Best Dependent Visa Lawyers in South Africa

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Immigration Consultant SA

Immigration Consultant SA

1 hour Free Consultation
Cape Town, South Africa

Founded in 2019
2 people in their team
English
Immigration Consultant SA is a trusted immigration service provider, specializing in South African visa applications, residency solutions, and corporate immigration assistance. We help individuals, couples, and businesses navigate the complex immigration process with expert advice and step-by-step...
Abrahams & Gross
Cape Town, South Africa

Founded in 1935
50 people in their team
Afrikaans
English
WELCOME TO ABRAHAMS & GROSSYOUR LEGAL PROFESSIONALSLeading South African law firm located on Cape Town’s Foreshore. Founded 1935.We have been practising law under the iconic Table Mountain for over 80 years.We offer considerable expertise and experience in the following fields: Commercial...
Shepstone & Wylie Attorneys
Richards Bay, South Africa

English
Established in 1892, Shepstone & Wylie Attorneys is a distinguished South African law firm renowned for its integrity and excellence. With a team of over 60 lawyers, the firm operates from offices in Durban, Johannesburg, Cape Town, Pietermaritzburg, and Richards Bay, offering comprehensive legal...
Pretoria, South Africa

English
Van den Berg Attorneys, established in 2021, is a dynamic law firm based in Pretoria, South Africa, specializing in administrative law and litigation against government institutions. The firm offers a comprehensive range of legal services, including assistance with applications to the Department of...
Johannesburg, South Africa

Founded in 2019
11 people in their team
English
Gittins Attorneys is a premier boutique law firm based in Johannesburg, South Africa, delivering tailored legal services across a broad spectrum of practice areas. Founded by Ashley Gittins, the firm concentrates on litigation and alternative dispute resolution, drawing on experience from some of...
Dandala Attorneys
Johannesburg, South Africa

English
Dandala Attorneys, located at 18 Eales Street in King William's Town, Eastern Cape, South Africa, is a reputable law firm known for its comprehensive legal services. The firm is staffed by experienced attorneys, including Ivy Ntuntu Dandala, Nothemba Violet Dandala-Pungula, and Siphiwo Dandala, all...
SD Law
Johannesburg, South Africa

Founded in 2011
10 people in their team
Afrikaans
English
Attorney Simon Dippenaar has a BBusSc LLB degree and Professional Diploma in Legal Practice from the University of Cape Town, and is an admitted attorney of the High Court of South Africa. He is the founder and director of private legal practice, Simon Dippenaar & Associates, with offices in...

Founded in 2021
English
Clarrence Mangena Inc (CMI) Attorneys & Notaries is a South African commercial and corporate law firm founded in 2021 and led by director Clarrence Mangena. Based in Polokwane with a second office in Sandton, the firm directs its practice to commercial and corporate matters, including contract...
BOUVERIE ATTORNEYS INCORPORATED
eManzimtoti, South Africa

English
Bouverie Attorneys Incorporated is a distinguished law firm based in South Africa, recognized for its comprehensive range of legal services. The firm excels in the realms of conveyancing, estate liquidation, and real estate law, offering clients unparalleled expertise in navigating complex legal...
Goodway & Buck Attorneys
Durban, South Africa

English
Goodway & Buck Attorneys, based in Durban, South Africa, offers a comprehensive range of legal services, including Road Accident Fund (RAF) claims, personal injury cases, commercial law, and family law matters. The firm is particularly noted for its expertise in assisting refugees and South African...
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About Dependent Visa Law in South Africa

In South Africa, a Dependent Visa, also known as a Relative Visa or Accompanying Spouse/Children Visa, allows the dependents (spouse or minor children) of a primary visa holder to reside in South Africa temporarily. This visa is typically linked to the visa conditions of the primary visa holder-often a work or study visa. The goal is to keep families unified by allowing dependents to join their family members who are residing in the country for work or study purposes.

