ACCOMPANYING MINOR VISA
Children accompanying a parent holding a temporary residence visa must obtain a Visitor Visa under Section 11(1)(b)(iv) of the Immigration Act, 2002 (Act No. 13 of 2002)
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WHAT IS AN ACCOMPANYING MINOR VISA?
This visa permits the child to lawfully reside in South Africa with their parent during the parent’s work assignment, retirement, or other valid visa status. Typically, these visas are valid for 2 to 3 years or for the duration of the main applicant’s visa.
WHAT IS NEEDED TO QUALIFY FOR AN ACCOMPANYING MINOR VISA?
To qualify, you must be the biological or legally adopted child of the main applicant or temporary residence visa holder.
As the child of a South African temporary residence visa holder (such as a work visa or retired person visa), you are legally required to apply for a Visitor Visa under Section 11(1)(b)(iv) of the Immigration Act.
This visa allows you to lawfully reside in South Africa with your parent during their work assignment or retirement period. However, it does not permit you to work, study, or conduct business while in South Africa.
CAN I STUDY IN SOUTH AFRICA WHILE ON AN ACCOMPANYING MINOR VISA?
Children under the age of 7, who are not yet of school-going age, may attend kindergarten or preparatory schools using an Accompanying Minor Visa, as permitted by the Immigration Act.
Children aged 7 and above must apply for a Study Visa to legally attend school in South Africa. It is permitted for the accompanying children to apply for a Study Visa, in place of the Visitor’s VIsa in terms of section 11(1)(b)(iv), while accompanying their parent, being the main visa holder.