Reunite with Family in South Africa—Legally, Clearly, and Compassionately
South Africa offers a Relatives Visa to foreign nationals who are immediate family members of South African citizens or permanent residents. Whether you’re joining a spouse, parent, or child, the Relatives Visa allows you to live legally in South Africa and begin the process of family reunification.
At Borderless Lawyers, we provide trusted legal guidance for families—ensuring your visa process is smooth, your rights are protected, and your stay is fully compliant.
✅ What Is the South Africa Relatives Visa?
The Relatives Visa is a temporary residence visa that allows certain family members of South African citizens or permanent residents to live in South Africa. It is valid for up to 2 years at a time and can be renewed. Spouses and dependents may also apply for permanent residence after meeting the relevant residency requirements.
🔶 Who Can Apply?
Eligible relatives include:
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Spouses and life partners (married or unmarried)
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Minor or dependent children
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Parents of minor South African citizens
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Biological or adopted children of SA citizens or permanent residents
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Other family members may qualify in rare cases based on financial dependency and DHA discretion
📌 Life partners must prove cohabitation and a committed relationship of at least 2 years.
🛠 How We Help
1️⃣ Eligibility Review & Relationship Verification
We assess your relationship documentation and confirm the correct visa stream (spousal, parental, dependent, etc.) and whether permanent residency is an option.
2️⃣ Application Document Preparation
We assist with:
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Relationship affidavits and proof of cohabitation
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Birth, marriage, or adoption certificates
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Notarized letters of financial support (for relatives over 21)
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Medical, radiological, and police clearances
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Submission of forms to VFS Global or relevant embassy
3️⃣ Status Management & Renewals
We help you manage visa extensions, change of status (e.g., to work or study), and permanent residency applications when eligible.
👥 Who Should Consider a Relatives Visa?
✅ Foreign spouses or life partners of South Africans
✅ Children of South African citizens or permanent residents
✅ Parents or legal guardians of South African minors
✅ Extended family members with legal financial dependency
✅ Families seeking eventual permanent reunification
⚖️ Important Considerations
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The Relatives Visa does not automatically allow work or study—a change of conditions or status is required
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Financial support must be proven for family members over 21
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For life partners, home visits and interviews may be conducted
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Permanent residence is available after 5 years for qualifying spouses and partners
🇿🇦 Why Reunite in South Africa?
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Strong legal framework for family migration
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Vibrant multicultural society and welcoming communities
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High-quality healthcare, education, and family services
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Pathway to long-term residence and citizenship
📞 Reunite with Legal Certainty
Family should never be separated by red tape. At Borderless Lawyers, we help you navigate the South Africa Relatives Visa process with clarity, compassion, and full legal precision.
Let us help you build your life together—in South Africa.