Spouses / life partners of South African citizens or permanent residents qualify for permanent residence on the grounds of such spousal relationship only if and when their marriage or spousal relationship has subsisted for at least 5 years. Life partners and spouses need to submit proof of their relationship or marriage still being intact after 2 years of permanent residence status having been issued to the foreign partner.

Family members of South African citizens of permanent residents within the first step of kinship also have a right to permanent residence. It needs to be noted that minor children of permanent residents are required to confirm their status within 2 years after having reached the age of 18.

The family (spouses as per definition and dependent children) of applicants for permanent residence may be included in the application either directly or indirectly.