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Retirement Visa South Africa
Requirements, Costs & Application Guide (2025)
The South African Retirement Visa allows foreign nationals to live in South Africa if they can prove a guaranteed monthly income of at least R37,000 (from pensions, annuities, rental income, dividends, or investments). The visa is valid for 4 years, renewable, and offers a pathway to permanent residency. Employment is not permitted.
Check Your Eligibility – Free Assessment
Retirement Visa Eligibility at a Glance
| Requirement | Details |
|---|---|
| Minimum Monthly Income | R37,000 (from pension, annuity, rental, dividends, or investments) |
| Validity | 4 years, renewable |
| Work Rights | No employment allowed |
| Permanent Residency Pathway | Yes, with proof of lifelong income |
| Family Inclusion | Spouse & children may be included |
Why Retire in South Africa?
South Africa offers an unbeatable blend of lifestyle and affordability:
- High quality of life at a fraction of Western costs
- World-class healthcare in major cities
- Favourable exchange rates for pension and investment income
- Natural beauty: beaches, wildlife, mountains, vineyards
- Vibrant expat communities in Cape Town, Johannesburg, and Durban
We’ve helped thousands of retirees relocate successfully, ensuring their applications meet DHA’s strict financial requirements.
Start Your Retirement Journey – Free Assessment
Requirements for the South African Retirement Visa (2025)
Applicants must provide:
- Proof of guaranteed monthly income ≥ R37,000 (pensions, annuities, rental income, dividends, or investments)
- Valid passport (30+ days after intended stay)
- Police clearance certificates
- Medical report
- Marriage/birth certificates if including dependants
- Proof of accommodation in South Africa
The monthly income proof must be consistent, reliable, and well-documented (bank transfers, pension slips, or investment statements, etc).
How to Apply for a Retirement Visa in South Africa
Processing time: 8–12 weeks depending on DHA and VFS workloads.
- Free Assessment – confirm eligibility via our team
- Gather Documentation – financial proof, medicals, police clearances
- Submit Application – through South African embassy/mission abroad or VFS centre in SA
- Pay Fees – DHA + VFS charges
- Adjudication – typically 8–12 weeks
- Travel & Activate Visa – enter SA and begin your retirement journey
Important: Tourist visas cannot be converted into Retirement Visas inside South Africa.
Pathway to Permanent Residency
The Retirement Visa provides a route to PR:
- Must prove lifelong guaranteed income (pension, annuity, or similar)
- PR allows indefinite stay, with greater security and access to rights
Many of our clients apply for PR after 5 years, using retirement income as proof of lifelong financial sustainability.
Case Example – Retiree Couple from Europe
Case: Paul & Anna – retirees from Germany
- Proved income through combined pensions + rental income = R52,000/month
- Submitted bank transfers + pension statements + property lease
- Retirement Visa approved in 10 weeks
- Living in Cape Town, with PR planned after 5 years
Your retirement in South Africa could be just as smooth — we’ve assisted thousands of retirees successfully.
Retirement Visa vs Financially Independent Visa
| Feature | Retirement Visa | Financially Independent Permit |
|---|---|---|
| Financial Requirement | R37,000/month guaranteed income | Net worth ≥ R12 million |
| Work Rights | Not permitted | Full rights |
| Validity | 4 years, renewable | Direct PR (indefinite) |
| PR Pathway | Proof of lifelong income | Immediate PR |
Ready to retire in South Africa?
With 20+ years of experience and having helped thousands of retirees, our team ensures your Retirement Visa application is smooth, compliant, and stress-free.
Start with a free immigration eligibility assessment today.
Whether you’re just exploring your options or ready to take the leap, Intergate Immigration is here to ensure a smooth transition.
Call us directly at +27 (0)21 424 2460 or click below to begin your journey.
Frequently Asked Questions
Find answers to your most pressing questions about the Retirement Visa to live in South Africa
