How long is a Spousal Visa valid?

Spousal visas are generally issued for up to three years. They may be renewed as long as the marriage subsists and the sponsoring spouse continues to be a South African citizen or permanent resident.

Can I work on a Spousal Visa?

A spousal visa does not automatically authorize employment or study. However, it may be endorsed to allow the holder to work, operate a business or study in South Africa; the relevant endorsement must be applied for and approved.

What proof is needed to show our marriage is genuine?

Applicants must demonstrate that the relationship is legitimate and ongoing. Documents such as a marriage certificate, joint bank accounts, shared leases or utility bills, photographs of the couple together and affidavits from friends or family members can be used to prove a genuine marriage.

Where do I apply for a Spousal Visa?

Spousal visa applications must be lodged at a South African embassy or consulate abroad or at a VFS centre if you are legally residing in South Africa on another visa that allows change of status.

What are common reasons for spousal visa refusals?

Refusals are typically due to missing affidavits from both spouses, insufficient evidence showing that the marriage is bona fide, errors in the application forms or inconsistencies between submitted documents and declarations.

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South African Spousal Visa

Requirements, Costs & Application Guide (2025)

Young mixed race couple enjoying coffee together in their kitchen

The South African Spousal Visa allows foreign nationals who are married to a South African citizen or permanent resident to live in South Africa. The visa is valid for up to 3 years and can include work, study, or business endorsements. After 5 years of marriage or partnership, applicants may qualify for permanent residency.

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Spousal Visa Eligibility at a Glance

Requirement	Details
Relationship	Married to a South African citizen or PR holder
Duration of Visa	Up to 3 years, renewable
Proof Required	Valid marriage certificate
Work Rights	With endorsement
Study Rights	With endorsement
Business Rights	With endorsement
PR Pathway	Yes, after 5 years of marriage

Why Apply for a Spousal Visa?

The Spousal Visa is one of the most practical and flexible family visas. It allows you to:

Live legally with your spouse in South Africa
Work, study, or run a business once endorsements are added
Apply for permanent residency after 5 years of marriage
Keep your family together with dependants included

We’ve helped thousands of couples from 40+ countries successfully reunite and settle in South Africa.

Find Out If You Qualify – Free Assessment

Requirements for the South African Spousal Visa (2025)

To qualify, you must provide:

Valid marriage certificate
Copy of South African spouse’s ID or PR certificate
Valid passport (30+ days after intended stay)
Police clearance certificates
Medical report
Endorsement documents if working, studying, or running a business

DHA requires strong proof that the marriage is genuine — applicants should submit as much supporting evidence as possible.

How to Apply for a Spousal Visa in South Africa

Processing time: 4–12 weeks for temporary visas, 6–12 months for permanent residency applications.

Free Assessment – confirm eligibility with our team
Gather Documents – marriage certificate, proof of relationship, medicals, police clearance
Submit Application – at a VFS centre in SA or South African mission abroad
Pay Fees – DHA + VFS charges
Adjudication – processing times vary by case and workload
Visa Issued – endorsed visa linked to your marriage

Note: Certain applications cannot be lodged from inside South Africa depending on your current visa conditions.

Pathway to Permanent Residency

The Spousal Visa offers a clear PR pathway:

After 5 years of marriage or partnership, you may apply for Permanent Residency under Section 26(b) of the Immigration Act
PR is granted indefinitely, giving full rights to live, work, and study in South Africa without endorsements
Once PR is granted, you may also apply for South African citizenship after several additional years

This makes the Spousal Visa one of the strongest family-based visas for long-term settlement.

Common Refusal Reasons

Spousal Visa refusals often occur due to:

Incomplete documentation (uncertified translations, expired police clearances)

Our team ensures your application avoids these pitfalls through careful preparation.

Case Example – Successful Spousal Visa

Case: James & Nomsa

Married in 2019, applied for Spousal Visa in 2021
Submitted marriage certificate, joint lease, joint bank account, and affidavits
Added a work endorsement for James
Visa approved in 10 weeks
Now applying for permanent residency after 5 years of marriage

Thousands of couples like James & Nomsa have successfully settled in South Africa through our guidance.

Spousal Visa vs Life Partner Visa vs Permanent Residency

Feature	Spousal Visa	Life Partner Visa	Permanent Residency (Spousal)
Relationship	Married	Unmarried, proven 2+ year relationship	Married or Life Partner (after 5 years)
Duration	Up to 3 years	Up to 3 years	Indefinite
Work Rights	With endorsement	With endorsement	Full rights
PR Pathway	After 5 years	After 5 years	Already permanent

Ready to live in South Africa with your spouse?

Our immigration experts have helped thousands of couples reunite and build their lives in South Africa. From endorsements to PR, we guide you every step of the way.

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FAQs

Frequently Asked Questions

Find answers to your most pressing questions about the Spousal Visa to live in South Africa

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Whether you're just exploring your options or ready to start the journey, Intergate Immigration is here to make your transition to South Africa as smooth as possible. Welcome to your future in South Africa—where we're ready to welcome you home.

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