Discover Freedom and Opportunity with the Financially Independent Visa in South Africa
Summary of Content
- The Financially Independent Visa is a pathway for individuals seeking to establish permanent residency in South Africa.
- It offers an opportunity to live and work in the country without relying on traditional employment or financial sponsorship.
- This visa category caters to individuals who can demonstrate their ability to support themselves and contribute to the South African economy.
- Applicants need to meet specific criteria, including providing proof of financial stability and meeting the minimum net worth requirement.
- Successful applicants are granted permanent residency, allowing them to enjoy the benefits of living in South Africa indefinitely.
- The Financially Independent Visa provides a flexible option for individuals seeking independence and long-term settlement in the country.
Financially Independent Visa South Africa
Welcome to the Gateway of Opportunity: The Financially Independent Visa South Africa.
Are you ready to embark on a life-changing journey in the vibrant land of South Africa?
With this visa, you can unlock a world of possibilities, allowing you to establish your roots, pursue your dreams, and enjoy the freedom of living and thriving in this culturally rich nation.
Today, I am here to guide you through the intricacies of this remarkable visa option.
In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore the eligibility criteria financially independent permit, the visa process, and the remarkable benefits that await you.
Get ready to take the leap and embrace a future filled with unlimited potential. Let’s dive in!
What Is A Financially Independent Visa for South Africa
Have you ever dreamed of living in SA and enjoying all it has to offer?
Well, let me introduce you to a game-changer—the Financially Independent Permit. This option gets you permanent residency, allowing you to call SA your home sweet home.
So, what does it mean to be financially independent? It means you have the financial means to support yourself without relying on employment within SA.
To be eligible for the financially independent visa, you need to demonstrate a certain net worth, proving that you have the stability to thrive in South Africa.
With this visa, you can pursue your dreams, explore new opportunities, and create a fulfilling life in this beautiful nation.
Get ready to make South Africa your permanent sanctuary by applying for a financially independent permit!

Unlock your path to financial independence in South Africa
Apply for the Financially Independent Visa today and embrace a future of opportunities and freedom.
What Are the Qualifying Criteria For The Financially Independent Permit
So, to be eligible for the financially independent permit in South Africa, there are certain requirements you need to meet.
These criteria are in place to ensure that you have the necessary financial stability to support yourself while living in SA. Let’s take a look:
Firstly, you’ll need to demonstrate a minimum net worth of R12 million.
This means you should have substantial financial resources to sustain yourself without relying on employment income within South Africa.
In addition to that, there is a fee of 120,000 ZAR which needs to be paid upon approval of your financially independent visa application in South Africa.
This fee covers the processing and administrative costs associated with your financially independent permit.
By meeting these qualifying criteria, you can show that you have the financial independence and capability to contribute to the country’s economy.
It’s an opportunity to enjoy the benefits and freedoms that come with a financially independent visa in South Africa.
What Are The Requirements For The Independent Financial Person’s Permit

- A duly completed online form, known as DHA-947, needs to be submitted. Handwritten forms will not be accepted by the Department of Home Affairs.
- Payment of the fee of R1520 is needed.
- Submit an original valid passport for each applicant along with a passport photograph. The photograph should be recent, passport-type, and show the full face of the person. The names of the person should be written on the reverse side of the photograph. (Machine-type or instant photographs are not acceptable).
- Submit a marriage certificate or evidence of the relationship if the spouse is accompanying or joining the applicant in the Republic (Islamic marriages entered into within the Republic are not considered).
- Provide a divorce decree to prove the end of a previous marriage if one of the parties was previously married, or provide the death certificate of the deceased spouse.
- Submit proof of financial assistance between the individuals.
- Provide proof of parental responsibilities and rights or obtain written consent from the other parent or legal guardian, if applicable, for dependent children accompanying or joining the applicant in the Republic.
- Submit an unabridged birth certificate or an extract from the birth record for the applicant(s).
- In the case of a name, surname, or gender change, provide a deed poll.
- Submit an original police clearance certificate issued by the police or security authority of each country where the applicant resided for 12 months or longer after turning 18 years old (except for South Africa). This certificate should confirm the absence of criminal records or provide information about the applicant’s character. The certificate should not be older than six months at the time of submission. (Note: A certificate is not required from a foreign country for visa renewal or extension)
- Payment of the applicable biometric enrollment fee is required.
- A radiological report is not necessary for children under 12 years old or pregnant women. The report must not be older than six months at the time of submission.
- A medical report is required for all persons and must not be older than six months at the time of submission.
- If the person has travelled from or intends to transit through a yellow fever endemic area, a yellow fever vaccination certificate is required. However, this certificate is not needed if the person only transited directly through the area or if the submission is made within the Republic.
- Submit proof of having a minimum prescribed net worth (R12 Million) as determined by the Minister and published in the Gazette.
- Provide a written undertaking to make the payment of a specified amount (120,000 ZAR) to the Director-General upon approval.
Section 27(F) – Adding Your Spouse to Your Financial Independent Visa South Africa

