|
Dependent Qualification for South Africa Permanent Residency Application When applying for permanent residency in South Africa, you may be allowed to include dependents in your application. Here a detailed explanation of who qualifies as a dependent: Definition of a Dependent A dependent is a family member who relies on the main applicant (the person applying for permanent residency) for financial support. Qualifying Dependents The following family members may qualify as dependents: 1. Spouse: Your husband or wife, including same-sex spouses. 2. Children: Your biological or adopted children under the age of 18. 3. Step-children: Your spouse's biological or adopted children under the age of 18. 4. Parents: Your biological or adoptive parents, if they are dependent on you for financial support. 5. In-laws: Your spouse's parents, if they are dependent on you for financial support. Requirements for Dependents To qualify as a dependent, the family member must: 1. Be financially dependent: The dependent must rely on the main applicant for financial support. 2. Meet the age requirement: Children and step-children must be under the age of 18. 3. Provide documentation: You must provide documentation to prove the dependent's relationship to you, such as birth certificates, marriage certificates, or adoption papers. Documentation Required for Dependents You'll need to provide the following documentation for each dependent: 1. Birth certificate: A certified copy of the dependent's birth certificate. 2. Marriage certificate: A certified copy of your marriage certificate (if applicable). 3. Adoption papers: A certified copy of the adoption papers (if applicable). 4. Proof of financial dependence: Documentation to prove that the dependent relies on you for financial support, such as bank statements or tax returns. Application Process for Dependents When applying for permanent residency, you'll need to include your dependents in your application. Here's an overview of the process: 1. Complete the main application form 2. Add dependents to the application 3. Pay the application fee 4. Submit the application Timeline and Processing The processing time for permanent residency applications, including dependents, can vary. Here's a general outline: 1. Submission: You submit your application, including all required documentation. 2. Processing: Your application is reviewed, and you may be required to attend an interview (takes approximately 12-24 months). 3. Decision: You'll receive a decision on your application, including the outcome for your dependents. Please note that the timeline may vary depending on the complexity of your application and the workload of the Department of Home Affairs. Resource - Immigration Act, 2002 (Act No. 13 of 2002): |