Have you been married to, or in a permanent life partnership with a South African citizen or permanent residence for 5 years? Congratulations, you may then be eligible for Permanent Residence!

Section 26(b) of The Immigration Act allows you to apply for permanent residence only once you have been married or in a permanent life partnership with a South African citizen or Permanent Resident for 5 years.

It's extremely important to note the following:

- Do NOT apply early - on the date that you submit your application, you must have completed 5 years of marriage or life partnership.

- Make sure that you have a valid temporary residence visa at the time of applying and be sure to keep that visa valid at all times, including during the adjudication of your Permanent Residence Application.

- Make sure that you have as much evidence of your bona fide relationship as possible. This could include proof of shared medical aid, life insurance policies, shared property etc.

- This section applies equally to same sex couples

If in doubt, seek professional assistance. You would not want to wait for over a year, only to be disappointed by a rejection.