Visiting the United States is about to become significantly more expensive for African travellers, following a new policy that introduces a hefty $250 “visa integrity fee” for most nonimmigrant visa applicants.
U.S. introduces $250 visa integrity fee, raising barriers for African applicants
• The United States introduces a $250 'visa integrity fee' for nonimmigrant visa applicants from African nations, significantly increasing visa costs.
• The fee, enacted under the One Big Beautiful Bill Act of 2025, is non-waivable and in addition to existing visa-related fees.
• Critics argue the new policy creates financial barriers and may discourage travel to Recommended articles

This fee is an inside part of the recently signed One Big Beautiful Bill Act, enacted by U.S. lawmakers on July 4, 2025, and is expected to take effect later this year.
According to immigration legal firm Envoy Global, the new fee will apply to any foreign national issued a nonimmigrant visa, particularly from an African country, whether as a student, tourist, temporary worker or business visitor.

The $250 "visa integrity fee" is non-waivable and non-reducible, and will be charged in addition to existing visa-related fees, including machine-readable visa (MRV) application fees, anti-fraud fees, and reciprocity fees.

This means a single visa application for a Nigerian, Ghanaian, or Kenyan citizen could now cost as much as $500, excluding documentation and travel expenses.

What this means for African tourists, students' applications
African students applying for F-1 and F-2 visas, exchange visitors on J-1 and J-2 visas, and professionals applying for H1-B and H-4 temporary work visas will all be subject to the new levy, likewise African tourists visiting family or attending events in the U.S. will bear the increased cost.

For many Africans, the new fee is both a financial barrier and a symbolic discouragement.
Notably, citizens from 42 countries, mostly in Europe, Canada, Bermuda, and a few Asian and Gulf nations, are exempt under the U.S. Visa Waiver Program.
These travellers won't be affected if visiting for under 90 days. In contrast, African nations are entirely excluded from the program, perpetuating the continent's disadvantage in terms of access and mobility.

As the U.S. prepares to host major global events like the 2026 FIFA World Cup and the 2028 Summer Olympics in Los Angeles, experts warn that the recent visa fee hike could significantly reduce international attendance, particularly from countries in Africa, South America, Asia, and the Middle East.

These countries already face long waiting periods and high visa denial rates, which could worsen with the added financial burden.
Although the U.S. claims the funds from the fee will go into the Treasury's general fund, there's no indication that the money will be reinvested in improving consular services or reducing processing delays, a longstanding challenge for African applicants.

Even while there are claims that the fee is refundable, there are no guarantees or clear mechanisms for reimbursement.
Geoff Freeman, President and CEO of the U.S. Travel Association, has strongly criticized the new rule, calling it "a self-inflicted wound." He emphasized the psychology behind the hike, stating that,

“These fees are not reinvested in improving the travel experience and do nothing but discourage visitation at a time when foreign travellers are already concerned about the welcome experience and high prices”

For many Africans, including students seeking education, entrepreneurs pursuing U.S. business opportunities, families reuniting, or tourists exploring cultural exchange, the new fee presents both a financial barrier and a symbolic message.
As global discussions on travel equity and visa reform continue, the U.S. appears to be moving in the opposite direction, erecting higher walls when the world is calling for more bridges

The short answer
You can apply for a Section 26 (B) Life Partner Permit, which is a permanent resident permit that caters for people who are in a long term relationship, but who have not married, as in your case.

The whole question
I am a permanent resident. I have also applied for permanent residence permits for our three children.

My wife of 15 has a ZEP (Zimbabwean Exemption Permit). We are not legally married but we have a registered Life Partnership Agreement. Lobola has been paid but no white wedding. Can I still apply for a relative visa for her?

The long answer
Thank you for your email asking whether you can apply for a relative visa for your wife of 15 years.
You can apply for a Section 26 (B) Life Partner Permit, which is a permanent resident permit that caters for people who are in a long term relationship, but who have not married, as in your case.

