiting through a yellow fever endemic area: (Provided that the certificate shall not be required where that person travelled or intends travelling in direct transit through such area)
• Proof of payment of the applicable fee

In addition to the above requirements, in the case of a learning institution in the Republic, in conjunction with a foreign education and training institution or a foreign state institution organising or administering the programme, submit a letter from:

• proof of a valid return air flight ticket or written undertaking by the organ of state or learning institution accepting responsibility for the return or deportation costs of the applicant, as the case may be
• proof of medical cover for the duration of the exchange period with a medical scheme registered in terms of the Medical Schemes Act.
• the Department of Basic Education or Higher Education and Training or a learning institution in the Republic confirming that it is responsible for organising or administering the existence of the programme, outlining the activities, terms and conditions and duration thereof and accepting full responsibility for the student while he or she is in the Republic; and
• the foreign state institution or education and training institution confirming the particulars of the applicant, the applicant's enrolment with the foreign education and training institution, and the date on which the programme shall commence.

In addition to the above requirements, in the case of a programme of cultural, economic or social exchange organised or administered by an organ of state or a learning institution, in conjunction with a foreign education and training institution or a foreign state institution, submit a letter from:

• proof of a valid return air flight ticket or written undertaking by the organ of state or learning institution accepting responsibility for the return or deportation costs of the applicant, as the case may be
• Proof of medical cover for the duration of the exchange period with a medical scheme registered in terms of the Medical Schemes Act.
• The organ of state or foreign education and training institution confirming the existence of the exchange programme; or
• The foreign education and training institution confirming the enrolment of the applicant or the foreign state institution conducting the programme, as the case may be.

In addition to the above requirements, in the case of a foreigner who is under 25 years of age and has received an offer to conduct work for no longer than one year

• Proof of a valid return air flight ticket or written undertaking by the employer accepting responsibility for the return or deportation costs of the applicant, as the case may be
• Proof of medical cover for the duration of the exchange period with a medical scheme registered in terms of the Medical Schemes Act.
• A written undertaking by the employer to—
1. Pay such foreigner remuneration which complies with applicable legal requirements;
2. Provide for the welfare and the needs of such foreigner while in the Republic under the aforesaid visa; and
3. report to the Director-General the failure of the foreigner to comply with the terms of his or her visa or to depart when so required;

EXCHANGE VISA - RENEWAL

• Duly completed online form. Handwritten forms will not be accepted by Department of Home Affairs.
• Passport valid for no less than 30 calendar days after expiry of the intended visit.
• A medical report.
• A radiological report.
• Marriage certificate or in the case of a foreign spousal relationship, proof of official recognition thereof issued by the authorities of the foreign country of the applicant (where applicable).
• The affidavit where a spousal relationship to a South African citizen or resident is applicable as well as documentation proving cohabitation and the extent to which the related financial responsibilities are shared by the parties and setting out the particulars of children in the spousal relationship.
• Proof of a union recognised in terms of the Recognition of Customary Marriages Act, 1998 (Act No. 120 of 1998), where applicable.
• Divorce decree, where applicable.
• Proof of court order awarding custody, where applicable.
• Death certificate, in respect of late spouse, where applicable.
• Written consent from both parents and/or sole custody parent, where applicable, with proof of sole custody.
• Proof of legal adoption where applicable.
• Legal separation order, where applicable.
• Original Police clearance certificate issued by the police or security authority in each country where the relevant applicant resided for 12 months or longer after attaining the age of 18 years except for South Africa, in respect of criminal records or the character of that applicant, which certificate shall not be older than six months at the time of its submission: (Provided that the certificate shall not be required from a foreign country in the case of renewal or extension of a visa)
• A police clearance certificate shall only be required from the police or security authority in each country where the applicant, after having attained the age of 18 years, has resided for 12 months or longer during the five years immediately preceding the date of application
• South African police clearance will be validated upon biometric enrolment at the VFS center effective as of 01 October 2016 at a fee of R175 (Inclusive of Vat) Per Applicant
• Biometric enrolment fee applicable: Yes
• a yellow fever vaccination certificate if that person travelled or intends travelling from or transiting through a yellow fever endemic area: (Provided that the certificate shall not be required where that person travelled or intends travelling in direct transit through such area)
• Proof of payment of the applicable fee

In addition to the above requirements, in the case of a learning institution in the Republic, in conjunction with a foreign education and training institution or a foreign state institution organising or administering the programme, submit a letter from:

• Proof of a valid return air flight ticket or written undertaking by the organ of state or learning institution accepting responsibility for the return or deportation costs of the applicant, as the case may be
• Proof of medical cover for the duration of the exchange period with a medical scheme registered in terms of the Medical Schemes Act.
• the Department of Basic Education or Higher Education and Training or a learning institution in the Republic confirming that it is responsible for organising or administering the existence of the programme, outlining the activities, terms and conditions and duration thereof and accepting full responsibility for the student while he or she is in the Republic; and
• the foreign state institution or education and training institution confirming the particulars of the applicant, the applicant's enrolment with the foreign education and training institution, and the date on which the programme shall commence.

In addition to the above requirements, in the case of a programme of cultural, economic or social exchange, organised or administered by an organ of state or a learning institution, in conjunction with a foreign education and training institution or a foreign state institution, submit a letter from:

• Proof of a valid return air flight ticket or written undertaking by the organ of state or learning institution accepting responsibility for the return or deportation costs of the applicant, as the case may be
• Proof of medical cover for the duration of the exchange period with a medical scheme registered in terms of the Medical Schemes Act.
• The organ of state or foreign education and training institution confirming the existence of the exchange programme; or
• The foreign education and training institution confirming the enrolment of the applicant or the foreign state institution conducting the programme, as the case may be.

In addition to the above requirements, in the case of a foreigner who is under 25 years of age and has received an offer to conduct work for no longer than one year

• Proof of a valid return air flight ticket or written undertaking by the employer accepting responsibility for the return or deportation costs of the applicant, as the case may be
• Proof of medical cover for the duration of the exchange period with a medical scheme registered in terms of the Medical Schemes Act.
• A written undertaking by the employer to—
1. Pay such foreigner remuneration which complies with applicable legal requirements;
2. Provide for the welfare and the needs of such foreigner while in the Republic under the aforesaid visa; and
3. Report to the Director-General the failure of the foreigner to comply with the terms of his or her visa or to depart when so required;

Processing Time

• Applications are assessed individually and time frames may vary, therefore you are kindly requested to wait until a decision on your application is taken and is ready for collection, as VFS Global cannot control or influence the processing times in any way.

You can track your application online on VFS Global website to determine status of your application.

Visa fees

All fees are inclusive of VAT and to be paid in South African Rand. Above listed fees are non-refundable once the application is received by VFS Global and Department of Home Affairs.

Once all supporting documentation is available as per the documentary checklist kindly proceed to complete the online application form.

You will be required to pre-pay a minimum amount of R1550 in order to secure and schedule your appointment online.

Payment to secure your online appointment can be made in three methods:

• Online payment via Debit/Credit card through the secure online portal
• Pre-payment at Standard Bank by downloading and completing the online generated bank receipt and depositing the cash into the nearest Standard Bank
• EFT payment through the secure online portal

Note- When selecting the pre-payment option, after payment has been done you are required to visit your online application form after 3 working days to proceed to schedule your appointment.

DHA payments and Value addued services can be paid at the Visa Application Centre if not done before appointment scheduling.

Overview

Visitors visa section 11(1)(b)(iii) for research activities (exceeding 3 months to 3 years)

Documents Required

• Duly completed online form. Handwritten forms will not be accepted by Department of Home Affairs.
• Valid passport which expires in no less than 30 days after expiry of the intended date of departure from the Republic in terms of regulation 9(1)(a)

• The application is being submitted in person, no less than 60 days prior to the expiry date of the applicant’s visa and if the visa was issued for less than 30 days, not later than seven working days before the expiry of the visa.
• A valid return air flight ticket or proof of reservation thereof
• The proof of sufficient available financial resources contemplated in section 11(1)(b) of the Act in the form of a recently bank certified statement, for the last three months.
• A medical report.
• A radiological report. Provided that a radiological report shall not be required in respect of children under the age of 12 years or pregnant women;
• in respect of dependent children accompanying the applicant or joining the applicant in the Republic, proof of parental responsibilities and rights or written consent in the form of an affidavit from the other parent or legal guardian, as the case may be
• in respect of a spouse accompanying the applicant or joining the applicant in the Republic, a copy of a marriage certificate or proof of a relationship as contemplated in regulation 3;
• Statement or documentation detailing the purpose and duration of the visit in terms of regulation 11(1)(a)
• In respect of dependent children accompanying the applicant to or joining the applicant in the Republic, be accompanied by:
1. proof of consent from one or both parents or legal guardian, as the case may be, in the form of a letter or affidavit;
2. where applicable, a copy of a court order granting the applicant parental responsibilities and rights in respect of the child;
3. a letter from the person who is to receive the child in the Republic, containing his or her residential address in the Republic where the child will be residing;
4. a copy of the identity document or valid passport and visa or permanent residence permit of the person who is to receive the child in the Republic; and
5. the contact details of the parents or legal guardian;
• Where the application is for the attendance of an activity or event, include a letter from the organisation under whose control the activity or event will take place, confirming such attendance and whether or not the foreigner will be remunerated, and if remunerated, the amount of the remuneration.
• A yellow fever vaccination certificate if that person travelled or intends travelling from or transiting through a yellow fever endemic area: (Provided that the certificate shall not be required where that person travelled or intends travelling in direct transit through such area)
• The affidavit where a spousal relationship to a South African citizen or resident is applicable as well as documentation proving cohabitation and the extent to which the related financial responsibilities are shared by the parties and setting out the particulars of children in the spousal relationship.
• Proof of a union recognised in terms of the Recognition of Customary Marriages Act, 1998 (Act No. 120 of 1998), where applicable.
• Divorce decree, where applicable.
• Death certificate, in respect of late spouse, where applicable.
• Legal separation order, where applicable.
• Proof of payment of the applicable fee
• Original Police clearance certificate issued by the police or security authority in each country where the relevant applicant resided for 12 months or longer after attaining the age of 18 years except for South Africa, in respect of criminal records or the character of that applicant, which certificate shall not be older than six months at the time of its submission: (Provided that the certificate shall not be required from a foreign country in the case of renewal or extension of a visa)
• South African police clearance will be validated upon biometric enrolment at the VFS center effective as of 01 October 2016 at a fee of R175 (Inclusive of Vat) Per Applicant
• Biometric enrolment fee applicable: Yes

Notes: No person holding a visitor's visa may apply for a change of status to his or her visa while in the Republic, unless under exceptional circumstances set out below:

1. is in need of emergency lifesaving medical treatment for longer than three months;
2. is an accompanying spouse or child of a holder of the business or work visa, who wishes to apply for a study or work visa;
3. be that the holder's continued stay in the Republic is required for any purpose related to a criminal trial in the Republic: Provided that such application shall be initiated by the relevant Deputy Director of Public Prosecutions and addressed to the Director-General.

