WHAT IS A PERMANENT RESIDENCE PERMIT?

A permanent residence permit may be issued to a qualifying applicant that is able to meet the requirements set for the specific category of permit applied for. Once issued, the holder of a permanent residence permit has all the rights, privileges, duties and obligations of a citizen unless restricted by a specific law or the constitution. For example, a South African Permanent Resident holder does not have the right to vote.

 

HOW WOULD A FOREIGNER QUALIFY FOR A PERMANENT RESIDENCE PERMIT?

There are various categories under which one may apply for a permanent residence permit:
• If one has been the holder of a work visa for a continuous period of 5 years or more and has received an offer of permanent employment.
• If a foreigner is the spouse of a South African citizen or permanent resident for 5 years or longer.
• Is the child of a South African citizen.
• If the applicant possesses extraordinary skills or qualifications.
• The applicant intends to establish or has established a business in South Africa with a minimum investment.
• Is a refugee as defined in terms of The Refugees Act of South Africa.

• The applicant intends to retire permanently in South Africa and receives a minimum of R37 000 per month from either a pension or annuity account; or has a net worth that realises R37 000 a month for the rest of the applicant’s life.
• The applicant has a proven minimum net worth of R10 million rand and has paid over an amount of R120 000 to the Director-General of Home Affairs.
• The applicant is the relative of a citizen or permanent resident within the first step of kinship

 

CAN A PERMANENT RESIDENCE PERMIT BE WITHDRAWN?

A Permit for Permanent Residence may be withdrawn under certain circumstances:
• If the holder is convicted of certain offences.
• The holder fails to comply with the terms and conditions of the permit.
• The holder has been absent from South Africa for more than 3 years.
• Does not take up residency in South Africa within 1 year of the permit being issued.

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