The Retirement Visa allows foreign nationals who are retired and financially independent to live in South Africa. Applicants must demonstrate a guaranteed income from pensions, retirement funds, or investments sufficient to support themselves.
South Africa's exceptional quality of life, favourable cost of living, excellent healthcare in private facilities, and diverse landscapes make it an attractive retirement destination for international retirees.
New World Immigration assists retirees with their visa applications, ensuring financial documentation meets DHA requirements and the application is presented professionally.
Who is this permit for?
The Retirement Visa is for financially independent retired foreign nationals who wish to live in South Africa.
You are retired or of retirement age
You have a guaranteed monthly income from pensions, retirement funds, or investments
Your income meets the minimum threshold set by the Department of Home Affairs (currently ZAR 37,000 per month or equivalent)
You do not intend to work or engage in employment in South Africa
You have no criminal record and meet health requirements
You have comprehensive medical aid or health insurance
Common reasons for rejection
The guaranteed monthly income falls below the minimum threshold set by the relevant authority
The retirement income relies on speculative or variable returns rather than a guaranteed pension or annuity
Pension or retirement fund statements are not certified or fail to confirm a guaranteed income
Foreign income has been converted to rand without supporting evidence of the prevailing exchange rate
No proof of comprehensive medical cover valid in South Africa for the intended period of stay
Bank statements do not corroborate the income claimed in the supporting financial documentation
Application process
1. Financial Assessment
We assess your retirement income and financial situation to confirm you meet the minimum income requirements.
2. Income Documentation
We compile comprehensive financial documentation including pension statements, investment portfolios, and bank statements.
3. Medical Aid Arrangements
We advise on obtaining appropriate medical aid or health insurance in South Africa.
4. Application Preparation
We prepare the complete application with all financial, medical, and personal documents.
5. Submission to DHA
The application is submitted to the Department of Home Affairs.
6. Processing & Outcome
DHA processes the application. Once approved, the Retirement Visa is issued.
Key considerations
The minimum income threshold is set by DHA and is subject to periodic review.
Income must be guaranteed and verifiable, speculative investment returns may not qualify.
The visa does not permit any form of employment or business activity.
Medical aid or comprehensive health insurance is strongly recommended.
The visa is typically issued for up to 4 years and is renewable.
Spouses can apply for accompanying visas.
The retirement visa can potentially lead to permanent residency after the qualifying period.
Costs
Costs include government fees, medical aid, and professional service fees.
DHA Application Fee: ZAR 1,520
Medical Aid/Insurance: ZAR 3,000 - 10,000 per month
Police Clearance Certificates: ZAR 150 - 500 per country
Medical Report: ZAR 800 - 1,500
Professional Service Fees: Contact for quote
Government fees are subject to change. Medical aid costs depend on the level of coverage selected.
Processing timeframes
Retirement visa processing depends on the completeness of financial documentation.
Document Preparation: 2 - 4 weeks
DHA Processing: 8 - 16 weeks
Total: 3 - 6 months
Job offer requirements
The Retirement Visa does not permit any form of employment. Holders must rely on their pension, retirement income, or investments.
If you wish to engage in any professional activities, a different visa type would be required.
New World Immigration can advise on the appropriate visa if your plans include any income-generating activities.
How to apply — step by step
1. Confirm Your Income Meets the Threshold
Verify that your guaranteed monthly income from pensions, retirement funds, or investment returns is at least ZAR 37,000 per month.
2. Obtain Certified Proof of Income
Gather certified statements from your pension provider, fund manager, or financial institution clearly confirming the guaranteed monthly income amount.
3. Arrange Medical Insurance
Confirm you have comprehensive medical insurance valid in South Africa for the intended period of your stay.
4. Compile Your Full Document Pack
Prepare all required documents including income proof, bank statements, medical insurance, police clearances, and medical report.
5. Submit to DHA or Mission Abroad
Lodge the application with the Department of Home Affairs (if in SA) or the nearest South African embassy or consulate abroad.
6. Attend Biometrics and Await Decision
Attend any required biometrics appointment. Once approved, collect your Retirement Visa, typically valid for 4 years and renewable.
Quick tips
The ZAR 37,000 per month income must be guaranteed and ongoing, variable or discretionary income does not reliably satisfy this requirement.
Income must come from a pension, retirement fund, or investment returns, employment income is not eligible for this visa category.
Foreign income converted to ZAR must reflect the prevailing exchange rate at the time of application; include evidence of the conversion.
The retirement visa does not permit the holder to engage in any employment in South Africa.
After 5 years of continuous residence on a retirement visa, you may qualify to apply for permanent residency.
Comprehensive medical insurance is essential, South Africa's private healthcare costs can be significant for foreign nationals.
Documents needed
Valid passport (minimum 30 days validity beyond intended visa period)
Certified proof of guaranteed monthly income of at least ZAR 37,000 (pension statements, annuity certificates, or investment income letters)
Bank statements for the last 3–6 months
Actuary's certificate or fund statement confirming pension or retirement fund value (if applicable)
Comprehensive medical insurance valid in South Africa
Police clearance certificate(s) from every country lived in for 12+ months since age 18
Two recent passport-sized photographs
Completed application form (BI-1738)
Proof of payment of the government application fee
Frequently asked questions
What is the minimum income requirement?
The current minimum is approximately ZAR 37,000 per month from guaranteed sources such as pensions or retirement funds. This threshold is set by DHA and is subject to change.
Can I work on a Retirement Visa?
No. The Retirement Visa does not permit any form of employment or business activity.
Can my spouse join me?
Yes. Your spouse can apply for an accompanying visa. The financial requirements must cover both applicants.
Is private medical aid required?
While not always legally mandatory, comprehensive private medical aid is strongly recommended and may be required by DHA.
Can the Retirement Visa lead to permanent residency?
Yes. After holding a Retirement Visa for the qualifying period, you may be eligible to apply for permanent residency.
Get expert help
If you are looking to retire in South Africa and enjoy its exceptional lifestyle, the Retirement Visa provides your pathway.
Contact New World Immigration for a professional assessment of your eligibility and financial readiness.