About applying for a retired persons permit

If you are a retired person who intends to retire in South Africa, you may apply for a temporary residence permit under the category of retired persons.

To apply for the retired persons permit, you must provide evidence that you are financially secure, in the form of a lifelong pension or proof that you are receiving income of not less than R20 000 per month.

The retired persons permit is issued for a period of up to four years and it may be renewed.

What you should do

• Go to your nearest Home Affairs office or South African representative if you are applying from abroad.
• Complete form DHA-1738 if abroad or DHA 1740 if applying in South Africa.
• Your passport must be valid for no less than 30 days after the expiry of your intended visit.
• Submit the following:
• medical and radiological report 
• a vaccination certificate, if required 
• proof of financial means of:
• your minimum value of R20 000 per month or an irrevocable retirement annuity or retirement account to the equivalent amount, or a net worth providing an income of at least R20 000 per month
• a valid temporary residence permit, if applicable 
• a police clearance from all countries you lived in since the age of 18 for 12 months or longer
• cash deposit equivalent value to a return or onward ticket.
  

Note: The immigration act requires you to enter South Africa on a temporary residence permit commensurate with the intended activity to be taken in the country.

Timeframe

It might take a month to finalise your application.

How much does it cost

R 425

Forms to complete

Application for temporary residence permit, BI-1738

Who to contact