Processing Time

• Applications are assessed individually and time frames may vary, therefore you are kindly requested to wait until a decision on your application is taken and is ready for collection, as VFS Global cannot control or influence the processing times in any way.

You can track your application online on VFS Global website to determine status of your application.

Visa fees

All fees are inclusive of VAT and to be paid in South African Rand. Above listed fees are non-refundable once the application is received by VFS Global and Department of Home Affairs.

Once all supporting documentation is available as per the documentary checklist kindly proceed to complete the online application form.

You will be required to pre-pay a minimum amount of R1550 in order to secure and schedule your appointment online.

Payment to secure your online appointment can be made in three methods:

• Online payment via Debit/Credit card through the secure online portal
• Pre-payment at Standard Bank by downloading and completing the online generated bank receipt and depositing the cash into the nearest Standard Bank
• EFT payment through the secure online portal

Note- When selecting the pre-payment option, after payment has been done you are required to visit your online application form after 3 working days to proceed to schedule your appointment.

DHA payments and Value addued services can be paid at the Visa Application Centre if not done before appointment scheduling.

Overview

A corporate permit allows a corporate entity (e.g. a mine group, farmer, etc.) to employ a pre-determined number of skilled/semi-skilled/unskilled workers. There is no fixed validity period for such permits as the validity period is determined and stipulated by the corporate entity upon application. Applications must be made at a Visa & Permit Facilitation Centre close to applicant’s residence.

Documents Required

• Duly completed online form. Handwritten forms will not be accepted by Department of Home Affairs.
• Proof of the need to employ the requested number of foreigners
• A certificate by the Department of Labour confirming:
1. That despite diligent search, the corporate applicant was unable to find suitable citizens or permanent residents to occupy the position available in the corporate entity;
2. The job description and proposed remuneration in respect of each foreigner;
3. that the salary and benefits of any foreigner employed by the corporate applicant shall not be inferior to the average salary and benefits of citizens or permanent residents occupying similar positions in the Republic (Note: An acknowledgement letter from DoL confirming that this information has been sent to DHA electronically may also be accepted)
• Proof of registration of the corporation with South African Revenue Service
• Proof of registration of the corporation with Unemployment Insurance Fund
• Proof of registration of the corporation with Compensation Fund for Occupational Injuries and Diseases
• Proof of registration of the corporation with Companies and Intellectual Properties Commission (CIPC), where legally required
• an undertaking by the employer to inform the Director-General should any foreign employee not comply with the provisions of the Act or visa conditions or is no longer in the employ of such employer or is employed in a different capacity or role; and
• a written undertaking by the corporate applicant to pay the deportation costs of any foreign employee accepting responsibility for the return costs related to the deportation of the foreign employee, should it be necessary.
• Proof that at least 60% of the total staff complement that are employed in the operations of the business are citizens or permanent residents employed permanently in various positions.
• An undertaking by the corporate applicant giving assurance that:
1. The passport of the foreigner shall be valid at all times;
2. The foreigner shall be employed by the corporate applicant to conduct work for the corporate applicant only in the specific position for which the visa has been issued;
3. Such foreigner departs from the Republic upon completion of his or her contract of employment;
4. Any foreigner employed in terms of the corporate visa at all times complies with the-
1. provisions of the Act; and
2. Terms and conditions of the corporate visa and of the corporate work certificate;
3. The Director-General is immediately notified if there is reason to believe that the foreigner is no longer in compliance with the provisions of the Act; and
4. The financial guarantees by the corporate applicant to defray deportation and other costs should the corporate visa be withdrawn, or certain foreigners fail to leave the Republic when no longer subject to the corporate visa, are complied with.
• Confirmation by the corporate applicant that the application is not for any business undertaking which is listed as undesirable by the Minister from time to time in the Gazette,
• Proof of payment of the applicable fee

CORPORATE WORKER CERTIFICATE

• Duly completed online form. Handwritten forms will not be accepted by Department of Home Affairs.
• Passport valid for no less than 30 calendar days after expiry of the intended visit.
• A medical report.
• A radiological report.
• Marriage certificate or in the case of a foreign spousal relationship, proof of official recognition thereof issued by the authorities of the foreign country of the applicant (where applicable).
• The affidavit where a spousal relationship to a South African citizen or resident is applicable as well as documentation proving cohabitation and the extent to which the related financial responsibilities are shared by the parties and setting out the particulars of children in the spousal relationship.
• Proof of a union recognised in terms of the Recognition of Customary Marriages Act, 1998 (Act No. 120 of 1998), where applicable.
• Divorce decree, where applicable.
• Proof of court order awarding custody, where applicable.
• Death certificate, in respect of late spouse, where applicable.
• Written consent from both parents and/or sole custody parent, where applicable, with proof of sole custody.
• Proof of legal adoption where applicable.
• Legal separation order, where applicable.
• Original Police clearance certificate issued by the police or security authority in each country where the relevant applicant resided for 12 months or longer after attaining the age of 18 years except for South Africa, in respect of criminal records or the character of that applicant, which certificate shall not be older than six months at the time of its submission: (Provided that the certificate shall not be required from a foreign country in the case of renewal or extension of a visa)
• A police clearance certificate shall only be required from the police or security authority in each country where the applicant, after having attained the age of 18 years, has resided for 12 months or longer during the five years immediately preceding the date of application
• Biometric enrolment fee applicable: Yes
• A yellow fever vaccination certificate if that person travelled or intends travelling from or transiting through a yellow fever endemic area: (Provided that the certificate shall not be required where that person travelled or intends travelling in direct transit through such area)
• Copy of the main corporate visa issued to the prospective employer
• Original Corporate Worker Authorization Certificate (Fully completed)
• A valid employment contract
• A written undertaking by the corporate applicant to ensure that the foreigner departs from the Republic upon termination of his or her contract of employment or accepting responsibility for the return or costs related to the deportation of the foreigner should it become necessary

• Proof of qualifications evaluated by SAQA, and translated by a sworn translator into one of the official languages of the Republic, or skills and experience in line with the job offer; and
• A certificate of registration with the professional body, council or board recognised by SAQA in terms of section 13(1)(i) of the National Qualifications Framework Act.
• Proof of payment of the applicable fee

NOTES: A corporate worker may not renew his or her corporate worker certificate or apply for a change of status in the Republic.

Application for a corporate worker certificate in terms of bilateral agreements to employ foreigners partially, mainly or wholly from such foreign countries after issuance of a corporate worker authorization certification in terms of section 21(4)(b) read with regulation 20 and 10

1. A passport valid for no less than 30 days after the expiry date of the intended stay.
2. A full set of fingerprints.
3. A valid employment contract entered into and attested in the worker’s country of origin, for a maximum period of 18 months for Mozambicans and 12 months for workers from Lesotho, Botswana, Swaziland.
4. Corporate Worker Authorization Certificate (Fully completed)
5. Proof of payment, where applicable

Application for a corporate worker certificate for seasonal farm workers after issuance of a corporate worker authorization certificate in terms of section 21(4)(c) read with regulation 20 and 10

1. A passport valid for no less than 30 days after the expiry date of the intended stay.
2. A full set of fingerprints.
3. A valid employment contract, which has been entered into for a maximum period of 12 months.
4. Corporate Worker Authorization Certificate (Fully completed)
5. Proof of payment, where applicable

Processing Time

• Applications are assessed individually and time frames may vary, therefore you are kindly requested to wait until a decision on your application is taken and is ready for collection, as VFS Global cannot control or influence the processing times in any way.

You can track your application online on VFS Global website to determine status of your application.

Visa fees

All fees are inclusive of VAT and to be paid in South African Rand. Above listed fees are non-refundable once the application is received by VFS Global and Department of Home Affairs.

Once all supporting documentation is available as per the documentary checklist kindly proceed to complete the online application form.

You will be required to pre-pay a minimum amount of R1550 in order to secure and schedule your appointment online.

Payment to secure your online appointment can be made in three methods:

• Online payment via Debit/Credit card through the secure online portal
• Pre-payment at Standard Bank by downloading and completing the online generated bank receipt and depositing the cash into the nearest Standard Bank
• EFT payment through the secure online portal

Note- When selecting the pre-payment option, after payment has been done you are required to visit your online application form after 3 working days to proceed to schedule your appointment.

DHA payments and Value addued services can be paid at the Visa Application Centre if not done before appointment scheduling.

Overview

A persons who wish to retire in South Africa may apply for a retired person visa, provided that he or she receives at least R37 000 per month from a pension fund or an irrevocable retirement annuity or has a net worth or a combination of assets realising a minimum monthly income of R37 000.

Documents Required

• Duly completed online form. Handwritten forms will not be accepted by Department of Home Affairs.
• Passport valid for no less than 30 calendar days after expiry of the intended visit.
• A medical report.
• A radiological report.
• Marriage certificate or in the case of a foreign spousal relationship, proof of official recognition thereof issued by the authorities of the foreign country of the applicant (where applicable).
• The affidavit where a spousal relationship to a South African citizen or resident is applicable as well as documentation proving cohabitation and the extent to which the related financial responsibilities are shared by the parties and setting out the particulars of children in the spousal relationship.
• Proof of a union recognised in terms of the Recognition of Customary Marriages Act, 1998 (Act No. 120 of 1998), where applicable.
• Divorce decree, where applicable.
• Proof of court order awarding custody, where applicable.
• Death certificate, in respect of late spouse, where applicable.
• Written consent from both parents and/or sole custody parent, where applicable, with proof of sole custody.
• Proof of legal adoption where applicable.
• Legal separation order, where applicable.
• Original Police clearance certificate issued by the police or security authority in each country where the relevant applicant resided for 12 months or longer after attaining the age of 18 years except for South Africa, in respect of criminal records or the character of that applicant, which certificate shall not be older than six months at the time of its submission: (Provided that the certificate shall not be required from a foreign country in the case of renewal or extension of a visa)
• A police clearance certificate shall only be required from the police or security authority in each country where the applicant, after having attained the age of 18 years, has resided for 12 months or longer during the five years immediately preceding the date of application
• Biometric enrolment fee applicable: Yes
• a yellow fever vaccination certificate if that person travelled or intends travelling from or transiting through a yellow fever endemic area: (Provided that the certificate shall not be required where that person travelled or intends travelling in direct transit through such area)
• the right to a pension or an irrevocable annuity or retirement account which will give such foreigner a prescribed minimum payment of R37 000 per month for the rest of his or her life from the country of his or her origin; or
• a minimum prescribed net worth R37 000 which may include a combination of assets realising per month.
• Proof of payment of the applicable fee

