Bringing your spouse to South Africa should be a happy event, not a stressful one. This guide will walk you through every step of the complex spousal visa process meant explicitly for legally married couples.

What is a Spousal Visa?

A spousal visa allows foreign partners of South African citizens or Permanent Residents (PR) to live and work in South Africa. If you’re legally married to an SA citizen or PR, you qualify for a spousal visa.When comparing spousal visa vs life partner visa, it’s essential to note that for the former, a genuine marriage certificate is required.

Requirements & Eligibility

So, what are the requirements for a spousal visa in South Africa? Apart from holding a valid marriage certificate, you should provide financial proof of supporting your spouse. A clear criminal record is another basic requirement to maintain good character status.

The Application Process

Now, let’s demystify the application process. Here’s a sturdy step-by-step guide to your VFS submission:
  1. Fill the Form DHA-1738.
  2. Book an appointment online for your application submission.
  3. Appear in-person at the VFS application centre for biometrics collection, submit your application, pay the fee, and collect the receipt.
Please note that you cannot apply for a spouse visa online – VFS submissions are in-person.

Document Checklist

As for the question “What documents do you need to apply for a spouse visa?”, here are the core documents required:
  • Valid passport/travel documents
  • Unabridged marriage certificate
  • Police clearance certificate
  • Medical and radiological reports
This list can be overwhelming, but remember, as the best spousal visa agent in South Africa, Abroadscope is here to assist you.

Costs & Timelines

Regarding “how much is a spousal permit in South Africa,” there are two fees to bear in mind:
  • DHA Fee: R425
  • VFS Service Fee: R1550
The application process usually takes 8-10 weeks, but this can vary.

Conclusion

As you can now see, the process of applying for a spousal visa in South Africa is detailed and requires significant attention to detail. But remember- you don’t have to go through it alone.Don’t let paperwork keep you apart. If you’re ready to apply for your spousal visa in South Africa, find a family visa expert at Abroadscope. We are the best spousal visa agent in South Africa and guarantee a smooth process for a reunion with your spouse.