- To apply, you need to complete the DHA-947 form online. The Department of Home Affairs does not accept handwritten forms.
- Submit an original and valid passport for each applicant, along with a passport photograph. The photograph should be recent, in the style of a passport, and display the full face of the person. Write the names of the persons on the back of the photograph. (Photographs produced by machines or instantly are not acceptable).
- Provide a marriage certificate or proof of the relationship if the spouse is accompanying or joining the applicant in the Republic. (Islamic marriages within the Republic are not considered).
- If applicable, provide a divorce decree to prove the end of a previous marriage or a death certificate of the deceased spouse.
- Submit evidence of mutual financial support.
- Include an unabridged birth certificate or an extract from the birth record for the applicant(s).
- If the applicant has changed their name, surname, or sex, provide a deed poll.
- Obtain an original police clearance certificate from the police or security authority of each country where the applicant resided for 12 months or longer after turning 18 years old. This certificate should confirm the absence of criminal records or provide information about the character of the applicant. The certificate should not be older than six months at the time of submission. (Note: A certificate is not required from a foreign country for visa renewal or extension).
- Payment of the applicable biometric enrollment fee is required.
- A radiological report is not necessary for children under 12 years old or pregnant women. The report must not be older than six months at the time of submission.
- All persons must provide a medical report. The report must not be older than six months at the time of submission.
- If the person has travelled from or intends to transit through a yellow fever endemic area, a yellow fever vaccination certificate is required. However, this certificate is not needed if the person only transited directly through the area or if the application is made within the Republic.
Section 27(F) – Adding Dependents to Your Financially Independent Visa

- To apply, you must complete the DHA-947 form online. The Department of Home Affairs does not accept handwritten forms.
- Submit an original and valid passport for each applicant, along with a passport photograph. The photograph should be recent, in the style of a passport, and display the full face of the person. Write the names of the applicants on the back of the photograph. (Photographs produced by machines or instantly are not acceptable).
- Include an unabridged birth certificate or an extract from the birth record for the applicant(s).
- If the applicant has changed their name, surname, or sex, provide a deed poll.
- A radiological report is not required for children under 12 years old or pregnant women. The report must not be older than six months at the time of submission.
- All applicants must provide a medical report. The certificate must not be older than six months at the time of submission.
- If the person has travelled from or intends to transit through a yellow fever endemic area, a yellow fever vaccination certificate is required. However, this certificate is not needed if the person only transited directly through the area or if the application is made within the Republic.
- The citizen or permanent resident must provide an undertaking, stating their ability and willingness to take financial, emotional, medical, and physical responsibility.
- If only one parent is immigrating, written consent from both parents is required.
- If applicable, provide a copy of the Identity document of the parent(s) or legal guardian who is a citizen or permanent resident.
- If applicable, provide a copy of the permanent residence permit of the parent(s) or legal guardian who is a permanent resident.

