South Africa Permanent Residency
This program grants permanent residency directly and therefore allow successful applicants to work, study or manage their own business in South Africa. This program requires a minimum net-worth of ZAR 12,000,000 (USD 632,000)
South Africa Permanent Residency Benefits
Residency and Family Inclusion
- Grants permanent residence status in South Africa, thereby having all the rights and duties of a South Africa citizen (except the right to vote).
- Grants the possibility to apply for a Non-Citizen Identity Book.
Dependents can be included:
- Spouse /Life-partner in a spousal relationship for over 5 years
- Children up to 21 years.
- Any age if medical dependent due to handicap or such but must be confirmed by doctors.
Travel and Quality of Life
- Reside, work, study, retire and start a business in South Africa.
- South Africa is a business hub on the African continent with a fast-paced real estate market, exceptional private healthcare and developed tourism industry.
Ease of Access
- No age requirement and open to all nationalities.
- No investment or residency required.
- Valid indefinitely.
- Pathway to South African citizenship after 10 years, or sooner with sufficient motivation, provided the applicant has proof of the prescribed minimum net worth of at least ZAR 12,000,000 (Approx. USD 678,516).
South Africa Permanent Residency Requirements
- The applicant must not be a prohibited or an undesirable person.
- Must not have been refused entry into South Africa.
- Should not have entered or stayed illegally in South Africa.
- Must have sufficient economic means to cover their personal and family living expenses.
South Africa Permanent Residency Investment Options
Donation
- Pay an application fee of ZAR 120,000 (USD 6,785) directly to the Director General upon approval of the application.
- Once the application is granted, the applicant must enter South Africa at least once every 3 years.
South Africa Permanent Residency Process
South Africa PR Processing time 8 Months
Due Diligence And Application
- Prepare all application forms, supporting documentation and payment of application fee.
- Submission of application, in person, in the applicant’s country of origin, permanent residence and long-term temporary residence.
Approval And Investment
Once approved, payment of ZAR 120,000 to the Director General.
Residency
Successful applicants will immediately receive permanent residence by investment in South Africa.
Contact us
With over 30 years of immigration experience, each of Harvey Law Group’s lawyers carefully studies each client’s needs, resources and determines the immigration solution that best aligns with our client’s vision and values.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a Financially Independent Permit for South Africa?
The Financially Independent Permit for South Africa grants permanent residency to high-net-worth individuals, allowing them to work, retire, or study in South Africa without relying on local income.
Who is eligible to apply for permanent residency in South Africa?
Eligibility for permanent residency in South Africa requires a net worth of at least ZAR 12,000,000, a ZAR 120,000 fee upon approval, a clean criminal record, and sufficient funds for personal and family expenses.
Are there any age restrictions for applying for permanent residency in South Africa?
There is no age limit for the main applicant seeking South African Permanent Residency; however, dependents over 21 years cannot be included unless medically dependent.
Who qualifies as a dependent in the South Africa permanent residency application?
Dependents on the application include spouses or life partners of over five years, children under 21, and any age if medically dependent.
Is a criminal background check required for the application?
Applicants over 18 must provide a recent police clearance from every country they’ve lived in for 12 months or more after turning 18.
What evidence is needed for a South Africa permanent residency application?
Proof of a minimum net worth of ZAR 12,000,000 is needed, including documentation of properties, investments, and liquid assets.
Have pilots been successfully approved for the EB-2 NIW?
In what languages must documents be submitted for the application?
All foreign documents must be translated into English by a certified translator and presented in original or certified form.
Are all pilots eligible for the NIW EB2?
Who is ineligible for a permanent residence permit in South Africa?
Individuals classified as prohibited or undesirable are not eligible for permanent residency until their status is officially cleared.
Can a dependent be added after the initial application?
Dependents can be added to the South Africa residency application post-issuance of the residency certificate; additional fees may apply.
Does the application process include an interview?
The residency application process may include an interview and biometric data collection at an embassy or consulate.
Is there a residency requirement for maintaining permanent residency?
Permanent Residency in South Africa does not require ongoing residency but mandates a move to South Africa within one year and re-entry at least every three years.
Does the permanent residence permit ever expire?
Permanent Residency permits do not expire and remain valid indefinitely unless revoked due to specific violations.
Can permanent residency in South Africa be revoked?
South African Permanent Residence can be revoked if the holder commits offenses under the Immigration Act, breaches permit conditions, leaves South Africa for over three years without exemption, or fails to establish residence within a year of permit issuance.
Can permanent residents apply for citizenship? If so, when?
Permanent residency holders can pursue citizenship after 10 years, potentially sooner with adequate justification.
What documentation is issued upon completion of the permanent residence permit application?
Upon approval, a Permanent Residence Permit certificate is issued, which becomes valid upon entry into South Africa; lost certificates are replaced with a confirmation letter only.
Where should the payment of ZAR 120,000 for the financially independent permanent residence application be made?
Payment of the ZAR 120,000 fee for the Financially Independent Permanent Residence application must be made to the specified Department of Home Affairs account.
What is the exact net worth requirement for the Financially Independent Visa?
The minimum net worth requirement for the Financially Independent Visa in South Africa is ZAR 12 million (approximately $640,000 USD). This amount must be verifiable through documentation of assets, investments, and liquid funds.
How long does the application process typically take?
The processing time for a Financially Independent Permit application is usually around 8 months. However, this can vary depending on individual circumstances and the completeness of the application.
Are there any restrictions on how I can use my permanent residency status?
While South Africa permanent residents enjoy most rights of citizens, they cannot vote or hold a South African passport. However, they can freely work, study, or run a business in South Africa.
Do I need to invest my funds in South Africa to qualify?
No, there is no requirement to invest the funds in South Africa. Your assets can remain in any country, as long as you can prove the required net worth.
How often do I need to visit South Africa to maintain my permanent residency?
To maintain your permanent residency status, you must enter South Africa at least once every three years.
Can my family members be included in my application?
Are there any tax implications I should be aware of before applying for SA Permanent Residency Program?
While the content doesn’t specifically address tax implications, it’s important to consult with a tax professional about potential tax consequences of obtaining permanent residency in South Africa.
What happens if my financial situation changes after obtaining permanent residency?
The provided information doesn’t cover this scenario. It would be advisable to consult with immigration authorities or a legal professional about the implications of significant changes in financial status after obtaining permanent residency.
Can I apply for citizenship after obtaining permanent residency through this visa?
Yes, permanent residents can pursue citizenship after 10 years, or potentially sooner with adequate justification.
What documents are typically required for the application?
While a comprehensive list isn’t provided, you’ll likely need proof of net worth, police clearance certificates, medical reports, and various application forms. It’s best to consult with immigration authorities or a legal professional for a complete list.
Does Harvey Law Group have an office in South Africa?
Harvey Law Group has an office in South Africa, specifically located in Johannesburg 2nd Floor Max Serviced Offices 145 Second St, Parkmore, Sandton, 2196 South Africa. (Google Maps)