Permanent Residence
Applying for permanent residence is probably the biggest step that someone can take in their process of immigration. Once you have permanent residence, you can live in South Africa indefinitely, and work in the country. Your spouse can join you, and you can settle down and grow some roots. You can apply for permanent residence if:
- you have been working in South Africa legally for 5 years
- you have received an offer of permanent employment in South Africa
- you want to establish or invest in a business in South Africa
- you have been married to a South African citizen/permanent resident for 5 years
- you are the child of a South African citizen
- you have exceptional skills to offer to the South African economy
- you want to retire in South Africa (subject to proof of a certain net worth and income)
- you are a legal refugee in South Africa
Of course, there are certain conditions pertaining to the categories listed above. The basic conditions are that, in the case of an employee, you must have an offer of permanent employment in South Africa. Children of a South African citizen who are under the age of 18 years will need to re-apply for permanent residence once they turn 21. Also, in the case of refugees, your presence in South Africa needs to be completely legal.
Listed below are the documentary requirements (the paperwork) that you need to meet when applying for permanent residence.
- Form BI-947 – available from the Department of Home Affairs
- One passport photograph – a recent photo with your full names and surname written on the back
- Your valid passport or identity document – you may submit certified copies
- Your full birth certificate – you may submit a certified copy
- Where applicable, documentation surrounding any change of name or gender
- A medical report, not older than six months
- A radiological report, not older than six months
- Your police clearance certificate(s), for every country that you have lived in for longer than one year
- Where applicable, your marriage certificate or documentary proof of co-habitation and financial arrangements within the spousal relationship
- Where applicable, your divorce decree or relevant court papers regarding legal separation and custody and maintenance of any children
- Where applicable, the death certificate of your deceased spouse
- In the case of a minor child, written consent of both parents
- If you are going to be working in South Africa, your educational and trade certificates, as evaluated by the South African Qualifications Authority
- If you are going to be working in South Africa, your work references or certificates of service of previous employment
It may sound like you have a lot to do, but as you can see, it is all completely logical. Obtaining permanent residence is a serious matter, and if you approach it on that basis, you should have a smooth and successful application process.