Unlock your path to financial independence in South Africa.
Apply for the Financially Independent Visa today and embrace a future of opportunities and freedom.
How To Apply For The Financially Independent Visa in South Africa
Applying for a financially independent permit in South Africa is a straightforward process. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to apply:
Complete the required application form: Fill out the designated form accurately and thoroughly. Ensure that all sections are completed as per the instructions provided by the Department of Home Affairs.
Gather supporting documents: Prepare the necessary supporting documents to accompany your application. These may include a valid passport, passport-sized photographs, birth certificates, marriage certificates (if applicable), police clearance certificates, medical reports, and any other documents specified by the immigration authorities.
Pay the application fee: Make the payment for the application fee as required by the Department of Home Affairs. The fee amount may vary, so it’s important to check the latest fee schedule and ensure that you submit the correct payment.
Review and submit your application: Double-check all the information provided in your application form and ensure that all the required documents are included. Once you are confident that everything is in order, submit your application to the designated immigration office or online portal as instructed.
Await a decision: After submission, your application will undergo a review process by the immigration authorities. The processing time may vary, so it’s important to be patient during this stage. You may track the progress of your application if such a service is available.
Collect your visa: Once your application is approved, you will be notified by the immigration authorities. Follow the instructions provided to collect your visa. It’s crucial to comply with any additional requirements or procedures communicated to you.
Comply with visa conditions: After receiving your Financially Independent Permit, ensure that you adhere to all the conditions and regulations associated with it. This includes maintaining the requirements and any other obligations specified by the immigration authorities.
What If I Do Not Qualify For The Financially Independent Visa
If you don’t meet the criteria for a financially independent visa in South Africa, there are alternative temporary residency in South Africa to explore. Here are some possibilities:
Retirement Visa: If you are at retirement age or have the means to support yourself without engaging in employment, you may consider applying for a retirement visa. This visa allows you to reside in South Africa and enjoy your retirement years in SA.
Relative Visa: If you have family members who are South African citizens or permanent residents, you may be eligible for a relative visa. This visa allows you to join your family in South Africa and stay with them for an extended period.
Spousal Visa or Life Partner Visa: If you are married to a South African citizen or permanent resident, you can apply for a spousal visa. Similarly, if you are in a legally recognized life partnership, you may be eligible for a life partner visa. These visas enable you to live with your spouse or life partner in South Africa.
Business Visa: If you have an entrepreneurial spirit and wish to establish your own business in South Africa, you can consider applying for a business visa. This visa category is designed for individuals who want to invest in or start a business venture in SA.
Work Visa: Explore other work opportunities in South Africa with the Critical Skills Work Visa, General Work Visa, Intra Company Transfer Work Visa, or Corporate Work Visa.
What Is The Duration Of The Financially Independent Visa
The financially independent permit grants you permanent residency, which means the duration of the visa is indefinite.
Once you are approved and issued the visa, you do not have to renew it periodically like other temporary residence visas.
However, it’s important to note that if you are absent from South Africa for a continuous period of three years, your permanent residency may lapse.
To maintain your permanent residency status, it is necessary to enter South Africa at least once every three years.
By doing so, you can ensure the continuity of your visa and enjoy the benefits of permanent residency without the need for regular renewals.
Where Can Financially Independent Permanent Residence Applicants Pay The Required R120 000.00?
Applicants can make the payment to the Director General of Home Affairs.
It is necessary to include a letter of undertaking stating the commitment to transfer the fee upon approval of the application.
This letter should be submitted along with the application, indicating the applicant’s intention to fulfil the payment obligation once their application is successfully approved.
By adhering to this process, applicants demonstrate their compliance with the payment requirements and ensure the smooth processing of their application for permanent residence in South Africa.
Why Live In South Africa
There are several compelling reasons to live in South Africa. Let’s explore some of them:
Natural Beauty: South Africa is renowned for its breathtaking landscapes, from stunning coastlines to lush national parks and majestic mountains. Whether you enjoy exploring wildlife reserves, relaxing on pristine beaches, or immersing yourself in scenic wonders, South Africa offers a diverse range of natural beauty.
Cultural Richness: SA boasts a vibrant and diverse cultural heritage, influenced by various ethnicities, traditions, and languages. South Africa’s multicultural society provides opportunities to experience a rich tapestry of music, art, cuisine, and festivals, making it a truly unique and enriching place to live.
Outdoor Lifestyle: With its pleasant climate and diverse geography, South Africa is an outdoor enthusiast’s paradise. Whether you love hiking, surfing, wildlife safaris, or simply enjoying the sunshine, there are endless opportunities for outdoor activities and adventures throughout the country.
Economic Opportunities: South Africa has a dynamic and emerging economy, offering a range of job opportunities and entrepreneurial prospects. SA is home to various industries, including mining, tourism, finance, technology, and agriculture, providing avenues for professional growth and economic prosperity.
Quality Education and Healthcare: South Africa has a well-established education system, with reputable universities and schools offering high-quality education. Additionally, SA has a robust healthcare infrastructure, with both public and private healthcare facilities providing comprehensive medical services.
Rich History and Heritage: South Africa’s history is marked by significant events and struggles, including the fight against apartheid and the journey towards democracy. Exploring the country’s historical sites, museums, and cultural landmarks offers a deeper understanding of its past and the resilience of its people.
Wildlife and Conservation: South Africa is renowned for its diverse wildlife and is home to numerous national parks and game reserves. Residents have the opportunity to witness iconic African animals in their natural habitats, contributing to the country’s commitment to wildlife conservation and ecotourism.
Warm Hospitality: South Africans are known for their warmth, friendliness, and welcoming nature. Living in South Africa provides the opportunity to connect with diverse communities, forge meaningful relationships, and experience renowned South African hospitality.
These are just a few reasons why living in South Africa can be a rewarding and fulfilling experience. From its natural wonders to its cultural diversity and economic prospects, the country offers a unique blend of opportunities and experiences for residents to embrace and enjoy.