RETIRED PERSON – RENEWAL

• Duly completed online form. Handwritten forms will not be accepted by Department of Home Affairs.
• Passport valid for no less than 30 calendar days after expiry of the intended visit.
• A medical report.
• A radiological report.
• Marriage certificate or in the case of a foreign spousal relationship, proof of official recognition thereof issued by the authorities of the foreign country of the applicant (where applicable).
• The affidavit where a spousal relationship to a South African citizen or resident is applicable as well as documentation proving cohabitation and the extent to which the related financial responsibilities are shared by the parties and setting out the particulars of children in the spousal relationship.
• Proof of a union recognised in terms of the Recognition of Customary Marriages Act, 1998 (Act No. 120 of 1998), where applicable.
• Divorce decree, where applicable.
• Proof of court order awarding custody, where applicable.
• Death certificate, in respect of late spouse, where applicable.
• Written consent from both parents and/or sole custody parent, where applicable, with proof of sole custody.
• Proof of legal adoption where applicable.
• Legal separation order, where applicable.
• Original Police clearance certificate issued by the police or security authority in each country where the relevant applicant resided for 12 months or longer after attaining the age of 18 years except for South Africa, in respect of criminal records or the character of that applicant, which certificate shall not be older than six months at the time of its submission: (Provided that the certificate shall not be required from a foreign country in the case of renewal or extension of a visa)
• A police clearance certificate shall only be required from the police or security authority in each country where the applicant, after having attained the age of 18 years, has resided for 12 months or longer during the five years immediately preceding the date of application
• Biometric enrolment fee applicable: Yes
• A yellow fever vaccination certificate if that person travelled or intends travelling from or transiting through a yellow fever endemic area: (Provided that the certificate shall not be required where that person travelled or intends travelling in direct transit through such area)
• The right to a pension or an irrevocable annuity or retirement account which will give such foreigner a prescribed minimum payment of R37 000 per month for the rest of his or her life from the country of his or her origin; or
• A minimum prescribed net worth of R37 000 which may include a combination of assets, realising per month.
• Proof of payment of the applicable fee

Processing Time

• Applications are assessed individually and time frames may vary, therefore you are kindly requested to wait until a decision on your application is taken and is ready for collection, as VFS Global cannot control or influence the processing times in any way.

You can track your application online on VFS Global website to determine status of your application

Visa fees

All fees are inclusive of VAT and to be paid in South African Rand. Above listed fees are non-refundable once the application is received by VFS Global and Department of Home Affairs.

Once all supporting documentation is available as per the documentary checklist kindly proceed to complete the online application form.

You will be required to pre-pay a minimum amount of R1550 in order to secure and schedule your appointment online.

Payment to secure your online appointment can be made in three methods:

• Online payment via Debit/Credit card through the secure online portal
• Pre-payment at Standard Bank by downloading and completing the online generated bank receipt and depositing the cash into the nearest Standard Bank
• EFT payment through the secure online portal

Note - When selecting the pre-payment option, after payment has been done you are required to visit your online application form after 3 working days to proceed to schedule your appointment.

DHA payments and Value addued services can be paid at the Visa Application Centre if not done before appointment scheduling.

Overview

Foreigners who are contemplating investing in the South African economy by establishing a business or by investing in an existing business in the country must apply for a business permit. As an applicant, you will be required to invest a prescribed financial capital contribution.

The capital requirements above may be reduced or waived in respect of the following types of industries/businesses:

• Information and Communication Technology
• Clothing and textile manufacturing
• Chemicals and bio-technology
• Agro-processing
• Metals and minerals refinement
• Automotive manufacturing
• Tourism
• Crafts

Documents Required

• Duly completed online form. Handwritten forms will not be accepted by Department of Home Affairs.
• Valid passport which expires in no less than 30 days after expiry of the intended date of departure from the Republic
• The application is being submitted in person, no less than 60 days prior to the expiry date of the applicant’s visa and if the visa was issued for less than 30 days, not later than seven working days before the expiry of the visa.
• A yellow fever vaccination certificate if that person travelled or intends travelling from or transiting through a yellow fever endemic area: (Provided that the certificate shall not be required where that person travelled or intends travelling in direct transit through such area)
• Original Police clearance certificate issued by the police or security authority in each country where the relevant applicant resided for 12 months or longer after attaining the age of 18 years except for South Africa, in respect of criminal records or the character of that applicant, which certificate shall not be older than six months at the time of its submission: (Provided that the certificate shall not be required from a foreign country in the case of renewal or extension of a visa)
• A police clearance certificate shall only be required from the police or security authority in each country where the applicant, after having attained the age of 18 years, has resided for 12 months or longer during the five years immediately preceding the date of application
• Biometric enrolment fee applicable: Yes
• A medical report not older than 6 months at the time of submission
• Marriage certificate or in the case of a foreign spousal relationship, proof of official recognition thereof issued by the authorities of the foreign country of the applicant (where applicable).
• The affidavit where a spousal relationship to a South African citizen or resident is applicable, as well as documentation proving cohabitation and the extent to which the related financial responsibilities are shared by the parties and setting out the particulars of children in the spousal relationship.
• Divorce decree, where applicable.
• Court order granting full or specific parental responsibilities and rights, where applicable.
• Death certificate, in respect of late spouse, where applicable.
• Written consent from both parents and full parental responsibilities, where applicable.
• Proof of adoption where applicable.
• Legal separation order, where applicable.
• Proof of payment of the applicable fee
  Additional supporting documents in support of a business visa In respect of a business visa by a foreigner who intends to establish a business or invest in a business that is not yet established in the Republic
• A certificate issued by a chartered accountant registered with the South African Institute of Chartered Accountants or a professional accountant registered with the South African Institute of Professional Accountants to the effect that-
  • At least an amount in cash to be invested in the Republic as determined from time to time by the Minister, after consultation with the Minister of Trade and Industry, by notice in the Gazette, is available; or
  • At least an amount in cash and a capital contribution as determined from time to time by the Minister, after consultation with the Minister of Trade and Industry, by notice in the Gazette is available.
• Undertaking by the applicant that at least 60% of the total staff compliment to be employed in the operations of the business shall be South African citizens or permanent residents employed permanently in various positions: (Provided that proof of compliance with this undertaking shall be submitted within 12 months of issuance of the visa.)
• An undertaking to register with the-
  • South African Revenue Service;
  • Unemployment Insurance Fund;
  • Compensation Fund for Occupational Injuries and Diseases;
  • Companies and Intellectual Properties Commission (CPIC); where legally required, and
  • Relevant professional body, board or council recognised by SAQA in terms of section 13(1)(i) of the National Qualifications Framework Act where applicable: (Provided that upon registration, all certificates shall be submitted to the Director-General)
• A letter of recommendation from the Department of Trade and Industry regarding-
  • The feasibility of the business; and

  • The contribution to the national interest of the Republic

    Additional supporting documents in respect of a business visa application by a foreigner who has established a business or invested in an existing business in the Republic

• A certificate issued by a chartered accountant registered with the South African Institute of Chartered Accountants or a professional accountant registered with the South African Institute of Professional Accountants to the effect that:
  • At least an amount in cash to be invested in the Republic as determined from time to time by the Minister, after consultation with the Minister of Trade and Industry, by notice in the Gazette, is available or already invested; or;
  • At least an amount in cash and a capital contribution as determined from time to time by the Minister, after consultation with the Minister of Trade and Industry, by notice in the Gazette, is available or already invested
• Proof that at least 60% of the total staff complement employed in the operations of the business are South African citizens or permanent residents employed permanently in various positions.
• Proof of registration with the-
  • South African Revenue Service;
  • Unemployment Insurance Fund;
  • Compensation Fund for Occupational Injuries and Diseases;
  • Companies and Intellectual Properties Commission (CPIC), where legally required; and
  • Relevant professional body, board or council recognised by South African Qualifications Authority (SAQA) in terms of section 13(1)(i) of the National Qualifications Framework Act, where applicable.
• A letter of recommendation from the Department of Trade and Industry regarding -
  • The feasibility of the business; and
  • The contribution to the national interest of the Republic.
• A foreigner who invests or has invested in an existing business shall, in addition, submit-
  • Financial statement in respect of the preceding financial year; and
  • Proof of investment

  Business visa renewal

  • Duly completed online form. Handwritten forms will not be accepted by Department of Home Affairs.
  • Valid passport which expires in no less than 30 days after expiry of the intended date of departure from the Republic
  • The application is being submitted in person, no less than 60 days prior to the expiry date of the applicant’s visa and if the visa was issued for less than 30 days, not later than seven working days before the expiry of the visa.
  • A yellow fever vaccination certificate if that person travelled or intends travelling from or transiting through a yellow fever endemic area: (Provided that the certificate shall not be required where that person travelled or intends travelling in direct transit through such area)
  • Original Police clearance certificate issued by the police or security authority in each country where the relevant applicant resided for 12 months or longer after attaining the age of 18 years except for South Africa, in respect of criminal records or the character of that applicant, which certificate shall not be older than six months at the time of its submission: (Provided that the certificate shall not be required from a foreign country in the case of renewal or extension of a visa)
  • A police clearance certificate shall only be required from the police or security authority in each country where the applicant, after having attained the age of 18 years, has resided for 12 months or longer during the five years immediately preceding the date of application
  • Biometric enrolment fee applicable: Yes
  • A medical report not older than 6 months at the time of submission
  • Marriage certificate or in the case of a foreign spousal relationship, proof of official recognition thereof issued by the authorities of the foreign country of the applicant (where applicable).
  • The affidavit where a spousal relationship to a South African citizen or resident is applicable, as well as documentation proving cohabitation and the extent to which the related financial responsibilities are shared by the parties and setting out the particulars of children in the spousal relationship.
  • Divorce decree, where applicable.
  • Court order granting full or specific parental responsibilities and rights, where applicable.
  • Death certificate, in respect of late spouse, where applicable.
  • Written consent from both parents and full parental responsibilities, where applicable.
  • Proof of adoption where applicable.
  • Legal separation order, where applicable.
  • Proof of payment of the applicable fee
  • A certificate issued by a chartered accountant registered with the South African Institute of Chartered Accountants or a professional accountant registered with the South African Institute of Professional Accountants to the effect that-
  • The original cash investment into the book value of the business is still so invested;
• A letter of confirmation from the Department of Labour that at least 60% of the total staff complement employed in the operations of the business are citizens or permanent residents employed permanently in various positions.
• Tax clearance certificate issued by the South African Revenue Service from the date on which the business became operational;
• Proof of contributions made to the Unemployment Insurance Fund;
• Proof of contributions made to the Compensation Fund for Occupational Injuries and Diseases;
• Proof of registration with Companies and Intellectual Properties Commission (CPIC)
• Proof of registration with the professional body, board or council recognised by South African Qualifications Authority (SAQA) in terms of section 13(1)(i) of the National Qualifications Framework Act.
• A letter of recommendation from the Department of Trade and Industry regarding-
  • The continued feasibility of the business; and
  • The contribution to the national interest of the Republic
• Financial statement in respect of the preceding financial year
• A letter of confirmation from the Department of Labour that 60% of the staff compliment employed in the operations of the business are still South African citizens or permanent residents who are employed permanently

Processing Time

• Applications are assessed individually and time frames may vary, therefore you are kindly requested to wait until a decision on your application is taken and is ready for collection, as VFS Global cannot control or influence the processing times in any way.

You can track your application online on VFS Global website to determine status of your application.

Visa fees

All fees are inclusive of VAT and to be paid in South African Rand. Above listed fees are non-refundable once the application is received by VFS Global and Department of Home Affairs.

