{"id":4115,"date":"2024-01-28T01:00:00","date_gmt":"2024-01-28T01:00:00","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.aipassportphotos.com\/blog\/?p=4115"},"modified":"2024-09-13T07:09:04","modified_gmt":"2024-09-13T07:09:04","slug":"how-to-apply-for-permanent-residence-in-south-africa","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.aipassportphotos.com\/blog\/how-to-apply-for-permanent-residence-in-south-africa\/","title":{"rendered":"How to Apply for Permanent Residence in South Africa"},"content":{"rendered":"\n<p>South Africa is always appealing because of its rich cultural heritage and landscapes. No matter traveling or resenting for a long time, a South African permanent residence makes your tour of South Africa easier. Want to apply for permanent residence in South Africa? In this overall guide, learn the requirements for a SA permanent residence and know how to apply for it step by step.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Types of South African Permanent Residence<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>There are two types of South African permanent residence you can obtain. They are:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>1.&nbsp; Direct residence permit. The most popular route to permanent residency in South Africa is through a straight permanent residence permit. If you have been in the nation for at least five years and have a valid work visa, you are eligible for this permit.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>2.&nbsp; Permanent residence on other bases. Those who meet certain requirements, such as holding a financially independent visa or having refugee status, are granted permanent residency in South Africa.<\/p>\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\">\n<figure class=\"aligncenter\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"726\" height=\"437\" src=\"https:\/\/www.aipassportphotos.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/01\/image-118.png\" alt=\"sa permanent residence\" class=\"wp-image-4141\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.aipassportphotos.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/01\/image-118.png 726w, https:\/\/www.aipassportphotos.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/01\/image-118-300x181.png 300w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 726px) 100vw, 726px\" \/><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Who Qualifies as a South African Resident<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>If you have resided in South Africa for at least five years using your work permit, you and your spouse are eligible for a direct permanent residence permit. Applicants may also be dependents of South African nationals or holders of permanent residency permits.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Foreign nationals with residency on other grounds are those who:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>possess a permanent job offer in South Africa; <\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>have extraordinary abilities and credentials; <\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>intend to start a business in South Africa; <\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>qualify as refugees under Section 27(c) of the Refugees Act;<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>are financially independent; <\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>are related to a South African citizen or holder of a permanent residence permit, either biologically or through court adoption.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Required Documents for SA Permanent Residence<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>If you need to apply for SA permanent residence, make sure you have prepared the following documents in advance:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>BI-947 application form. Signed and completed; only black ink should be used. It would help if you didn&#8217;t make any changes or use white-out.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"700\" src=\"https:\/\/www.aipassportphotos.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/01\/image-116-1024x700.png\" alt=\"bi 947 application form\" class=\"wp-image-4137\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.aipassportphotos.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/01\/image-116-1024x700.png 1024w, https:\/\/www.aipassportphotos.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/01\/image-116-300x205.png 300w, https:\/\/www.aipassportphotos.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/01\/image-116-768x525.png 768w, https:\/\/www.aipassportphotos.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/01\/image-116.png 1055w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>A valid passport. Kindly turn in your passport, which needs to be valid for a minimum of three months after you depart the nation.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Complete collection of prints. To receive a permanent residency permit, you will also need to supply your biometric data.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>A marriage certificate or evidence of a spousal relationship. Make sure you have a&nbsp;<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>certificate if you are married. If you are divorced, you must also present your divorce decree or documentation of your formal separation.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>A current temporary work permit. Only if you are already in South Africa does this apply.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Application cost. Original electronic fund transfer receipt or bank payment for every application.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>A <a href=\"https:\/\/www.aipassportphotos.com\/en-za\/south-african-passport-photo\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\" title=\"\">passport photo<\/a> for every candidate who is at least a year old. The applicants&#8217; names must appear on the back of the photo, which needs to be current.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Certificate of police clearance. Ensure that you present police certificates from every nation where you have resided since turning eighteen.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p>Add these extra documents if you are applying for permanent residency in a different circumstance:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ol class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Evidence of refugee status.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Evidence of funding made in South Africa.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Evidence of starting or funding a business in South Africa.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Proof of holding a permanent work in South Africa.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Evidence of sufficient financial resources.<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n\n\n\n<p>For minors, provide these documents:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ol class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Evidence of guardianship, if relevant.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Parental approval (if the child is a minor).<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Evidence of a minor&#8217;s judicial adoption, if any.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>If the applicant is a minor, written consent is also required.<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>How to Apply for Permanent Residence in South Africa<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>To apply for permanent residence in South Africa, you need to follow these steps:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Step 1. Prepare required documents: Gather the required documents mentioned before, including proof of your residency, linguistic ability, moral integrity, and familiarity with South African society and culture, etc.