Visas & Immigration

Learn how to apply for visas, residence, and citizenship in South Africa, whether you are immigrating for love, to find work, as a student, or simply for adventure.

South Africa House in Trafalgar Square, London, with the national flag of South Africa flying from a flagpole.

How to immigrate to South Africa: visas in 2026

Want to visit, live, work, or study in Mzansi? Learn how to choose the correct visa for South Africa based on your situation.

How to apply for a relative permit or spousal visa in South Africa

To qualify for a relatives, life partner or spousal permit in South Africa, your accompanying partner or family member must be working in South Africa or hold South African citizenship or permanent residence.

South Africa flag hanging from a building

Getting a South African work visa

Did you get a job offer from a South African company? Congratulations are in order, but before you celebrate, make sure that you learn more about the process of applying for a work visa for South Africa.

Permanent residence in South Africa

Discover how to apply for permanent residence in South Africa, including who is eligible, the costs, and where to appeal if it is rejected.

Guide to citizenship: how to become a citizen in South Africa

Discover more about citizenship in South Africa, including all of the requirements and how to go about submitting an application.

Student visas and permits for South Africa

Find what you need to study abroad in South Africa, including requirements for student visas and application forms.