Once all supporting documentation is available as per the documentary checklist kindly proceed to complete the online application form.

You will be required to pre-pay a minimum amount of R1550 in order to secure and schedule your appointment online.

Payment to secure your online appointment can be made in three methods:

• Online payment via Debit/Credit card through the secure online portal
• Pre-payment at Standard Bank by downloading and completing the online generated bank receipt and depositing the cash into the nearest Standard Bank
• EFT payment through the secure online portal

Note- When selecting the pre-payment option, after payment has been done you are required to visit your online application form after 3 working days to proceed to schedule your appointment.

DHA payments and Value addued services can be paid at the Visa Application Centre if not done before appointment scheduling.

Overview

As an immediate family member of a South African citizen or permanent resident you may be issued a relative's permit once the financial means as contemplated in the Immigration Act, 2002 (Act No. 13 of 2002) have been complied with. Relative’s permits are valid for a minimum period of 24 months and may be extended.

Applications can be made at a Visa & Permit Facilitation Centre close to applicant’s residence. For a spouse and/or a dependent child of a South African citizen or permanent resident the permit is issued free of charge, whilst there is a fee for other relatives wishing to join their family members in South Africa.

Documents Required

Relative’s visa (Spouse)

• Duly completed online form. Handwritten forms will not be accepted by Department of Home Affairs.
• Valid passport which expires in no less than 30 days after expiry of the intended date of departure from the Republic
• The application is being submitted in person, no less than 60 days prior to the expiry date of the applicant’s visa and if the visa was issued for less than 30 days, not later than seven working days before the expiry of the visa.
• A yellow fever vaccination certificate if that person travelled or intends travelling from or transiting through a yellow fever endemic area: (Provided that the certificate shall not be required where that person travelled or intends travelling in direct transit through such area)
• Original Police clearance certificate issued by the police or security authority in each country where the relevant applicant resided for 12 months or longer after attaining the age of 18 years except for South Africa, in respect of criminal records or the character of that applicant, which certificate shall not be older than six months at the time of its submission: (Provided that the certificate shall not be required from a foreign country in the case of renewal or extension of a visa)
• A police clearance certificate shall only be required from the police or security authority in each country where the applicant, after having attained the age of 18 years, has resided for 12 months or longer during the five years immediately preceding the date of application
• Biometric enrolment fee applicable: Yes
• A medical report not older than 6 months
• Marriage certificate or in the case of a foreign spousal relationship, proof of official recognition thereof issued by the authorities of the foreign country of the applicant (where applicable).
• The affidavit where a spousal relationship to a South African citizen or resident is applicable, as well as documentation proving cohabitation and the extent to which the related financial responsibilities are shared by the parties and setting out the particulars of children in the spousal relationship.
• Divorce decree, where applicable.
• Court order granting full or specific parental responsibilities and rights, where applicable.
• Death certificate, in respect of late spouse, where applicable.
• Written consent from both parents and full parental responsibilities, where applicable.
• Proof of adoption where applicable.
• Legal separation order, where applicable.

• Proof of kinship, within the second step, between the applicant and the citizen or permanent resident in the form of-

  a. An unabridged birth certificate; and

  b. Where necessary, paternity test results.

• The financial assurance contemplated in section 18(1) of the Act shall be an amount, per person per month, as determined from time to time by the Minister by notice in the Gazette, to be proven by means of a current salary advice or a certified bank statement not older than three months at the time of application. (Provided that the financial assurance shall not be required where the South African citizen or permanent resident is a dependent child).

• Proof of payment of the applicable fee
  
  In respect of a Relative’s Visa Renewal (Spouse)

• Duly completed online form. Handwritten forms will not be accepted by Department of Home Affairs.
• Valid passport which expires in no less than 30 days after expiry of the intended date of departure from the Republic
• The application is being submitted in person, no less than 60 days prior to the expiry date of the applicant’s visa and if the visa was issued for less than 30 days, not later than seven working days before the expiry of the visa.
• A yellow fever vaccination certificate if that person travelled or intends travelling from or transiting through a yellow fever endemic area: (Provided that the certificate shall not be required where that person travelled or intends travelling in direct transit through such area)
• Original Police clearance certificate issued by the police or security authority in each country where the relevant applicant resided for 12 months or longer after attaining the age of 18 years except for South Africa, in respect of criminal records or the character of that applicant, which certificate shall not be older than six months at the time of its submission: (Provided that the certificate shall not be required from a foreign country in the case of renewal or extension of a visa)
• Biometric enrolment fee applicable: Yes
• A medical report not older than 6 months
• Marriage certificate or in the case of a foreign spousal relationship, proof of official recognition thereof issued by the authorities of the foreign country of the applicant (where applicable).
• The affidavit where a spousal relationship to a South African citizen or resident is applicable, as well as documentation proving cohabitation and the extent to which the related financial responsibilities are shared by the parties and setting out the particulars of children in the spousal relationship.
• Divorce decree, where applicable.
• Court order granting full or specific parental responsibilities and rights, where applicable.
• Death certificate, in respect of late spouse, where applicable.
• Written consent from both parents and full parental responsibilities, where applicable.
• Proof of adoption where applicable.
• Legal separation order, where applicable.

• Proof of kinship, within the second step, between the applicant and the citizen or permanent resident in the form of-

  a. An unabridged birth certificate; and

  b. Where necessary, paternity test results.

• The financial assurance contemplated in section 18(1) of the Act shall be an amount, per person per month, as determined from time to time by the Minister by notice in the Gazette, to be proven by means of a current salary advice or a certified bank statement not older than three months at the time of application. (Provided that the financial assurance shall not be required where the South African citizen or permanent resident is a dependent child).

• Proof of payment of the applicable fee
  
  Relative’s visa (Permanent Homosexual/ Heterosexual Relationship)

• Duly completed online form. Handwritten forms will not be accepted by Department of Home Affairs.
• Valid passport which expires in no less than 30 days after expiry of the intended date of departure from the Republic
• The application is being submitted in person, no less than 60 days prior to the expiry date of the applicant’s visa and if the visa was issued for less than 30 days, not later than seven working days before the expiry of the visa.
• A yellow fever vaccination certificate if that person travelled or intends travelling from or transiting through a yellow fever endemic area: (Provided that the certificate shall not be required where that person travelled or intends travelling in direct transit through such area)
• Original Police clearance certificate issued by the police or security authority in each country where the relevant applicant resided for 12 months or longer after attaining the age of 18 years except for South Africa, in respect of criminal records or the character of that applicant, which certificate shall not be older than six months at the time of its submission: (Provided that the certificate shall not be required from a foreign country in the case of renewal or extension of a visa)
• A police clearance certificate shall only be required from the police or security authority in each country where the applicant, after having attained the age of 18 years, has resided for 12 months or longer during the five years immediately preceding the date of application
• Biometric enrolment fee applicable: Yes
• A medical report.
• Marriage certificate or in the case of a foreign spousal relationship, proof of official recognition thereof issued by the authorities of the foreign country of the applicant (where applicable).
• The affidavit where a spousal relationship to a South African citizen or resident is applicable, as well as documentation proving cohabitation and the extent to which the related financial responsibilities are shared by the parties and setting out the particulars of children in the spousal relationship.
• Divorce decree, where applicable.
• Court order granting full or specific parental responsibilities and rights, where applicable.
• Death certificate, in respect of late spouse, where applicable.
• Written consent from both parents and full parental responsibilities, where applicable.
• Proof of adoption where applicable.
• Legal separation order, where applicable.

• Proof of kinship, within the second step, between the applicant and the citizen or permanent resident in the form of-

  a. An unabridged birth certificate; and

  b. Where necessary, paternity test results.

• The financial assurance contemplated in section 18(1) of the Act shall be an amount, per person per month, as determined from time to time by the Minister by notice in the Gazette, to be proven by means of a current salary advice or a certified bank statement not older than three months at the time of application. (Provided that the financial assurance shall not be required where the South African citizen or permanent resident is a dependent child).
• Notarial agreement signed by both parties attesting that the permanent relationship has existed for at least two years before the date of application for a visa and that the relationship still exists to the exclusion of any other person in terms of regulation 3(2)(a)(i)
• Notarial agreement signed by both parties attesting that neither of the parties is a spouse in an existing marriage or a permanent homosexual or heterosexual relationship in terms of regulation 3(2)(a)(ii)
• Affidavit on Part A of Form 12 confirming the continued existence of the relationship in terms of regulation 3(2)(b)
• Official documents that prove the dissolution of such marriage either by divorce or the death of the other spouse in terms of regulation 3(2)(c)
• Documentation to prove the financial support to each other and the extent to which the related responsibilities are shared by the applicant and his or her spouse in terms of regulation 3(2)(d)
• Financial assurance of R8,500.00 per person per month to be proven by means of a current salary advice or a certified bank statement not older than three months at the time of application in terms of regulation 17(2)

• Proof of payment of the applicable fee
  In addition to the above requirements, in case of a relationship concluded between two foreigners in a foreign country:

• Official recognition of the relationship issued by the relevant authorities of the country concerned in terms of regulation 3(2)(e); if available
  
  In respect of a Relative’s Visa Renewal (Permanent homosexual/ heterosexual relationship)
• Duly completed online form. Handwritten forms will not be accepted by Department of Home Affairs.
• Valid passport which expires in no less than 30 days after expiry of the intended date of departure from the Republic
• The application is being submitted in person, no less than 60 days prior to the expiry date of the applicant’s visa and if the visa was issued for less than 30 days, not later than seven working days before the expiry of the visa.
• A yellow fever vaccination certificate if that person travelled or intends travelling from or transiting through a yellow fever endemic area: (Provided that the certificate shall not be required where that person travelled or intends travelling in direct transit through such area)
• Original Police clearance certificate issued by the police or security authority in each country where the relevant applicant resided for 12 months or longer after attaining the age of 18 years except for South Africa, in respect of criminal records or the character of that applicant, which certificate shall not be older than six months at the time of its submission: (Provided that the certificate shall not be required from a foreign country in the case of renewal or extension of a visa)
• A police clearance certificate shall only be required from the police or security authority in each country where the applicant, after having attained the age of 18 years, has resided for 12 months or longer during the five years immediately preceding the date of application
• Biometric enrolment fee applicable: Yes
• A medical report not older than 6 months
• Marriage certificate or in the case of a foreign spousal relationship, proof of official recognition thereof issued by the authorities of the foreign country of the applicant (where applicable).
• The affidavit where a spousal relationship to a South African citizen or resident is applicable, as well as documentation proving cohabitation and the extent to which the related financial responsibilities are shared by the parties and setting out the particulars of children in the spousal relationship.
• Divorce decree, where applicable.
• Court order granting full or specific parental responsibilities and rights, where applicable.
• Death certificate, in respect of late spouse, where applicable.
• Written consent from both parents and full parental responsibilities, where applicable.
• Proof of adoption where applicable.
• Legal separation order, where applicable.

• Proof of kinship, within the second step, between the applicant and the citizen or permanent resident in the form of-

  a. unabridged birth certificate; and

  b. Where necessary, paternity test results.