Why You May Need a Lawyer

While applying for a Dependent Visa in South Africa might seem straightforward, various situations might require legal assistance. These include:

  • Complex family situations, such as joint custody of minors or dependents with specific needs.
  • Uncertainty or confusion about documentation requirements and application processes.
  • Navigating issues related to visa denial, refusal, or delays and appealing against these decisions.
  • Legal assistance in understanding and complying with immigration laws and fulfilling the eligibility criteria.
  • Updating dependent status if the primary visa holder's status changes, such as renewing a work visa or switching to permanent residency.

Local Laws Overview

The immigration laws regarding Dependent Visas in South Africa are governed by the Immigration Act of 2002, as amended, and its accompanying regulations. Key aspects include:

  • Requirement for dependents to hold dependent visas corresponding to the primary visa holder's status.
  • Need for dependents to prove their relationship with the primary visa holder (e.g., marriage certificate, birth certificate).
  • Restrictions on the activities of dependents, such as work limitations, depending on the type of dependent visa granted.
  • Specific documentation required, including medical and radiological reports, as part of the visa application process.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is a Dependent Visa in South Africa?

A Dependent Visa allows the spouse or minor children of a primary visa holder to live in South Africa temporarily, aligning with the duration and conditions of the primary visa holder's stay.

Who qualifies as a dependent?

Generally, dependents are considered to be the spouse or minor children of the primary visa holder.

Can dependents work or study in South Africa on this visa?

The primary purpose of a Dependent Visa is for staying purposes only. To work or study, dependents may need to obtain separate work or study visas.

How long does the Dependent Visa process take?

Processing times can vary widely depending on the complexity of the application and any additional requests made by the Department of Home Affairs.

What documents are needed for a Dependent Visa application?

Documents typically include proof of relationship, valid passports, medical and radiological reports, and proof of financial support.

Do Dependent Visas need to be renewed?

Yes, they need to be renewed in line with the duration and status of the primary visa holder's visa.

What happens if the primary visa holder's visa status changes?

If the primary visa holder’s status changes, dependents must update their visa statuses accordingly, ensuring compliance with immigration laws.

Can the Dependent Visa lead to permanent residency?

No, the Dependent Visa itself does not lead to permanent residency, but there might be pathways to apply for residency based on other criteria.

What if the application for a Dependent Visa is denied?

If denied, applicants can seek detailed reasons for the denial and potentially appeal the decision with the assistance of an immigration lawyer.

Can dependents switch from a Dependent Visa to another type of visa while in South Africa?

It may be possible to change visa types, but it would depend on the conditions and applicable laws, often requiring submission of a new application.

Additional Resources

Several resources can provide guidance or further support related to Dependent Visas in South Africa:

  • The Department of Home Affairs - For official information and application processes.
  • Legal aid services - For assistance with legal queries and understanding rights.
  • Immigration consultants - Professionals specializing in visa applications.
  • Expats forums and communities - For personal experiences and tips.

Next Steps

If you need legal assistance with a Dependent Visa in South Africa, consider the following actions:

  • Contact a qualified immigration lawyer who is well-versed in South African visa laws to assess your case and provide guidance.
  • Prepare and organize all necessary documentation relevant to your situation and status.
  • Reach out to the Department of Home Affairs for up-to-date information or any specific queries related to the visa application process.
  • Consider consulting with a registered immigration consultant for personalized advice or assistance in processing your application.

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Each profile includes a description of the firm's areas of practice, client reviews, team members and partners, year of establishment, spoken languages, office locations, contact information, social media presence, and any published articles or resources. Most firms on our platform speak English and are experienced in both local and international legal matters.

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Disclaimer:

The information provided on this page is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. While we strive to ensure the accuracy and relevance of the content, legal information may change over time, and interpretations of the law can vary. You should always consult with a qualified legal professional for advice specific to your situation.

We disclaim all liability for actions taken or not taken based on the content of this page. If you believe any information is incorrect or outdated, please contact us, and we will review and update it where appropriate.