Spousal/Life Partner Visa

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.

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.

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

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.

Certified copy of the marriage certificate. For foreign marriages, proof of official recognition thereof issued by the authorities of the foreign country. Must be translated into English by a sworn translator if not in English.

Tip: For customary marriages, provide the marriage certificate registered with DHA. For foreign marriages, an apostille or authentication may be required.

Completed DHA-1712A Form 12 filled out by both the applicant and the South African citizen or permanent residence holder spouse/partner.

Documentation proving cohabitation and the extent to which related financial responsibilities are shared. Examples: joint bank statements, joint lease agreements, municipal/utility accounts in both names, shared insurance policies, joint property ownership, photographs of the couple together.

Tip: The more evidence of a genuine shared life, the stronger the application. Include photos, joint accounts, shared address proof.

Certified copy of the South African citizen or permanent residence holder spouse/partner's ID document or permanent residence permit.

Three (3) months bank statements of both the applicant and the SA spouse/partner, with a minimum end balance of no less than the equivalent of R3,000.

Must be less than 3 months old

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

Must be less than 6 months old

Radiological report on prescribed form. Not older than 6 months.

Must be less than 6 months old

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

Must be less than 6 months old

The South African citizen or permanent resident spouse/partner must present themselves in person during submission of the application at VFS/DHA.

Tip: Both parties must attend the VFS appointment together. The SA spouse may be interviewed.