The Relatives Visa allows close family members of South African citizens or permanent residents to live in South Africa. Eligible relatives include children, parents and siblings. The visa is valid for up to 2 years, renewable, and in certain cases (e.g., first-kin), may lead to permanent residency.
Check Your Eligibility – Free Assessment
Relatives Visa Eligibility at a Glance
| Requirement | Details |
|---|
| Relationship | Child, parent and siblings. |
| Duration | Up to 2 years, renewable |
| Proof Required | Birth/adoption certificate, custody/guardianship, or dependency evidence |
| Work/Study Rights | Not automatic (endorsement required) |
| Pathway to PR | Limited (first-kin relatives may qualify) |
Why Apply for a South African Relatives Visa?
The Relatives Visa is designed for family reunification. It provides legal residency for children, parents, or dependent relatives of South African citizens or permanent residents.
- Family unity: Live together legally in South Africa
- Dependent protection: Covers children, parents, and vulnerable dependents
- Renewable: Allows ongoing residency if dependency continues
- Permanent residency: First-kin relatives (children or parents) may apply for PR
We’ve helped thousands of families reunite successfully through the Relatives Visa route.
Find Out If You Qualify – Free Assessment
Requirements for the South African Relatives Visa (2025)
Applicants must provide:
- Valid passport (30+ days beyond intended stay)
- Proof of relationship (birth certificate, adoption papers, guardianship proof)
- South African sponsor’s ID or PR certificate
- Proof of dependency (financial, medical, or custodial evidence)
- Police clearance certificates (for applicants over 18)
- Medical report
- Proof that the South African sponsor can financially support the applicant
DHA often requires strong, verifiable documentation to confirm both relationship and dependency.
How to Apply for a Relatives Visa in South Africa
Processing time: 4–12 weeks depending on DHA & VFS workloads.
- Free Assessment – confirm eligibility
- Collect Documents – proof of relationship, dependency, medicals, clearances
- Submit Application – via VFS centre in SA or South African mission abroad
- Pay Fees – DHA + VFS charges
- Adjudication – typically 6–12 weeks
- Visa Issued – endorsed for up to 2 years
Applications usually require proof that the South African relative can financially support the applicant.
Permanent Residency Pathway
- First-kin relatives (children/parents): Eligible for PR under Section 18 of the Immigration Act.
- Extended relatives (siblings, dependents): Usually only granted renewable temporary residency.
PR through relatives visas is less direct than Spousal or Life Partner visas — but possible for first-kin applicants.
Limitations of the Relatives Visa
- Work/study not automatic – requires separate endorsement or alternative visa
- Dependency proof required – must demonstrate ongoing support
- PR only for first-kin – siblings or extended family generally not eligible
- Renewals required – visa valid for 2 years at a time
Case Example: Sarah Sponsored Her Elderly Mother
- Provided proof of dependency (medical reports + financial support)
- Submitted joint affidavits and her SA PR certificate
- Application approved within 10 weeks
- Renewed every 2 years, ensuring her mother can remain legally in South Africa
Your family’s story could be next — our team has helped thousands reunite through Relatives Visas.
Relatives Visa vs Other Family Visas
| Feature | Relatives Visa | Spousal Visa | Life Partner Visa |
|---|
| Who Qualifies | Child, parent, sibling, dependent relative | Married partner | Unmarried partner (2+ years cohabitation) |
| Duration | Up to 2 years | Up to 3 years | Up to 3 years |
| Work/Study/Business Rights | No (unless endorsed) | With endorsement | With endorsement |
| PR Pathway | Limited (first-kin only) | After 5 years | After 5 years |
Keep your family close in South Africa.
From children and parents to dependent relatives, our immigration team ensures your Relatives Visa application is smooth, compliant, and stress-free. We’ve helped thousands of families reunite successfully — let us help yours.
Book Your Free Relatives Visa Assessment Today
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