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🇿🇦family Visa

Relative's Visa (Section 18)

South Africa

Last updated: December 30, 2025

Duration

2 years (renewable)

Visa Fee

$24

Time

4-8 weeks

Complexity

Medium

About this Visa

This visa lets you move to South Africa if a family member who is a South African citizen or permanent resident sponsors you. It's for spouses, partners, children, parents, and siblings. You can live in South Africa legally for up to 2 years at a time. You can renew it as many times as needed. Many people use this visa as a stepping stone to eventually get permanent residence.

Key Benefits

  • Live legally in South Africa
  • Bring spouse and children on same visa (free)
  • Renew from inside South Africa
  • Path to permanent residence if spouse (after 5 years) or child (if dependent)
  • Parents can work if relationship ended and have South African child (apply within 3 months)

Eligibility & Requirements

Eligibility Criteria

  • Spouse or life partner (lived together 2+ years)
  • Biological or adopted child (any age)
  • Parent of adult South African citizen/resident (if child is 18+)
  • Sibling (brother or sister)
  • No criminal record
  • In good health
  • Any age (no minimum or maximum)

Financial Requirement

Your South African sponsor needs at least $509 per month income to support you. No income requirement if you're a spouse or child under 18.

Documents

  • Valid passport30+ days validity, 2 blank pages
  • Police clearanceFrom every country where you lived 1+ year since age 18
  • Medical exam (DHA-811)Proof of good health
  • TB test (X-ray)Radiological report required
  • Proof of relationshipMarriage cert, birth cert, or adoption papers
  • Sponsor's bank statementsLast 3 months, stamped by bank
  • Proof of accommodationWhere you'll live in South Africa
  • Invitation letterFrom your South African sponsor

Disclaimer: The information on this page is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute legal or immigration advice. Visa requirements, fees, and processes change frequently. Please verify all information with official government sources and consult a qualified immigration attorney before making decisions.