SA
Visas/family/Relative's Visa
Section 18

Relative's Visa

For close family members (parents, children, siblings) of South African citizens or permanent residents. Does not permit work or study.

Government FeeR1,520
VFS FeeR1,550
Processing Time~60 days
Max DurationUp to 2 years
RenewableYes
Leads to PRCheck eligibility

Document Checklist

Required Documents (12)

Valid Passport

Original, machine-readable passport valid for no less than 30 calendar days after the expiry of the intended visit, with at least two (2) unused/blank pages for entry/exit stamps.

Tip: Check expiry date carefully. Many rejections happen due to insufficient passport validity or no blank pages.

Certified Copy of Passport Bio-Data PageCertified

Clear, certified/notarized photocopy of the bio-data page of your passport.

Tip: Some VFS centres accept notarized copies. Ensure the copy is clear and legible.

Passport-Sized Photographs2 copies

Two (2) recent colour passport-sized photographs (35mm x 45mm) on a white or light background. Applicant's name must be written on the back of each photograph.

Tip: Photos must be recent (within 6 months). White background, no glasses, neutral expression. Write your full name on the back.

Must be less than 6 months old

Completed Application Form

Duly completed and signed application form. BI-84 (Form 11) for visitor/short-term visas, or DHA-1738 (Form 8) for temporary residence visas, or DHA-947 (Form 18) for permanent residence. Forms are completed online through the VFS Global portal (visa.vfsglobal.com/zaf/en/dha). You must create a VFS account, fill the form digitally, pay the VFS service fee (R1,550), then download and print the completed form for your in-person submission appointment.

Tip: Complete the form online at ehome.dha.gov.za where available. Double-check every field before signing.

Unabridged Birth CertificateCertified

Unabridged birth certificate proving the biological/legal relationship between the applicant and the South African citizen or permanent resident relative. Must show both parents' names.

Tip: The birth certificate must clearly prove the relationship (e.g., same parents for siblings).

SA Relative's ID Document or PR PermitCertified

Certified copy of the South African citizen or permanent resident relative's ID document or permanent residence permit.

Proof of Financial Means / Financial AssuranceCertified

Current salary advice or certified bank statements (not older than 3 months) demonstrating a minimum income or financial support of R8,500 per person per month. The SA relative may provide financial assurance on behalf of the applicant.

Tip: The SA relative can provide a financial guarantee. Include their salary slips and bank statements.

Must be less than 3 months old

Affidavit of Support from SA RelativeNotarised

Sworn affidavit from the South African relative confirming their willingness and ability to support the applicant during their stay.

Proof of Accommodation

Proof of accommodation arrangement in South Africa (e.g., lease agreement, property ownership, or letter from the SA relative confirming accommodation).

Medical Report (BI-811)

Medical examination report on prescribed form BI-811. Not older than 6 months.

Must be less than 6 months old

Radiological Report (Chest X-ray)

Radiological report on prescribed form. Not required for children under 12 or pregnant women. Not older than 6 months.

Must be less than 6 months old

Police Clearance Certificate

Police clearance from each country of residence (12+ months since age 18). Not older than 6 months. Required for applicants 18 years or older.

Must be less than 6 months old

May Be Required (2)

Yellow Fever Vaccination Certificate

Required if the applicant has travelled from, or intends travelling from or transiting through, a yellow fever endemic area. Must be the original International Certificate of Vaccination or Prophylaxis (ICVP).

Tip: Check the WHO list of yellow fever endemic countries. The certificate is valid for life after a 10-day activation period.

Marriage Certificate (if applicable)Certified

Marriage certificate if the relationship is established through marriage (e.g., parent-in-law, step-child).

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