|
Core Eligibility Requirements 1. Mandatory Cohabitation - The couple must have lived together for two consecutive years before applying. This is non-negotiable under South African immigration law . - Proof includes joint lease agreements, utility bills, and affidavits from landlords or neighbors confirming shared residence . 2. Current Cohabitation Status - The Department of Home Affairs (DHA) requires the couple to live together at the time of application. Temporary separations (e.g., work trips) are permissible, but the relationship must remain intact, and the couple must intend to resume cohabitation . Applying from Different Countries 1. No Exceptions for Long-Distance Relationships - Couples living in separate countries cannot meet the two-year cohabitation requirement and are therefore ineligible for the visa . - The DHA does not recognize relationships where partners have not shared a household for the mandated period . 2. Alternative Pathways - Visitor’s Visa (Section 11.6): Allows short-term stays (up to 90 days) to begin cohabitation in South Africa. After two years of living together, the couple can then apply for the life partner visa . - Work/Business/Study Visa: The foreign partner may apply for a visa in their own right, enabling them to live in South Africa and start cohabiting with their partner . Special Cases and Workarounds 1. Prior Cohabitation Abroad - If the couple previously cohabited for two years in another country, they may submit proof (e.g., foreign lease agreements, utility bills) to meet the requirement. This is subject to DHA approval and additional scrutiny . 2. Engagement or Future Intent - Fiancé(e) status does not qualify for the life partner visa. The couple must already have a proven, cohabitative relationship of two years . Steps for Couples Living Apart 1. Relocate to South Africa: The foreign partner can enter on a tourist or work visa and begin cohabiting with their South African partner. After two years, apply for the life partner visa . 2. Apply for a Different Visa Category: Use work, study, or business visas to establish residency in South Africa, then transition to the life partner visa after fulfilling the cohabitation requirement . Key Considerations - Notarial Contract: A legally recognized cohabitation agreement (Apostilled) is required, confirming exclusivity, financial interdependence, and the relationship’s permanence . - Visa Validity: The life partner visa is issued for 2–3 years and can be renewed if the relationship persists. Separation or permanent relocation invalidates the visa immediately . Summary Couples living in different countries cannot apply for a South African life partner visa unless they have already cohabited for two years (either in South Africa or abroad) and provide documented proof. For long-distance partners, the only pathway is to establish residency in South Africa through alternative visas and fulfill the cohabitation requirement first. If case is complex consultant an immigration practitioner like ourselves to assist you How can we help you , please email us to info@samigration.com whatsapp message me on: +27 82 373 8415, where are you now? check our website : www.samigration.com Please rate us by clinking on this links : Sa Migration Visas https://g.page/SAMigration?gm |