Life partners who want to apply for temporary residence based on a life partner visa will need to prove that they have been together for two years before applying for the permit, and prove shared finances for each of those years. Those applying for permanent residency will need to prove that they have been together for five years and prove shared finances for each of those years. This would involve shared bills, bank statements, assets and debts
You will need to prove emotional support as well and both of you will be interviewed separately at the same time to satisfy Home Affairs that the relationship is genuine. Home Affairs specifies that “such relationship must be intended to be permanent, exclude any other person and involve cohabitation, an obligation of mutual emotional support between the parties and a reciprocal obligation to support one another financially …”

You will also need to provide a Life Partnership Agreement which has been registered with the Deeds Office, and a spousal affidavit (Part A on form 12) confirming that your relationship is ongoing. If the visa is issued, a spousal affidavit (Part B on form 12) must be submitted to Home Affairs within two years to confirm that your relationship is still ongoing.

You will need to submit proof of your permanent residence permit, and identity document and a letter of support from you as the permanent resident. Your partner’s ZEP permit, her police clearance certificate, plus her passport, medical and radiological reports will all need to be submitted. You will also need to submit proof of your shared address plus proof of payment for the application to VFS Global and Home Affairs.

As stated above, if your partner is granted permanent residency, she will have to confirm to Home Affairs in the last six months of the second year that she is still in a permanent relationship with you.

This type of South African relationship or life companion permit is available to individuals in legally recognized relationships and can be applied for as either a temporary residence permit or a permanent residence permit, depending on the length of the union or relationshipship in question.

Foreign nationals who are relationships of South African citizens or permanent residents may apply for permanent residence. To qualify, the relationship must have existed for more than five years.

As a country that acknowledges diverse relationshipships and grants them the same legal recognition, South Africa issues relationship permits to individuals in all legally recognized relationships.

The relationship permit falls under the relatives' visa category and is renewable. The visa is typically issued for 36 months at a time but cannot exceed the validity period of the passport. It is a temporary residency visa available to foreign nationals who can demonstrate a committed relationship with a South African citizen or permanent resident holder. The couple must provide proof of a relationship longer than two years.

If you intend to study or work while in South Africa, you must apply for the necessary rights to be added to your visa. Individuals on a relationship permit may request either study, business, or work rights, but not all three. This means that if a work authorization is granted, you may only be employed by an approved employer.

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Yes, it is absolutely possible to operate more than one business in South Africa—both for South African citizens and foreign nationals. However, the process and legal requirements depend on several factors, including business registration, ownership structure, tax compliance, and, for foreign nationals, their visa or permit conditions.

This detailed explanation outlines the legal framework, visa regulations, business structures, and key considerations when operating multiple businesses in South Africa.

1. Legal Framework for Operating Multiple Businesses

In South Africa, businesses are governed by the following acts and regulatory authorities:

• Companies Act, 2008 (Act No. 71 of 2008): Establishes rules for registering and operating companies.

• CIPC (Companies and Intellectual Property Commission): Regulates company registrations and filings.

• South African Revenue Service (SARS): Ensures tax compliance and VAT registration.

• Labour Laws: Govern employee relations, wages, and conditions.

• Department of Trade, Industry and Competition (DTIC): Oversees compliance with sector-specific regulations.

Multiple Business Ownership

• An individual or legal entity (such as a company or trust) can own multiple businesses, either as separate legal entities or divisions under one company.

• These businesses can operate in different industries or the same sector.

• Each business may be required to have separate registrations for tax, VAT, and employment compliance depending on its structure.

2. Business Structures for Multiple Businesses

(a) Separate Legal Entities (Multiple Companies)

• Each business is registered as a separate company (e.g., Pty Ltd) with its own registration number and legal identity.

• Suitable for businesses operating in different industries or those needing distinct branding and financial accounts.

• Offers limited liability protection and tax benefits, but requires separate annual filings with CIPC and tax returns with SARS.

(b) Holding Company and Subsidiaries

• A holding company (parent company) owns subsidiary companies, which operate independently but are connected by ownership.

• This structure allows businesses to share resources while keeping operations distinct.

• Ideal for scaling businesses or expanding into new sectors without forming entirely unrelated entities.

(c) Single Company with Multiple Divisions

• One legal entity operates multiple divisions under its umbrella.

• Each division can have separate branding and operations, but profits and taxes are consolidated under the parent company’s tax profile.