• The financial assurance contemplated in section 18(1) of the Act shall be an amount, per person per month, as determined from time to time by the Minister by notice in the Gazette, to be proven by means of a current salary advice or a certified bank statement not older than three months at the time of application. (Provided that the financial assurance shall not be required where the South African citizen or permanent resident is a dependent child).
• Notarial agreement signed by both parties attesting that the permanent relationship has existed for at least two years before the date of application for a visa and that the relationship still exists to the exclusion of any other person in terms of regulation 3(2)(a)(i)
• Notarial agreement signed by both parties attesting that neither of the parties is a spouse in an existing marriage or a permanent homosexual or heterosexual relationship in terms of regulation 3(2)(a)(ii)
• Affidavit on Part A of Form 12 confirming the continued existence of the relationship in terms of regulation 3(2)(b)
• Official documents that prove the dissolution of such marriage either by divorce or the death of the other spouse in terms of regulation 3(2)(c)
• Documentation to prove the financial support to each other and the extent to which the related responsibilities are shared by the applicant and his or her spouse in terms of regulation 3(2)(d)
• Financial assurance of R8 50000 per person per month to be proven by means of a current salary advice or a certified bank statement not older than three months at the time of application in terms of regulation 17(2)

• Proof of payment of the applicable fee
  In addition to the above requirements, in case of a relationship concluded between two foreigners in a foreign country:

• Official recognition of the relationship issued by the relevant authorities of the country concerned in terms of regulation 3(2)(e); if available

  Relative’s visa (Brother / Sister)

• Duly completed online form. Handwritten forms will not be accepted by Department of Home Affairs.
• Valid passport which expires in no less than 30 days after expiry of the intended date of departure from the Republic
• The application is being submitted in person, no less than 60 days prior to the expiry date of the applicant’s visa and if the visa was issued for less than 30 days, not later than seven working days before the expiry of the visa.
• A yellow fever vaccination certificate if that person travelled or intends travelling from or transiting through a yellow fever endemic area: (Provided that the certificate shall not be required where that person travelled or intends travelling in direct transit through such area)
• Original Police clearance certificate issued by the police or security authority in each country where the relevant applicant resided for 12 months or longer after attaining the age of 18 years except for South Africa, in respect of criminal records or the character of that applicant, which certificate shall not be older than six months at the time of its submission: (Provided that the certificate shall not be required from a foreign country in the case of renewal or extension of a visa)
• A police clearance certificate shall only be required from the police or security authority in each country where the applicant, after having attained the age of 18 years, has resided for 12 months or longer during the five years immediately preceding the date of application
• Biometric enrolment fee applicable: Yes
• A medical report not older than 6 months
• Marriage certificate or in the case of a foreign spousal relationship, proof of official recognition thereof issued by the authorities of the foreign country of the applicant (where applicable).
• The affidavit where a spousal relationship to a South African citizen or resident is applicable, as well as documentation proving cohabitation and the extent to which the related financial responsibilities are shared by the parties and setting out the particulars of children in the spousal relationship.
• Divorce decree, where applicable.
• Court order granting full or specific parental responsibilities and rights, where applicable.
• Death certificate, in respect of late spouse, where applicable.
• Written consent from both parents and full parental responsibilities, where applicable.
• Proof of adoption where applicable.
• Legal separation order, where applicable.

• Proof of kinship, within the second step, between the applicant and the citizen or permanent resident in the form of-

  a. An unabridged birth certificate; and

  b. Where necessary, paternity test results.

• The financial assurance contemplated in section 18(1) of the Act shall be an amount, per person per month, as determined from time to time by the Minister by notice in the Gazette, to be proven by means of a current salary advice or a certified bank statement not older than three months at the time of application. (Provided that the financial assurance shall not be required where the South African citizen or permanent resident is a dependent child).

• Proof of payment of the applicable fee
  In respect of a Relative’s Visa Renewal (Brother / Sister)

• Duly completed online form. Handwritten forms will not be accepted by Department of Home Affairs.
• Valid passport which expires in no less than 30 days after expiry of the intended date of departure from the Republic
• The application is being submitted in person, no less than 60 days prior to the expiry date of the applicant’s visa and if the visa was issued for less than 30 days, not later than seven working days before the expiry of the visa.
• A yellow fever vaccination certificate if that person travelled or intends travelling from or transiting through a yellow fever endemic area: (Provided that the certificate shall not be required where that person travelled or intends travelling in direct transit through such area)
• Original Police clearance certificate issued by the police or security authority in each country where the relevant applicant resided for 12 months or longer after attaining the age of 18 years except for South Africa, in respect of criminal records or the character of that applicant, which certificate shall not be older than six months at the time of its submission: (Provided that the certificate shall not be required from a foreign country in the case of renewal or extension of a visa)
• A police clearance certificate shall only be required from the police or security authority in each country where the applicant, after having attained the age of 18 years, has resided for 12 months or longer during the five years immediately preceding the date of application
• Biometric enrolment fee applicable: Yes
• A medical report not older than 6 months
• Marriage certificate or in the case of a foreign spousal relationship, proof of official recognition thereof issued by the authorities of the foreign country of the applicant (where applicable).
• The affidavit where a spousal relationship to a South African citizen or resident is applicable, as well as documentation proving cohabitation and the extent to which the related financial responsibilities are shared by the parties and setting out the particulars of children in the spousal relationship.
• Divorce decree, where applicable.
• Court order granting full or specific parental responsibilities and rights, where applicable.
• Death certificate, in respect of late spouse, where applicable.
• Written consent from both parents and full parental responsibilities, where applicable.
• Proof of adoption where applicable.
• Legal separation order, where applicable.

• Proof of kinship, within the second step, between the applicant and the citizen or permanent resident in the form of-

  a. An unabridged birth certificate; and

  b. Where necessary, paternity test results.

• The financial assurance contemplated in section 18(1) of the Act shall be an amount, per person per month, as determined from time to time by the Minister by notice in the Gazette, to be proven by means of a current salary advice or a certified bank statement not older than three months at the time of application. (Provided that the financial assurance shall not be required where the South African citizen or permanent resident is a dependent child).

• Proof of payment of the applicable fee

  Relative’s visa (Minor / Major Child)

• Duly completed online form. Handwritten forms will not be accepted by Department of Home Affairs.
• Valid passport which expires in no less than 30 days after expiry of the intended date of departure from the Republic
• The application is being submitted in person, no less than 60 days prior to the expiry date of the applicant’s visa and if the visa was issued for less than 30 days, not later than seven working days before the expiry of the visa.
• A yellow fever vaccination certificate if that person travelled or intends travelling from or transiting through a yellow fever endemic area: (Provided that the certificate shall not be required where that person travelled or intends travelling in direct transit through such area)
• Original Police clearance certificate issued by the police or security authority in each country where the relevant applicant resided for 12 months or longer after attaining the age of 18 years except for South Africa, in respect of criminal records or the character of that applicant, which certificate shall not be older than six months at the time of its submission: (Provided that the certificate shall not be required from a foreign country in the case of renewal or extension of a visa)
• A police clearance certificate shall only be required from the police or security authority in each country where the applicant, after having attained the age of 18 years, has resided for 12 months or longer during the five years immediately preceding the date of application
• Biometric enrolment fee applicable: Yes
• A medical report not older than 6 months
• Marriage certificate or in the case of a foreign spousal relationship, proof of official recognition thereof issued by the authorities of the foreign country of the applicant (where applicable).
• The affidavit where a spousal relationship to a South African citizen or resident is applicable, as well as documentation proving cohabitation and the extent to which the related financial responsibilities are shared by the parties and setting out the particulars of children in the spousal relationship.
• Divorce decree, where applicable.
• Court order granting full or specific parental responsibilities and rights, where applicable.
• Death certificate, in respect of late spouse, where applicable.
• Written consent from both parents and full parental responsibilities, where applicable.
• Proof of adoption where applicable.
• Legal separation order, where applicable.

• Proof of kinship, within the second step, between the applicant and the citizen or permanent resident in the form of-

  a. An unabridged birth certificate; and

  b. Where necessary, paternity test results.

• The financial assurance contemplated in section 18(1) of the Act shall be an amount, per person per month, as determined from time to time by the Minister by notice in the Gazette, to be proven by means of a current salary advice or a certified bank statement not older than three months at the time of application. (Provided that the financial assurance shall not be required where the South African citizen or permanent resident is a dependent child).

• Proof of payment of the applicable fee
  In respect of a Relative’s Visa Renewal (Minor / Major Child)

• Duly completed online form. Handwritten forms will not be accepted by Department of Home Affairs.
• Valid passport which expires in no less than 30 days after expiry of the intended date of departure from the Republic
• The application is being submitted in person, no less than 60 days prior to the expiry date of the applicant’s visa and if the visa was issued for less than 30 days, not later than seven working days before the expiry of the visa.
• A yellow fever vaccination certificate if that person travelled or intends travelling from or transiting through a yellow fever endemic area: (Provided that the certificate shall not be required where that person travelled or intends travelling in direct transit through such area)
• Original Police clearance certificate issued by the police or security authority in each country where the relevant applicant resided for 12 months or longer after attaining the age of 18 years except for South Africa, in respect of criminal records or the character of that applicant, which certificate shall not be older than six months at the time of its submission: (Provided that the certificate shall not be required from a foreign country in the case of renewal or extension of a visa)
• A police clearance certificate shall only be required from the police or security authority in each country where the applicant, after having attained the age of 18 years, has resided for 12 months or longer during the five years immediately preceding the date of application
• Biometric enrolment fee applicable: Yes
• A medical report not older than 6 months
• Marriage certificate or in the case of a foreign spousal relationship, proof of official recognition thereof issued by the authorities of the foreign country of the applicant (where applicable).
• The affidavit where a spousal relationship to a South African citizen or resident is applicable, as well as documentation proving cohabitation and the extent to which the related financial responsibilities are shared by the parties and setting out the particulars of children in the spousal relationship.
• Divorce decree, where applicable.
• Court order granting full or specific parental responsibilities and rights, where applicable.
• Death certificate, in respect of late spouse, where applicable.
• Written consent from both parents and full parental responsibilities, where applicable.
• Proof of adoption where applicable.
• Legal separation order, where applicable.

• Proof of kinship, within the second step, between the applicant and the citizen or permanent resident in the form of-

  a. An unabridged birth certificate; and

  b. Where necessary, paternity test results.

• The financial assurance contemplated in section 18(1) of the Act shall be an amount, per person per month, as determined from time to time by the Minister by notice in the Gazette, to be proven by means of a current salary advice or a certified bank statement not older than three months at the time of application. (Provided that the financial assurance shall not be required where the South African citizen or permanent resident is a dependent child).
• Proof of payment of the applicable fee

Processing Time

• Applications are assessed individually and time frames may vary, therefore you are kindly requested to wait until a decision on your application is taken and is ready for collection, as VFS Global cannot control or influence the processing times in any way.

You can track your application online on VFS Global website to determine status of your application.

Visa fees

All fees are inclusive of VAT and to be paid in South African Rand. Above listed fees are non-refundable once the application is received by VFS Global and Department of Home Affairs.

