Immigrating To South Africa

You don't have to be just a tourist in South Africa; you can also live here temporarily or permanently for various reasons, such as studying, retiring, working, or taking a sabbatical! If you are already in South Africa on a valid temporary visa (one that is not a tourist visa), you may be eligible to apply for permanent residency. This application must align with specific categories, which include work-based options and financial independence.

It is well-known that South Africa faces a high unemployment rate, which is why the Department of Home Affairs prioritizes work visas for skilled workers who can contribute to the local labor force or possess skills that are scarce in the country. As a result, individuals entering South Africa on categories like relative visas or retirement visas are generally not permitted to work. This policy aims to create job opportunities for the over 30% of South Africans currently without employment.

South African immigration law is outlined in the Immigration Act (No 13 of 2002), which sets the standards applicants must meet to immigrate permanently. This act not only defines various residency categories but also stipulates that applicants cannot be classified as "prohibited" or "undesirable" when applying for a visa.

VFS Immigration Attorneys is here to assist you with all your South African immigration needs. If you have any questions or inquiries regarding immigration in South Africa, please feel free to reach out to us.