• Easier to manage but may lack financial and legal separation, making it riskier in cases of liability claims.

3. Foreign Nationals and Multiple Businesses

Foreign nationals must adhere to immigration laws to operate multiple businesses in South Africa. The following scenarios explain how this can be done:

(a) Business Visa Holders

Foreigners on a business visa can establish and operate only the business specified in their visa application. However:

• They can amend their visa to include additional businesses by submitting a new business plan and proving they meet investment and employment criteria for each business.

• Alternatively, they can apply for a separate business visa for each new venture.

Key Requirements for Business Visa Amendments:

• Minimum investment of R5 million (unless waived by the Department of Home Affairs).

• Proof that at least 60% of employees in the new business are South African citizens or permanent residents.

• A feasibility study showing the viability of the new business.

(b) Permanent Residents or Work Visa Holders

• Foreigners with permanent residence in South Africa are treated the same as citizens and can operate multiple businesses without visa restrictions.

• Foreigners on work visas (e.g., general work visa or critical skills visa) must convert to a business visa to establish or own businesses.

4. Tax and Compliance Requirements

(a) Tax Registrations

• Each business must be registered with SARS for income tax and possibly VAT if annual turnover exceeds R1 million.

• Separate businesses must submit independent tax returns unless operating under a holding company structure.

(b) Financial Records

• Maintain separate accounting records for each business.

• Prepare annual financial statements and file them with CIPC where applicable.

(c) Employment Compliance

• Each business must register with:

1. UIF (Unemployment Insurance Fund) for employee benefits.

2. COIDA (Compensation for Occupational Injuries and Diseases Act) for workplace insurance.

3. PAYE (Pay-As-You-Earn) for employee tax deductions.

5. Practical Examples of Multiple Business Ownership

Scenario 1: Single Entrepreneur with Separate Companies

A foreign entrepreneur opens a restaurant under a Pty Ltd structure and later decides to open a clothing store.

• They register two independent legal entities and manage them separately.

• Each business has unique tax profiles and financial statements.

Scenario 2: Parent Company with Subsidiaries

A South African IT consultancy establishes a parent company and creates subsidiaries for software development and hardware sales.

• Profits are consolidated at the holding company level.

• Subsidiaries have operational independence but share branding and administration resources.

6. Challenges of Operating Multiple Businesses

1. Administrative Burden:

o Separate businesses require multiple registrations, tax filings, and compliance audits, which can be costly and time-consuming.

2. Visa Limitations for Foreigners:

o Foreigners on a business visa must comply with investment and employment criteria for each business, increasing costs and delays.

3. Risk Management:

o Operating unrelated businesses under one entity can expose all divisions to legal risks if one business faces lawsuits or insolvency.

4. Labour Compliance:

o Employing workers across multiple businesses requires strict adherence to South African labour laws, including contracts, benefits, and workplace safety regulations.

7. Conclusion

Yes, it is possible to operate more than one business in South Africa, whether as separate legal entities, subsidiaries, or divisions under a single company.

For South African citizens and permanent residents, the process is straightforward, while foreign nationals face additional visa requirements. Foreigners holding a business visa may need to amend their visa or apply for a new one to include additional businesses.

Proper tax registration, labour law compliance, and financial management are essential when operating multiple businesses to avoid penalties and legal complications. Consulting a legal advisor or immigration consultant is recommended to navigate these requirements effectively.

How can we help you , please email us to info@samigration.com or whatsapp message me on: +27 82 373 8415, where are you now? check our website : www.samigration.com

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examines whether utilizing the services of a professional immigration agency offers advantages during the retired visa application process. Below is an in-depth analysis.

1. Understanding the Retired Visa Application Process

The retired visa application process requires compliance with South African immigration laws and regulations. The process includes:

• Completing detailed application forms.

• Compiling and submitting supporting documentation.

• Meeting financial and medical requirements.

• Dealing with South Africa's Department of Home Affairs (DHA), which can have variable processing times and strict requirements.

Even though applicants can apply on their own, the complexity of the process makes many consider professional assistance.

