Countries / South Africa

South Africa

Residency through investment in Africa’s hub.

Residency by Investment Financially Independent Visa or Business Visa

Program Overview

Why South Africa?

South Africa’s Residency by Investment programme in 2026 offers permanent residency through the Financially Independent Visa or Business Visa. The Financially Independent Visa requires proof of net worth of at least ZAR 12 million and a government fee of ZAR 120,000. The Business Visa route requires investment in a qualifying South African business and job creation. Family members can be included, and permanent residency is available after approval.

Residency by Investment (Financially Independent Visa / Business Visa)
Permanent Residency Option
Family Inclusion (Spouse, Children)
Gateway to Africa’s Largest Economy
Access to Healthcare & Education

Eligibility Requirements

  • Valid passport and clean criminal record.
  • Evidence of lawful funds and source of wealth.
  • Net worth of ≥ ZAR 12 million (Financially Independent Visa).
  • Government fee of ZAR 120,000.
  • Business investment and job creation (Business Visa).

Investment Options

Choose the route that matches your portfolio and residency goals.

Financially Independent Visa

Net worth ≥ ZAR 12,000,000

Government fee of ZAR 120,000; grants permanent residency.

Business Visa

Varies

Invest in a qualifying South African business and create jobs.

Program Benefits

Designed for families, investors, and entrepreneurs seeking global access.

Permanent residency option for investor and family.

Family inclusion for spouse and children.

Pathway to South African citizenship after 10 years.

Residency in Africa’s most industrialised economy.

Access to healthcare, education, and property ownership.

Application Process

We manage each step with legal partners and local support.

01

Eligibility & Planning

Confirm visa route and family inclusion strategy.

02

Investment Execution

Provide proof of net worth or invest in business.

03

Application Filing

Submit application to South African authorities with supporting documents.

04

Approval & Residency Card

Receive permanent residency or long-term visa upon approval.

05

Renewals & Citizenship

Maintain residency and apply for citizenship after 10 years.

Associated Costs

Placeholder costs shown below. These will be updated with official fees.

Minimum qualifying investment Net worth ≥ ZAR 12,000,000 or business investment
Government fee ZAR 120,000 (Financially Independent Visa)
Legal / due diligence Varies
Translation & notarization Varies

Frequently Asked Questions

Example answers until program-specific data is finalized.

Is real estate eligible?

Indirectly, as part of net worth proof; not a standalone route.

Can family be included?

Yes, spouse and children are eligible.

When can I apply for citizenship?

After 10 years of continuous residency.

What changed in 2026?

Higher compliance checks and stricter proof of funds requirements.

Ready to start your application?

Get a personalized checklist for South Africa.

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