Once all supporting documentation is available as per the documentary checklist kindly proceed to complete the online application form.

You will be required to pre-pay a minimum amount of R1550 in order to secure and schedule your appointment online.

Payment to secure your online appointment can be made in three methods:

• Online payment via Debit/Credit card through the secure online portal
• Pre-payment at Standard Bank by downloading and completing the online generated bank receipt and depositing the cash into the nearest Standard Bank
• EFT payment through the secure online portal

Note- When selecting the pre-payment option, after payment has been done you are required to visit your online application form after 3 working days to proceed to schedule your appointment.

DHA payments and Value addued services can be paid at the Visa Application Centre if not done before appointment scheduling.

Overview

Visitors visa section 11(6) - spouse of a citizen or permanent resident and work

Documents Required

• Duly completed online form. Handwritten forms will not be accepted by Department of Home Affairs.
• Passport copy and current status in the Republic
• Valid passport which expires in no less than 30 days after expiry of the intended date of departure from the Republic in terms of regulation 9(1)(a)
• The application is being submitted in person, no less than 60 days prior to the expiry date of the applicant’s visa and if the visa was issued for less than 30 days, not later than seven working days before the expiry of the visa.
• Original Police clearance certificate issued by the police or security authority in each country where the relevant applicant resided for 12 months or longer after attaining the age of 18 years except for South Africa, in respect of criminal records or the character of that applicant, which certificate shall not be older than six months at the time of its submission: (Provided that the certificate shall not be required from a foreign country in the case of renewal or extension of a visa)
• A police clearance certificate shall only be required from the police or security authority in each country where the applicant, after having attained the age of 18 years, has resided for 12 months or longer during the five years immediately preceding the date of application
• Biometric enrolment fee applicable: Yes
• A medical report - Medical report should not be older than 6 months at the time of submission
• Marriage certificate or in the case of a foreign spousal relationship, proof of official recognition thereof issued by the authorities of the foreign country of the applicant (where applicable).
• The affidavit where a spousal relationship to a South African citizen or resident is applicable as well as documentation proving cohabitation and the extent to which the related financial responsibilities are shared by the parties and setting out the particulars of children in the spousal relationship.
• A yellow fever vaccination certificate if that person travelled or intends travelling from or transiting through a yellow fever endemic area: (Provided that the certificate shall not be required where that person travelled or intends travelling in direct transit through such area)
• Full birth certificates in respect of each dependent child
• Proof of a union recognised in terms of the Recognition of Customary Marriages Act, 1998 (Act No. 120 of 1998), where applicable.
• Divorce decree, where applicable.
• Death certificate, in respect of late spouse, where applicable.
• Legal separation order, where applicable.
• Proof of payment of the applicable fee
• An employment offer where applicable
• Proof of registration of the Business with CIPC and proof of registration with SARS, where applicable
• Proof of provisional acceptance form an Educational Institution where applicable
• Support letter and copy of ID of spouse who is a South African citizen or Permanent resident

Notes: No person holding a visitor's visa may apply for a change of status to his or her visa while in the Republic, unless under exceptional circumstances set out below:

1. is in need of emergency lifesaving medical treatment for longer than three months;
2. is an accompanying spouse or child of a holder of the business or work visa, who wishes to apply for a study or work visa;
3. be that the holder's continued stay in the Republic is required for any purpose related to a criminal trial in the Republic: Provided that such application shall be initiated by the relevant Deputy Director of Public Prosecutions and addressed to the Director-General.
4. Visitor's visa section 11(6) in ONLY issued to a Spouse of a South African citizen or permanent residence holder. Such person must apply for a Visitor's visa section 11(6) to allow him or her to work, study or conduct business. It cannot be issued to any other dependent person (brother, sister, mother, father, etc).

VISITORS VISA SECTION 11(6) RENEWAL -SPOUSE OF A CITIZEN OR PERMANENT RESIDENT

• Duly completed online form. Handwritten forms will not be accepted by Department of Home Affairs.
• Passport copy and current status in the Republic
• Valid passport which expires in no less than 30 days after expiry of the intended date of departure from the Republic in terms of regulation 9(1)(a)
• The application is being submitted in person, no less than 60 days prior to the expiry date of the applicant’s visa and if the visa was issued for less than 30 days, not later than seven working days before the expiry of the visa.
• Original Police clearance certificate issued by the police or security authority in each country where the relevant applicant resided for 12 months or longer after attaining the age of 18 years except for South Africa, in respect of criminal records or the character of that applicant, which certificate shall not be older than six months at the time of its submission: (Provided that the certificate shall not be required from a foreign country in the case of renewal or extension of a visa)
• A police clearance certificate shall only be required from the police or security authority in each country where the applicant, after having attained the age of 18 years, has resided for 12 months or longer during the five years immediately preceding the date of application
• Biometric enrolment fee applicable: Yes
• A medical report - Medical report should not be older than 6 months
• Marriage certificate or in the case of a foreign spousal relationship, proof of official recognition thereof issued by the authorities of the foreign country of the applicant (where applicable).
• The affidavit where a spousal relationship to a South African citizen or resident is applicable as well as documentation proving cohabitation and the extent to which the related financial responsibilities are shared by the parties and setting out the particulars of children in the spousal relationship.
• A yellow fever vaccination certificate if that person travelled or intends travelling from or transiting through a yellow fever endemic area: (Provided that the certificate shall not be required where that person travelled or intends travelling in direct transit through such area)
• Full birth certificates in respect of each dependent child
• Proof of a union recognised in terms of the Recognition of Customary Marriages Act, 1998 (Act No. 120 of 1998), where applicable.
• Divorce decree, where applicable.
• Death certificate, in respect of late spouse, where applicable.
• Legal separation order, where applicable.
• Proof of payment of the applicable fee
• An employment offer where applicable
• Proof of registration of the Business with CIPC and proof of registration with SARS, where applicable
• Proof of provisional acceptance form an Educational Institution where applicable
• Support letter and copy of ID of spouse who is a South African citizen or Permanent resident

Notes: No person holding a visitor's visa may apply for a change of status to his or her visa while in the Republic, unless under exceptional circumstances set out below:

5. is in need of emergency lifesaving medical treatment for longer than three months;
6. is an accompanying spouse or child of a holder of the business or work visa, who wishes to apply for a study or work visa;
7. be that the holder's continued stay in the Republic is required for any purpose related to a criminal trial in the Republic: Provided that such application shall be initiated by the relevant Deputy Director of Public Prosecutions and addressed to the Director-General.
8. Visitor's visa section 11(6) in ONLY issued to a Spouse of a South African citizen or permanent residence holder. Such person must apply for a Visitor's visa section 11(6) to allow him or her to work, study or conduct business. It cannot be issued to any other dependent person (brother, sister, mother, father, etc).

Processing Time

• Applications are assessed individually and time frames may vary, therefore you are kindly requested to wait until a decision on your application is taken and is ready for collection, as VFS Global cannot control or influence the processing times in any way.

You can track your application online on VFS Global website to determine status of your application.

Visa fees

All fees are inclusive of VAT and to be paid in South African Rand. Above listed fees are non-refundable once the application is received by VFS Global and Department of Home Affairs.

Once all supporting documentation is available as per the documentary checklist kindly proceed to complete the online application form.

You will be required to pre-pay a minimum amount of R1550 in order to secure and schedule your appointment online.

Payment to secure your online appointment can be made in three methods:

• Online payment via Debit/Credit card through the secure online portal
• Pre-payment at Standard Bank by downloading and completing the online generated bank receipt and depositing the cash into the nearest Standard Bank
• EFT payment through the secure online portal

Note- When selecting the pre-payment option, after payment has been done you are required to visit your online application form after 3 working days to proceed to schedule your appointment.

DHA payments and Value addued services can be paid at the Visa Application Centre if not done before appointment scheduling.

Overview

Visitors visa section 11(1)(b)(iv) for prescribed activities (exceeding 3 months to 3 years)

Documents Required

• Duly completed online form. Handwritten forms will not be accepted by Department of Home Affairs.
• Valid passport which expires in no less than 30 days after expiry of the intended date of departure from the Republic in terms of regulation 9(1)(a)

• The application is being submitted in person, no less than 60 days prior to the expiry date of the applicant’s visa and if the visa was issued for less than 30 days, not later than seven working days before the expiry of the visa.
• A valid return air flight ticket or proof of reservation thereof
• The proof of sufficient available financial resources contemplated in section 11(1)(b) of the Act in the form of a recently bank certified statement, for the last three months.
• A medical report.
• in respect of dependent children accompanying the applicant or joining the applicant in the Republic, proof of parental responsibilities and rights or written consent in the form of an affidavit from the other parent or legal guardian, as the case may be
• in respect of a spouse accompanying the applicant or joining the applicant in the Republic, a copy of a marriage certificate or proof of a relationship as contemplated in regulation 3;
• Statement or documentation detailing the purpose and duration of the visit in terms of regulation 11(1)(a)
• In respect of dependent children accompanying the applicant to or joining the applicant in the Republic, be accompanied by:
1. proof of consent from one or both parents or legal guardian, as the case may be, in the form of a letter or affidavit;
2. Where applicable, a copy of a court order granting the applicant parental responsibilities and rights in respect of the child;
3. A letter from the person who is to receive the child in the Republic, containing his or her residential address in the Republic where the child will be residing;
4. A copy of the identity document or valid passport and visa or permanent residence permit of the person who is to receive the child in the Republic; and
5. the contact details of the parents or legal guardian;
• Where the application is for the attendance of an activity or event, include a letter from the organisation under whose control the activity or event will take place, confirming such attendance and whether or not the foreigner will be remunerated, and if remunerated, the amount of the remuneration.
• A yellow fever vaccination certificate if that person travelled or intends travelling from or transiting through a yellow fever endemic area: (Provided that the certificate shall not be required where that person travelled or intends travelling in direct transit through such area)
• The affidavit where a spousal relationship to a South African citizen or resident is applicable as well as documentation proving cohabitation and the extent to which the related financial responsibilities are shared by the parties and setting out the particulars of children in the spousal relationship.
• Proof of a union recognised in terms of the Recognition of Customary Marriages Act, 1998 (Act No. 120 of 1998), where applicable.
• Divorce decree, where applicable.
• Death certificate, in respect of late spouse, where applicable.
• Legal separation order, where applicable.
• Proof of payment of the applicable fee
• Original Police clearance certificate issued by the police or security authority in each country where the relevant applicant resided for 12 months or longer after attaining the age of 18 years except for South Africa, in respect of criminal records or the character of that applicant, which certificate shall not be older than six months at the time of its submission: (Provided that the certificate shall not be required from a foreign country in the case of renewal or extension of a visa)
• A police clearance certificate shall only be required from the police or security authority in each country where the applicant, after having attained the age of 18 years, has resided for 12 months or longer during the five years immediately preceding the date of application
• Biometric enrolment fee applicable: Yes

Additional requirements, in respect of an applicant who is the spouse or dependent child of the holder of a visa issued in terms of section 11, 13, 14, 15, 17, 18, 19, 20 or 22 of the Act

• Certified copy of the valid visa of the person who is being accompanied by the applicant
• Written undertaking of financial responsibility for the applicant in terms of regulation 11(4)(a) by the person being accompanied

Additional requirements, in respect of a teacher at an international school

• Contract of employment signed by the employer and the applicant in terms of regulation 11(4)(b)

• Written undertaking of financial responsibility for the applicant

Additional requirements, in respect of a person involved in the production of a film or advertisement in the Republic

• Documentation confirming such production and the duration thereof.

