About applying for a relative’s permit

 If you are a foreigner who is an immediate family member of a South African citizen or permanent resident, you may apply for a relative’s permit.

Your South African relative must be willing and able to support you financially for the duration of your stay.  The relative’s permit is issued for a maximum period of two years.

You will not be allowed to conduct work, study or enter into any business activities while still in possession of the relative’s permit.

Note: An immediate family refers to a biological or judicially adopted child, adoptive parent/s and spouse.

What you should do

• Go to your nearest Home Affairs office or South African representative if you are applying from abroad.
• Complete form BI-1738.
• Your passport must be valid for no less than 30 days after the expiry of your intended visit.
  
• Bring the following:
• a medical report  and radiological report (not required for pregnant women or children younger than 12 years)
• a vaccination certificate, if required
• cash deposit of equivalent value of your return ticket to your country of origin or residence. (not required if you are the spouse or dependent children of the South African citizen/ permanent resident).
• statement and/ or documents confirming purpose and duration of visit and proof that you are a relative of the South African citizen/ permanent resident. (Full birth certificate if you are a child of the South African citizen/ permanent resident; Full marriage certificate if you are the spouse of the South African citizen/ permanent resident; proof of kinship if you are anything but a spouse or child)
• a police clearance from all countries you lived in since the age of 18 for 12 months or longer
• temporary residence permit, if applicable
• proof of South African citizenship or permanent residence of your relative in South Africa in the form of an identity document or passport
• proof of a minimum amount of R 5 000 per month, per person (not required if you are the spouse or dependent children of the South African citizen/permanent resident).
  

Timeframe

It might take six months to finalise your application.

How much does it cost

• If you are a  spouse or dependent child - Free
• If you are other next of kin - R425

Forms to complete

*Application for temporary residence permit, BI-1738

Note: *Special specifications and requirements regarding the processing of this form apply and it may therefore not be downloaded for use as an application or registration form. All forms are available at any regional or district office of the Department.

Who to contact