For spouses or life partners of South African citizens or permanent residents. Requires proof of genuine relationship.
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.
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.
For life partners (not married): a notarial agreement entered into by both partners and proof that the partnership has existed for at least two (2) years prior to the date of application. Includes proof of exclusive cohabitation.
Tip: Life partners must prove at least 2 years of exclusive cohabitation: joint lease, shared bank accounts, shared utility bills, photos together.
Full/unabridged birth certificates for each dependent child included in the application.
Not a law firm. This platform provides AI-powered guidance, not legal advice. For complex cases, consult a registered immigration practitioner.