Additional requirements, in respect of a foreign journalist seconded to the Republic by a foreign news agency

• Documentation confirming such secondment and the duration thereof.

Additional requirements, in respect of a visiting professor or lecturer

• An invitation from the host in the Republic.

Additional requirements, in respect of artists who wish to write, paint or sculpt

• A portfolio of his or her previous work.

Additional requirements, in respect of a person involved in the entertainment industry who is travelling through the Republic to perform

• Confirmation thereof by the host in The Republic.

Additional requirements, in respect of a tour leader or host of a tour

• contract of employment signed by the employer and the applicant
• A written undertaking of financial responsibility for the applicant.

Additional requirements, in respect of a foreigner who is required to stay in the Republic in order to testify as a state witness in a criminal court case

• A written request signed by the Deputy Director of Public Prosecutions.

Notes: No person holding a visitor's visa may apply for a change of status to his or her visa while in the Republic, unless under exceptional circumstances set out below:

• is in need of emergency lifesaving medical treatment for longer than three months;
• is an accompanying spouse or child of a holder of the business or work visa, who wishes to apply for a study or work visa;
• be that the holder's continued stay in the Republic is required for any purpose related to a criminal trial in the Republic: Provided that such application shall be initiated by the relevant Deputy Director of Public Prosecutions and addressed to the Director-General.

Processing Time

• Applications are assessed individually and time frames may vary, therefore you are kindly requested to wait until a decision on your application is taken and is ready for collection, as VFS Global cannot control or influence the processing times in any way.

You can track your application online on VFS Global website to determine status of your application.

Visa fees

All fees are inclusive of VAT and to be paid in South African Rand. Above listed fees are non-refundable once the application is received by VFS Global and Department of Home Affairs.

Once all supporting documentation is available as per the documentary checklist kindly proceed to complete the online application form.

You will be required to pre-pay a minimum amount of R1550 in order to secure and schedule your appointment online.

Payment to secure your online appointment can be made in three methods:

• Online payment via Debit/Credit card through the secure online portal
• Pre-payment at Standard Bank by downloading and completing the online generated bank receipt and depositing the cash into the nearest Standard Bank
• EFT payment through the secure online portal

Note- When selecting the pre-payment option, after payment has been done you are required to visit your online application form after 3 working days to proceed to schedule your appointment.

DHA payments and Value addued services can be paid at the Visa Application Centre if not done before appointment scheduling.

Overview

The following administration process applies to transfers and rectifications of visas issued by the Department of Home Affairs. It only applies to valid visas in lost, damaged or stolen passport. It is not applicable to expired passports.

RECTIFICATIONS

The Department of Home Affairs will only accept requests for rectifications in the following instances:

Approved: Visa labels

Names: Where the names of the applicant are incorrectly spelled or are not captured as indicated by the applicant on their application form

Visa category: Where the visa category is incorrectly captured and is not the same as the one applied for by the applicant. The visa label will only be corrected if VFS can confirm and prove that the category as per the checklist on the pdf is correct and the category on the visa label is incorrect.

Reference Nr: Where the application reference number on the visa label is incorrect and does not correspond with the reference number allocated to the applicant on their original visa application form.

Dates: Where the issue date and the expiry date do not correspond, for instance where the validity period of the visa is issued for a period longer than the period prescribed for the category applied for. Eg, a visitor’s visa issued for 4 years

Visa conditions: Where the conditions of a visa are incorrect. For example; where the applicant applied for a work visa which is granted, but has the incorrect name of the employer or the position.

Visa conditions - Secondary activities: Where the conditions on the visa were supposed to have more than one activity. For example; “to continue employment with ABSA bank as a general manager while studying with WITS university”.
The Department will accept a rectification if the visa was issued as “to continue employment with ABSA bank as a general manager” and the applicant requests that the correct secondary activity of study be added.

Note: This will only be done if in the original application this was the full purpose of the application. This rectification does not apply to applicants who wish to add a secondary activity later after receiving the visa.
This service (Rectification) is free of charge. No DHA/VFS fee payable.

VISA TRANSFERS

The Department of Home Affairs will only accept requests for visa transfers in the following instances:
Where the applicant wishes to transfer a temporary residence permit (Issued before June 2014) or temporary residence visa (Issued after June 2014) for any of the following reasons:

• A valid visa in a lost/stolen passport
• A valid visa in a damaged passport
• A valid visa in a full passport (no sufficient pages) – VFS must verify this claim at the time of submission of application at VFC.

The applicant will have to make a new temporary visa transfer application at VFS. This service (Visa Transfer) is NOT free of charge. There is no DHA fee but the VFS fee is payable.

Important Notes:

• The Department will re-issue a new visa label with the SAME expiry date of the visa label in the lost/stolen/damaged passport.
• The Department will not transfer/rectify any visa label which has less than 60 days before it expires.
• No new (additional) days/expiry dates will be given to the applicant.
• The only new information on the new visa label will be the new VFS rectification/transfer reference number, the new passport number and the issue date.
• The visa conditions will remain the same.
• The application must have (where possible) the copy of the visa to be transferred. NO screen dumps from MCS or Track and Trace obtained from DHA Regional Offices or Head Office will be accepted as proof of validity.
• No visa transfer will be made from an expired passport to a new passport, regardless of the expiry date of that visa label, the applicant must submit an application to renew their visa.

GUIDELINES TO THE APPLICANT (NOTE 1)

• If you wish to rectify/transfer a visa issued at a Regional Office of Home Affairs prior to June 2014:

1. The applicant must submit the copy of the written confirmation letter together with VFS Checklist attaching any other document required (such as an affidavit issued at a South African Police Services detailing the reasons for the request).
2. If the written confirmation from DHA is positive, a new visa label with the same expiry date as the lost/damaged/stolen visa will be issued to the new passport. The visa transfer/rectification process should not be used to extend any visa or legal status of the applicant or change the visa category or conditions.

Due to the different time zones and operating hours, it may take longer to verify a visa that was issued abroad. Applicants can expect a slightly longer response time from DHA.

GUIDELINES TO THE APPLICANT (NOTE 2)

• If you wish to rectify/transfer a visa issued through VFS (in South Africa) after June 2014:

1. The applicant must submit a transfer/rectification application directly online and comply with the VFS transfers/rectification checklist.
2. If the application is approved, a new visa label with the same expiry date as the lost/damaged/stolen visa will be issued to the new passport. The visa transfer/rectification process should not be used to extend any visa or legal status of the applicant or change the visa category (except where it is clear that the error was made by the Department).

Please note: The Department will not re-issue any visa labels through VFS for holders of Quota Work Permits as this category has been abolished. The Visa Adjudication System of DHA is not enabled to print visas for Quota Permits. Holders of such are advised to apply for any of the new category of visas that they qualify for or contact the call centre of the Department for advice.

REJECTION LETTERS

Section 8 of The Immigration Act stipulates that an applicant aggrieved by a decision issued by the Department may, within 10 working days from receipt of the Rejection Letter make an application in the prescribed manner to the Director-General for the review or appeal of that decision.

In terms of procedure a negative decision already issued by the Department can only be reviewed by following the Appeal process. No requests for a review of any negative decision will be accepted if it is not submitted as an Appeal. All requests for review of a decision as a result of:

• Mistakes perceived to have been made by the adjudicator
• Where the applicant believes that they have been rejected on a wrong category
• Rejection reasons considered to be wrong by the applicant
• Where the adjudicator claims that one or more supporting documents were not in the application but the applicant insists that the documents were attached
• Any other negative reason not mentioned above

Where there are spelling/typing or material errors in the rejection letter related to the reference number, visa category and names of the applicant, the VFS manager should send an email to the relevant manager at DHA for correction. There is no rectification of the decisions contained in the rejection letter.

“VALID” VISA IN AN EXPIRED PASSPORT

Immigration Regulation 2(3) states that “The period of validity of a passport contemplated in section 9(4)(a) of the Act shall not be less than 30 days after the foreigner's intended date of departure from the Republic”.

A temporary residence visa should not be issued for any validity period that exceeds the expiry date of a passport. A visa issued beyond the expiry date of a passport shall immediately lapse on the same date that the passport expires and will not be transferred to a new passport.

A visa issued with an expiry date beyond that of a passport is considered to have been issued in error and when discovered shall be withdrawn. In terms of section 48 of the Immigration Act 2002, as amended, no illegal foreigner shall be exempt from the provision of this Act or be allowed to sojourn in the Republic on the grounds that “he or she was admitted or allowed to remain in the Republic through error” or misrepresentation or because his or her being an illegal foreigner was undiscovered.

Not with standing anything mentioned above, VFS is advised in the interim to allow applicants who are carrying an expired passport which was endorsed with a visa that expires beyond the passport expiry date to submit applications for visa transfer to a new passport. This is to allow the applicants to have a valid visa endorsed onto a valid passport as defined in Immigration Regulation 2 and to regularize their status properly.

The Department will in the meantime address the issue of expiry dates at the adjudication level in order to prevent the re-occurrence of this error in future.

Documents Required

Transfer supporting documentation required

• Certified copy of the visa to be transferred.
• Certified copy of passport (old)
• Certified copy of passport (New)
• Sworn Affidavit where the old passport and visa are lost or stolen

Rectification supporting documents required

• Certified copy of visa to be rectified.
• Proof / supporting documents for rectification.
• Passport copy / Refugee status Permit.

Medical report

Radiological Report

Processing Time

• Applications are assessed individually and time frames may vary, therefore you are kindly requested to wait until a decision on your application is taken and is ready for collection, as VFS Global cannot control or influence the processing times in any way.

You can track your application online on VFS Global website to determine status of your application.

Visa fees

All fees are inclusive of VAT and to be paid in South African Rand. Above listed fees are non-refundable once the application is received by VFS Global and Department of Home Affairs.

Once all supporting documentation is available as per the documentary checklist kindly proceed to complete the online application form.

You will be required to pre-pay a minimum amount of R1550 in order to secure and schedule your appointment online.

Payment to secure your online appointment can be made in three methods:

• Online payment via Debit/Credit card through the secure online portal
• Pre-payment at Standard Bank by downloading and completing the online generated bank receipt and depositing the cash into the nearest Standard Bank
• EFT payment through the secure online portal

Note- When selecting the pre-payment option, after payment has been done you are required to visit your online application form after 3 working days to proceed to schedule your appointment.

DHA payments and Value addued services can be paid at the Visa Application Centre if not done before appointment scheduling.