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Step 2. Fill out the application: The application form is available online or in the Home Affairs office that is closest to you.<\/p>\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\">\n<figure class=\"aligncenter size-full\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"486\" height=\"536\" src=\"https:\/\/www.aipassportphotos.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/01\/image-117.png\" alt=\"fill out the application\" class=\"wp-image-4138\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.aipassportphotos.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/01\/image-117.png 486w, https:\/\/www.aipassportphotos.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/01\/image-117-272x300.png 272w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 486px) 100vw, 486px\" \/><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n<p>Step 3. Send in your application: You have two options for submitting your application: online via their website or in person at the closest Home Affairs office.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Step 4. Attend an interview: If your application is accepted, you will receive an invitation to speak with a Home Affairs representative to verify your citizenship status.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Step 5. Take the citizenship test: To prove your familiarity with South African society and culture, you can be asked to take a citizenship test.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Step 6. Attend a citizenship ceremony: You will receive an invitation to participate in a ceremony where you will swear allegiance to South Africa if your application is accepted.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Step 7. Get your certificate of citizenship: Your certificate of South African citizenship will be given to you following the citizenship ceremony.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>How Much Does a Permanent Residence Application Cost<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>To apply for permanent residence in South Africa, you need to pay R1520($88). You have to pay on the day you apply and the fee cannot be refunded if the application fails to pass.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>How Long Does It Take to Get SA Permanent Residence?<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Generally speaking, it will take you 6-8 months to get SA permanent residence. You can obtain it after the citizenship ceremony.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Who Does Not Qualify for South African Permanent Resident<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>In the following cases, you cannot apply for a South African permanent resident:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>1.&nbsp; <strong>You\u2019re prohibited.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>In South Africa, you are deemed a forbidden person and are not eligible to apply for permanent residency if:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>You have a contagious illness that spreads quickly.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>You were found guilty of major crimes including drug trafficking, genocide, torture, and people trafficking, hence you have a criminal record.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>You belong to a group that incites social violence or hatred toward members of a marginalized community.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>You indeed belong to a terrorist group.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>South Africa had previously deported you.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p>2.&nbsp; <strong>You\u2019re undesirable<\/strong>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>In South Africa, you shouldn\u2019t be granted permanent residency if:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>It is the Minister who has recognized you as an undesirable person.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>You&#8217;ll probably end up a public charge\u2014that is, reliant on the state.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>You&#8217;re on the run.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>You&#8217;ve had criminal activity in the past.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>You are an applicant who lacks rehabilitation.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p>3.&nbsp; <strong>You don&#8217;t plan to go to South Africa permanently.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>You are reluctant to establish yourself there as your primary abode.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>FAQ<\/strong> <strong>about SA Permanent Resident<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Can a permanent resident get a South African passport?<\/strong><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p>Yes. If you are a SA permanent residency permit holder, you are eligible for a South African passport.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>How long does South African permanent residency last?<\/strong><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p>There is no expiration date for a permanent residence permit in South Africa. However, you have to visit South Africa every three years to keep your permanent resident qualification.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Do you get permanent residency if you marry a South African?<\/strong><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p>You need to have been in a relationship with a South African citizen for at least five years, then you can get permanent residency.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>The Bottom Line<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>In this guide, we have covered information about permanent residence in South Africa. Check whether you are qualified to get a permanent residence and prepare related documents. Then follow the steps to apply for the SA permanent resident with ease.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>South Africa is always appealing because of its rich cultural heritage and landscapes. No matter&#8230;<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":5,"featured_media":4139,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"open","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"footnotes":""},"categories":[435,401],"tags":[],"class_list":["post-4115","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-permanent-residency","category-south-africa"],"aioseo_notices":[],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.aipassportphotos.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/4115","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.aipassportphotos.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.aipassportphotos.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.aipassportphotos.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/5"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.aipassportphotos.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=4115"}],"version-history":[{"count":5,"href":"https:\/\/www.aipassportphotos.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/4115\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":10804,"href":"https:\/\/www.aipassportphotos.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/4115\/revisions\/10804"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.aipassportphotos.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/4139"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.aipassportphotos.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=4115"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.aipassportphotos.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=4115"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.aipassportphotos.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=4115"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}