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Visas/family/Life Partner Visa
Section 11(6)

Life Partner Visa

For foreign nationals in a permanent life partnership with a South African citizen or permanent resident. Requires proof of a genuine, committed relationship of at least 2 years.

Get ChecklistEstimate Fees
Government FeeR1,520
VFS FeeR1,550
Processing Time~60 days
Max DurationDuration of relationship
RenewableYes
Leads to PRCheck eligibility

Eligibility Requirements

Minimum age: 18 years
Must prove a genuine, committed relationship of at least 2 years
Both partners must sign a notarised declaration
Partner must be a South African citizen or permanent resident
Must provide evidence of cohabitation and shared financial responsibility

Document Checklist

Required Documents (8)

Valid passport2 copiesCertified

Valid for at least 30 days beyond intended stay

Tip: Ensure at least 2 blank pages

Passport photos2 copies

Recent passport-sized photos (35x45mm)

Tip: White background, no glasses

Must be less than 6 months old

Police clearance certificatesApostilled

From every country lived in for 12+ months since age 18

Tip: Must be recent, most expire after 6 months

Must be less than 6 months old

Medical certificate

Issued by a registered medical practitioner

Tip: Use the prescribed DHA medical report form

Must be less than 6 months old

Radiological report

Chest X-ray for TB screening

Must be less than 6 months old

Notarised partnership declarationNotarised

Joint declaration by both partners, signed before a notary

Tip: Both partners must appear before the notary together

Proof of relationship

Evidence of at least 2 years: photos, shared lease, joint accounts, correspondence

Tip: The more evidence from different periods, the stronger your application

Partner's ID or passportCertified

Certified copy of your SA partner's ID document or passport

May Be Required (1)

Yellow fever certificate

Required if from an endemic country

Tip: Check WHO list for endemic countries

Required Forms

DHA-1738

Department of Home Affairs application form

To apply, you must create an account on the VFS Global online portal, complete the application form digitally, and pay the VFS service fee (R1,550) before you can download your form and schedule your in-person submission appointment. Our platform helps you prepare your answers before you go to VFS.

Expert Tips

1

Ensure all documents are certified copies - originals plus copies

2

Book your VFS appointment well in advance

3

Keep all police clearances current - they expire after 6 months

Frequently Asked Questions

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