2. Role of an Immigration Agency

An immigration agency specializes in assisting clients with visa and residency applications. Their services often include:

1. Pre-Assessment: Assessing the applicant’s eligibility for the retired visa.

2. Document Preparation: Guiding applicants on the required documents and ensuring accuracy.

3. Compliance: Ensuring all submissions meet legal and regulatory requirements.

4. Submission and Follow-Up: Managing the application process with DHA or South African consulates abroad.

5. Problem Resolution: Handling potential complications, such as delays or rejected applications.

3. Benefits of Using an Immigration Agency

Here’s why it might be beneficial to use an immigration agency:

A. Expert Knowledge

• Immigration agencies are well-versed in South Africa’s Immigration Act and regulations.

• They stay updated on policy changes that could affect visa applications, such as changes to financial thresholds or documentation requirements.

B. Time Efficiency

• Agencies streamline the process by ensuring applications are complete and error-free, reducing the likelihood of delays or rejections.

• They manage communication with DHA, which can save the applicant significant time.

C. Navigating Bureaucracy

• Dealing with DHA or South African embassies can be challenging due to inefficiencies and backlogs. Agencies often have experience navigating these issues effectively.

D. Reducing Risk of Rejection

• Visa rejections are often due to incomplete documentation, errors, or failure to meet specific criteria. Agencies mitigate this risk by ensuring all requirements are met.

E. Personalized Guidance

• Agencies provide tailored advice, such as alternative options for meeting financial requirements (e.g., proving a lump sum vs. monthly income).

• They guide applicants on additional endorsements, such as the ability to work or study if applicable.

F. Support for Foreign Applicants

• Non-South African nationals may find the process particularly complex due to unfamiliarity with local laws, language barriers, or challenges in obtaining South African police clearances. Agencies provide critical support in these areas.

4. Potential Drawbacks

While there are significant advantages, there are some considerations to keep in mind:

A. Cost

• Immigration agency services come with additional fees on top of government visa fees. Applicants need to weigh this cost against the benefits provided.

B. Reliability of the Agency

• Not all agencies operate at the same level of professionalism. Choosing an unqualified or unethical agency can lead to complications.

C. DIY Alternative

• For applicants who are confident in navigating bureaucratic processes and have straightforward applications, hiring an agency may not be necessary.

5. Key Scenarios Where an Agency is Especially Beneficial

• Complex Financial Documentation: For retirees with diverse income sources (e.g., pensions, annuities, investments), agencies can ensure proper documentation and presentation.

• Past Visa Rejections: Applicants with prior rejections can benefit from professional guidance to address the underlying issues.

• Time Constraints: Applicants on tight timelines benefit from the efficiency and expertise of an agency.

• Language Barriers: Applicants who are not fluent in English may struggle to complete forms or communicate with DHA.

6. How to Choose a Reliable Immigration Agency

• Accreditation: Verify the agency is registered with professional bodies like the Forum of Immigration Practitioners of South Africa (FIPSA).

• Track Record: Research client reviews and testimonials.

• Transparency: Ensure they provide clear information about fees and services.

• Specialization: Choose an agency experienced specifically in retired visa applications.

7. DIY Application vs. Agency Assistance

Aspect DIY Application With Immigration Agency

Cost Lower (only government fees) Higher (agency fees added)

Time Investment High (self-managed) Lower (agency handles process)

Risk of Rejection Higher (errors or incomplete application) Lower (agency ensures compliance)

Knowledge Requirements High (research required) Low (agency provides expertise)

8. Conclusion

Hiring an immigration agency to assist with the retired visa application in South Africa can be highly beneficial, especially for applicants who:

• Are unfamiliar with South African immigration laws.

• Have complex financial situations or limited time.

• Face potential challenges, such as language barriers or past rejections.

The decision ultimately depends on the applicant's comfort with the process, financial capacity to pay for agency services, and willingness to handle the bureaucracy independently. For those seeking a smoother, more efficient process with reduced risks of rejection, engaging a professional immigration agency is a valuable investment.

How can we help you , please email us to info@samigration.com or whatsapp message me on: +27 82 373 8415, where are you now? check our website : www.samigration.com

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Sa Migration Visas

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How can we help you?
Please email us to info@samigration.com
Whatsapp message us on: +27 82 373 8415

Where are you now?
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Sa Migration Visas
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