Last Updated: 16 September 2026
Permanent residence (PR) lets you live and work in another country without a time limit. Some routes give PR on arrival; others grant it after years on a work or family visa.
This page covers visas for South Africans moving abroad. South Africa's own visas for foreign nationals coming to South Africa are handled by the Department of Home Affairs and are not covered here.
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 the country, your occupation, age and family size.
Get Permanent Residence QuotesPermanent Residence Routes
| Country | Route | How it works |
|---|---|---|
| Canada | Express Entry and Provincial Nominee Programs | Points-ranked profiles, invitations to apply |
| Australia | Skilled Independent (189) and Skilled Nominated (190) | Skills assessment, points test, invitation |
| New Zealand | Skilled Migrant Category, Green List straight to residence | Skilled job and points or listed occupation |
| United Kingdom | Indefinite leave to remain | After qualifying years on eligible visas |
| United States | Green card | Employer or family sponsorship, other limited routes |
Permanent Residence Costs
| Item | Amount | Type |
|---|---|---|
| Canada Express Entry or PNP (incl. right of PR fee) | CAD 1,590 (approx. R18,760) per adult | Official government fee |
| Australia Skilled Independent (189) | AUD 6,135 (approx. R65,640) | Official government fee |
| Australia Skilled Nominated (190) | AUD 6,140 (approx. R65,700) | Official government fee |
| UK indefinite leave to remain | £3,226 (approx. R70,330) | Official government fee |
| Skills assessment or credential evaluation | R3,000 - R12,000 | Third-party |
| English test | R4,000 - R5,500 | Third-party |
| Medicals | R2,500 - R6,000 per person | Third-party (panel doctor) |
| PR application preparation | R10,000 - R40,000 | 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.
Compare PR quotes and ask exactly what is included for each family member.
Compare PR QuotesWhat Scores Points
- Age.
- English or French language results.
- Qualifications and skills assessment.
- Skilled work experience.
- Job offers or state and provincial nomination.
- Partner skills.
Documents
- Police clearances for every country lived in for 6 months or more, often from age 18.
- Unabridged birth and marriage certificates.
- Degree certificates and transcripts.
- Employment reference letters with duties and hours.
- Proof of settlement funds where required.
- Medical examinations.
Moving to South Africa Instead?
Foreign nationals planning to live in South Africa should start with the official South African temporary residence visa information. US citizens can also check the South African Embassy in Washington's visa types and requirements.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which country is easiest for PR from South Africa?
It depends on age, occupation, language results and qualifications. Each country ranks applicants differently.
How much does Canadian PR cost?
About CAD 1,590 (approx. R18,760) per adult in government fees for Express Entry, plus tests, assessments and medicals.
Do I need a job offer for PR?
Not for all routes. Canada Express Entry and Australia 189 can be done without one, although offers can add points.
Can PR be lost?
Most countries set residency obligations. Spending long periods outside can put PR at risk.
Use Visa Application to get more than one quote before you pay anyone to help with a permanent residence application.
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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