Spousal – Married and Life Partner Visa for Immigration to South Africa

Spousal – married – and life partner visas, although grouped together, are different applications but the criteria remain very much the same.

For same-sex couples the rules and regulations do not differ from a heterosexual couple.

The spousal and life partner visas can both be applied for between 2 and 3 years.
Both relationships must be monogamous and permanent.
Proof of the relationship is required (please note that life partner proof is more complex).
Permanent residency can be applied for providing the relationship can be proven for 5 years.
In both cases the foreign partner does not require a work visa to commence work but an endorsement. See here for more information on work endorsements.
In both cases where the foreign partner wishes to set up a business, a business visa is not required but an endorsement is. See here for more information on business endorsements.
If the foreign partners wish to study, a study permit is not required but an endorsement is. See here for information on study endorsements.