Section 11(6) of the Immigration Act allows the foreign spouse of an SA citizen or permanent resident to live in SA, endorsed to work, study, or conduct business. Unlike a general work visa, you don't need a specific job offer or qualification. You need a valid marriage registered in SA (or proof of 2+ years of cohabitation for life-partners), and to have complied with all visa conditions.
When to hire a spousal & relative visas attorney
- You married (or are in a life-partnership with) an SA citizen/PR holder.
- Your spousal visa was rejected and needs appeal.
- You want to apply for PR after 5 years of spousal visa.
- Home Affairs refuses to recognise a customary or foreign marriage.
- You need to register a foreign marriage for immigration purposes.
What to expect
Apply at VFS with marriage certificate (apostilled if foreign), police clearance, medical/radiological reports, proof of cohabitation, and your SA spouse's ID. For life partners, prove financial interdependence (joint accounts, shared lease). Processing: 8-15 weeks. Endorsements for work/study/business must be specifically requested.
Typical fees
Spousal visa application: R8,000-R20,000. Appeals after rejection: R20,000-R80,000. Registering foreign marriages: R3,000-R8,000.
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