Validity of Dependent or Accompanying Spouse Visas

Validity of dependent or accompanying spouse visas

We often get questioned or asked why dependent spouse visas are issued for a shorter period than the main applicant's visa.

The answer is quite simple and clear - dependent visas, as per South African immigration law, are issued as long-term visitor's visas, and by law, all long-term visitor's visas are issued with a maximum validity of three (3) years at a time. We have to keep in mind, though, that the validity of the visa may also be issued in accordance with the passport validity in the event that the passport is valid for less than three (3) years.

The only exception to the rule is if the dependent is the spouse of a critical skills work visa holder. In this instance, and as per Immigration Regulation 18 (7), as quoted: "A spouse and dependent children of a holder of a critical skills work visa shall be issued with an appropriate visa valid for a period not exceeding the period of validity of the applicant's critical skills work visa."

To confirm - if the critical skills work visa has been issued for five (5) years, the dependent spouse and children's visas must be issued for a period of five (5) years too. Once again, this is subject to the validity of the passport.

Please feel free to reach out via our contact form on www.movingsouthimmigration.com in case of any questions. Alternatively, you may contact us at +2773 5357 534 or sue@movingsouthimmigration.com