Sections 25, 26, and 27 of the Immigration Act provide grounds upon which an applicant can apply for Permanent Residence status in South Africa. Due to the far-reaching benefits accompanying the declaration of permanent residence, the Department usually takes much longer, which is unfortunate, to either approve or reject an application.
Let us look at the grounds upon which an applicant will be considered for Permanent Residence status in South Africa:
- Foreigners who have been residing in South Africa on the basis of their work permits for a minimum period of five years;
- Is a child of a citizen;
- Is a spouse of a citizen or permanent resident and the Dept is satisfied that a bona fide spousal relationship exists for at least 5 years;
- Is a child under the age of 21 of a citizen or permanent resident, provided that such permit shall lapse if such foreigner does not submit an application for its confirmation within two years of his or her having turned 18 years of age;
- If you are in possession of a permanent work offer in South Africa, or;
- Have exceptional skills and qualifications;
- Intend to establish a business in South Africa;
- Qualify as Refugees in terms of Section 27(c) of the Refugees Act;
- Qualify as retired persons – minimum monthly income or net worth is a huge factor;
- Are financially independent;
- Are relatives (biologically or judicially adopted) of a South African citizen or permanent residence permit holder;
Each of the above-named categories is fraught with requirements that must be attained before an application is lodged; an applicant will need a trusted expert to hold their hand through the process. At Immigration Law Associates we take this task seriously.
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