ACCOMPANYING SPOUSE VISA
When opportunity knocks on your door, the last thing one would want to do is leave a loved one behind. With an accompanying spouse visa, you will be able to reside in South Africa while your spouse / life partner is working.
MORE INFORMATION
WHAT IS AN ACCOMPANYING SPOUSE VISA?
WHAT IS NEEDED TO QUALIFY FOR AN ACCOMPANYING SPOUSE VISA?
You need to provide proof of marriage or life partnership agreement with a South African temporary resident visa holder.
WHY US?
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Frequently asked Questions (FAQ)
1. What is an Accompanying Spouse Visa in South Africa?
An Accompanying Spouse Visa allows the spouse or life partner of a foreign national (who holds a valid South African temporary residence visa) to live in South Africa for the same period as the main visa holder.
2. Who qualifies for an Accompanying Spouse Visa?
You qualify if you are:
- Legally married to the main visa holder, or
- In a permanent life partnership (proof required)
- Accompanying a spouse who has a valid visa (e.g., Work, Study, or Business Visa)
3. Can I work or study on an Accompanying Spouse Visa?
No, not by default. To work, study, or run a business, you must apply for an authorisation to conduct an activity (in terms of Section 11(6)) linked to the spouse visa — or apply for a separate visa that allows those activities.
4. What documents are required for an Accompanying Spouse Visa?
Typical requirements include:
- Certified copy of marriage certificate or proof of partnership
- Valid passport
- Copy of the main visa holder’s permit
- Proof of cohabitation and shared financial responsibilities (for life partners)
- Medical & radiology reports
- Police clearance certificates
- Completed DHA-1738 form and VFS submission
5. How long is the Accompanying Spouse Visa valid for?
It is usually issued for the same duration as the main visa holder’s permit (e.g., 1 to 5 years). It can be renewed or extended along with the main applicant’s visa.
6. Can I apply for an Accompanying Spouse Visa from inside South Africa?
Generally, no — you must apply from your home country or country of legal residence. South Africa does not allow a change of status from a visitor visa to a spouse visa from within the country (unless exceptional circumstances apply).
7. What is required to prove a life partnership if we’re not married?
You must submit:
- A notarised affidavit confirming the partnership
- Proof of shared residence (e.g., lease agreements, utility bills)
- Evidence of shared financial responsibilities
- Joint bank accounts, affidavits from family/friends, or photos together
8. How long does the visa take to process?
Processing times vary, but typically:
- Overseas applications: 6–10 weeks
- In South Africa (extensions or authorised activity additions): 8–12 weeks
Delays may occur depending on documentation, volume, or home affairs capacity.
9. Does the Accompanying Spouse Visa lead to permanent residence?
Yes, it can. If you’ve lived in South Africa as a spouse of a South African citizen or permanent resident for 5 years, you may apply for permanent residence. Time spent on a spouse visa (linked to a foreign national) does not automatically count unless transitioning to a PR pathway.
10. Do we need to live together in South Africa for the visa to stay valid?
Yes. Continued cohabitation and a genuine relationship are required. Home Affairs may investigate or request evidence of your relationship especially during extensions or PR applications.