Last Updated: 16 September 2026
Family visas let you join a partner, parent or child who is a citizen or resident of another country. Spousal and partner visas are the most common, and they usually take the longest to prepare.
For short family visits, a visitor visa is usually the right route instead, such as the UK visitor visa or Canada visitor or super visa.
Immigration advice is regulated in several destination countries. The UK regulates immigration advisers, Canada requires licensed immigration consultants or lawyers for paid representation, and Australia requires registered migration agents. Ask any provider whether they are authorised for the destination country before paying for advice.
Tell us who you are joining, where and your relationship.
Get Family Visa QuotesFamily Visa Types
| Visa | For | Examples |
|---|---|---|
| Spouse or partner visa | Married, civil or long-term partners | UK Family visa, Canada spousal sponsorship, Australia partner visa |
| Dependant visa | Partners and children of workers or students | UK Skilled Worker dependants |
| Child visa | Children joining a parent | Varies by country |
| Parent visa | Parents of citizens or residents | Australia parent visas, Canada super visa (visitor) |
| Fiancé visa | Marrying in the destination country | Australia Prospective Marriage visa, US K-1 |
Family and Spousal Visa Costs
| Item | Amount | Type |
|---|---|---|
| UK Family (partner) visa from outside the UK | £2,064 (approx. R45,000) | Official government fee |
| UK Immigration Health Surcharge | £1,035 (approx. R22,560) per year | Official government fee |
| Canada spousal sponsorship (incl. right of PR fee) | CAD 1,260 (approx. R14,870) | Official government fee |
| Australia Partner visa | AUD 11,710 (approx. R125,300) | Official government fee |
| Unabridged marriage and birth certificates | Home Affairs fees - confirm | Official |
| Apostilles and sworn translations | R1,500 - R5,000 | Third-party and optional |
| Spousal visa file preparation | R5,000 - R20,000 | Optional assistance fee |
Fees may change and should be confirmed with the relevant government, embassy, consulate or authorised visa application provider before applying. Rand amounts are approximate conversions and assistance fees are indicative market ranges, not quotations.
Get quotes for relationship evidence, documents and the application itself.
Compare Family Visa QuotesEvidence Usually Needed
- Unabridged marriage certificate or proof of a long-term relationship.
- Evidence of an ongoing relationship: communication, visits, shared finances.
- Sponsor's status, income and accommodation, which must meet the destination's financial requirements.
- Police clearance and medicals where required.
- Apostilled and translated documents where the destination requires them.
Timing
Partner visas often take many months to decide, and some take more than a year. Start gathering evidence early. Processing times are estimates and can change.
If your partner is a US citizen joining you in South Africa rather than the other way round, see the South African Embassy's guide to visa types.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I apply for a spouse visa if we are not married?
Many countries accept unmarried partners who meet cohabitation or relationship-length rules.
Does my partner need a minimum income?
Several countries set financial requirements for the sponsor, including the UK. Check the current threshold.
Do I need an unabridged marriage certificate?
Usually yes. Abridged certificates are rarely accepted abroad.
Can I visit my partner on a tourist visa while applying?
Sometimes, but you must meet visitor rules and intend to leave.
Visa Application connects South African travellers with independent providers who prepare spousal visa applications.
Related Pages
Visa approval is solely at the discretion of the relevant immigration authority. Visa Application is not a government department, embassy, consulate or visa application centre, and no provider can guarantee approval, appointment availability or processing time.
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