Overview

Applicants applying for a permanent residence permit maybe required to have a 5 year continuous work permit in the Republic of South Africa to qualify for permanent residence under 26(a) worker permit. You are also required to have an offer of permanent employment to qualify under this category. Applicants who fall under certain categories (teachers, lecturers etc.) will be required to have a proof of registration with a professional body, board or council in the republic, if applicable.

Documents Required

Family members may apply together with the main applicant.

Note: all documents issued by the issuing authority of the country of origin shall be original or certified copies and where applicable translated into english, which translation shall be certified as a correct translation by a sworn translator.

Applicants must renew their temporary resident visa whilst awaiting the outcome for permanent residence permit

• Vfs appointment letter
• A duly completed DHA-947 form online. Handwritten forms will not be accepted by the Department of Home Affairs.
• Payment of the application fee of R2870. If the application fee was paid to VFS bank account or the mission, an original bank payment receipt, where the application fee was paid using the Electronic Fund Transfer (EFT), receipt for each applicant.
• Present a valid original passport in respect of each applicant and passport photograph for all applicants one year of age and older. A recent, passport-type, full face photograph bearing the names of the applicants on the reverse side thereof. (Machine-type or instant photographs are not acceptable).
• A valid general work visa for temporary sojourn at the time of application in respect of each applicant, if the application is made in the Republic.
• Marriage certificate or proof of relationship in respect of a spouse accompanying the applicant or joining the applicant in the Republic (Islamic marriages entered into within the Republic are not considered).
• Divorce decree to prove the dissolution of a marriage in the case where a party was a spouse in the previous marriage or the death certificate of the deceased spouse.
• Proof of financial support to each other.
• Proof of parental responsibilities and rights or written consent in the form of an affidavit from the other parent or legal guardian, as the case may be In respect of dependent children accompanying the applicant or joining the applicant in the Republic.
• Unabridged birth certificate, or extract from birth record for applicant(s).
• A deed poll in the case of the applicant who has changed his or her name, surname or sex.
• Original Police clearance certificate issued by the police or security authority in each country where the relevant applicant resided for 12 months or longer after attaining the age of 18 years except for South Africa, in respect of criminal records or the character of that applicant, which certificate shall not be older than six months at the time of its submission: (Provided that the certificate shall not be required from a foreign country in the case of renewal or extension of a visa)
• A police clearance certificate shall only be required from the police or security authority in each country where the applicant, after having attained the age of 18 years, has resided for 12 months or longer during the five years immediately preceding the date of application
• Radiological report (not required in respect of children under the age of 12 years or a pregnant woman). The certificate must not be older than six (6) months at the time the applicant submits an application.
• Medical report for all applicants. The certificate must not be older than six (6) months at the time the applicant submits an application.
• Yellow fever vaccination certificate if that person travelled or intends travelling from or transit through a yellow fever endemic area: Provided that the certificate shall not be required where that person travelled or intends travelling in direct transit through such area or where an application is made in the Republic.
• Proof of five years continuous work visa, excluding work in terms of intra company transfer, corporate and Zimbabwean special project visas.
• Offer of permanent employment in the form of a contract of employment.
• A letter from your employer confirming your current and permanent employment, which is not older than six months.
• Proof of qualifications evaluated by the South African Qualification Authority.
• Work references or certificates of service (covering at least the last five years).
• Present yourself for biometrics at the visa facilitation centre.
• Endorsement related to Professional Association should be attached.
• Proof of five years continuous work visa, excluding work in terms of intra company transfer, corporate and Zimbabwean special project visas.
• Offer of permanent employment in the form of a contract of employment.
• A letter from your employer confirming your current and permanent employment, which is not older than six months.
• Proof of qualifications evaluated by the South African Qualification Authority.
• Work references or certificates of service (covering at least the last five years).

SECTION 26(A) - SPOUSE ACCOMPANING A GENERAL WORK PERMIT HOLDER

• VFS appointment letter.
• A duly completed DHA-947 form online. Handwritten forms will not be accepted by the Department of Home Affairs.
• Payment of the application fee of R1550. If the application fee was paid to VFS bank account or the mission, an original bank payment receipt, where the application fee was paid using the Electronic Fund Transfer (EFT), receipt for each applicant.
• Present a valid original passport in respect of each applicant and passport photograph for all applicants one year of age and older. A recent, passport-type, full face photograph bearing the names of the applicants on the reverse side thereof. (Machine-type or instant photographs are not acceptable).
• A valid spousal visa for temporary sojourn at the time of application in respect of each applicant, if the application is made in the Republic.
• Marriage certificate or proof of relationship in respect of a spouse accompanying the applicant or joining the applicant in the Republic (Islamic marriages entered into within the Republic are not considered).
• Divorce decree to prove the dissolution of a marriage in the case where a party was a spouse in the previous marriage or the death certificate of the deceased spouse.
• Proof of financial support to each other.
• Unabridged birth certificate, or extract from birth record for applicant(s).
• A deed poll in the case of the applicant who has changed his or her name, surname or sex.
• Original Police clearance certificate issued by the police or security authority in each country where the relevant applicant resided for 12 months or longer after attaining the age of 18 years except for South Africa, in respect of criminal records or the character of that applicant, which certificate shall not be older than six months at the time of its submission: (Provided that the certificate shall not be required from a foreign country in the case of renewal or extension of a visa)
• A police clearance certificate shall only be required from the police or security authority in each country where the applicant, after having attained the age of 18 years, has resided for 12 months or longer during the five years immediately preceding the date of application
• Radiological report (not required in respect of children under the age of 12 years or a pregnant woman). The certificate must not be older than six (6) months at the time the applicant submits an application.
• Medical report for all applicants. The certificate must not be older than six (6) months at the time the applicant submits an application.
• Yellow fever vaccination certificate if that person travelled or intends travelling from or transit through a yellow fever endemic area: Provided that the certificate shall not be required where that person travelled or intends travelling in direct transit through such area or where an application is made in the Republic.
• Present yourself for biometrics at the visa facilitation centre.

SECTION 26(A) - DEPENDENT ACCOMPANING A GENERAL WORK PERMIT HOLDER

• VFS appointment letter.
• A duly completed DHA-947 form online. Handwritten forms will not be accepted by the Department of Home Affairs.
• Payment of the application fee of R1550. If the application fee was paid to VFS bank account or the mission, an original bank payment receipt, where the application fee was paid using the Electronic Fund Transfer (EFT), receipt for each applicant.
• Present a valid original passport in respect of each applicant and passport photograph for all applicants one year of age and older. A recent, passport-type, full face photograph bearing the names of the applicants on the reverse side thereof. (Machine-type or instant photographs are not acceptable).
• A valid relative visa for temporary sojourn at the time of application in respect of each applicant joining parents, if the application is made in the Republic.
• Unabridged birth certificate, or extract from birth record for applicant(s).
• A deed poll in the case of the applicant who has changed his or her name, surname or sex.
• Radiological report (not be required in respect of children under the age of 12 years or a pregnant woman). The certificate must not be older than six (6) months at the time the applicant submits an application.
• Medical report for all applicants. The certificate must not be older than six (6) months at the time the applicant submits an application.
• Yellow fever vaccination certificate if that person travelled or intends travelling from or transit through a yellow fever endemic area: Provided that the certificate shall not be required where that person travelled or intends travelling in direct transit through such area or where an application is made in the Republic.
• An undertaking by the citizen or the permanent resident he or she is able and willing to assume financial, emotional, medical and physical responsibility.
• Written consent of both parents where only one of the parents is immigrating.
• Copy of the Identity document of the parent(s) or legal guardian who is the citizen or permanent resident if applicable.
• Copy of permanent residence permit if the parent(s) or legal guardian is a permanent resident if applicable.
• Present yourself for biometrics at the visa facilitation centre

Processing Time

• Applications are assessed individually and time frames may vary, therefore you are kindly requested to wait until a decision on your application is taken and is ready for collection, as VFS Global cannot control or influence the processing times in any way.

You can track your application online on VFS Global website to determine status of your application.

Visa fees

All fees are inclusive of VAT and to be paid in South African Rand. Above listed fees are non-refundable once the application is received by VFS Global and Department of Home Affairs.

Once all supporting documentation is available as per the documentary checklist kindly proceed to complete the online application form.

You will be required to pre-pay a minimum amount of R1550 in order to secure and schedule your appointment online.

Payment to secure your online appointment can be made in three methods:

• Online payment via Debit/Credit card through the secure online portal
• Pre-payment at Standard Bank by downloading and completing the online generated bank receipt and depositing the cash into the nearest Standard Bank
• EFT payment through the secure online portal

Note- When selecting the pre-payment option, after payment has been done you are required to visit your online application form after 3 working days to proceed to schedule your appointment.

DHA payments and Value addued services can be paid at the Visa Application Centre if not done before appointment scheduling.

Overview

Applicants applying for a permanent residence permit maybe required to provide consent (letter, bank statement, salary advice, proof of residence and or Identity documents) of both parents or guardian together with an undertaking to provide financial support to the applicant.

“Dependent(s) (<18) born in RSA, applying under Parents holding Permanent Residence obtained through being a Refugee, can apply using a Birth Certificate number where a Passport Number is not applicable”

Documents Required

• VFS appointment letter.
• A duly completed DHA-947 form online. Handwritten forms will not be accepted by the Department of Home Affairs.
• Payment of the application fee of R1550. If the application fee was paid to VFS bank account or the mission, an original bank payment receipt, where the application fee was paid using the Electronic Fund Transfer (EFT), receipt for each applicant.
• Present a valid original passport in respect of each applicant and passport photograph for all applicants one year of age and older. A recent, passport-type, full face photograph bearing the names of the applicants on the reverse side thereof. (Machine-type or instant photographs are not acceptable).
• A valid relative visa for temporary sojourn at the time of application in respect of each applicant joining parents, if the application is made in the Republic.
• Unabridged birth certificate, or extract from birth record for applicant(s).
• A deed poll in the case of the applicant who has changed his or her name, surname or sex.
• Radiological report (not required in respect of children under the age of 12 years or a pregnant woman). The certificate must not be older than six (6) months at the time the applicant submits an application.
• Medical report for all applicants. The certificate must not be older than six (6) months at the time the applicant submits an application.
• Yellow fever vaccination certificate if that person travelled or intends travelling from or transit through a yellow fever endemic area: Provided that the certificate shall not be required where that person travelled or intends travelling in direct transit through such area or where an application is made in the Republic.
• An undertaking by the citizen or the permanent resident he or she is able and willing to assume financial, emotional, medical and physical responsibility.
• Written consent of both parents where only one of the parents is immigrating.
• Copy of the Identity document of the parent(s) or legal guardian who is the citizen or permanent resident.
• Copy of permanent residence permit if the parent(s) or legal guardian is a permanent resident.
• Present yourself for biometrics at the visa facilitation center.

Processing Time

Visa fees

Overview

Documents Required

Processing Time

Visa fees

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Visa fees

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Visa fees

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Visa fees

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Visa fees

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Visa fees

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Visa fees

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Visa fees

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Visa fees

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Visa fees

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Visa fees

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Visa fees

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Visa fees

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Visa fees

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Visa fees

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Visa fees

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Documents Required

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Visa fees