Hi My partner is a South African citizen however he is currently on a work contract in the UK and will be returning back to SA next year. We have been in a relationship for more than 3 years however for most part it has been long-distance as I am working in India. We want to settle in SA now for which I had been considering either life partner visa or critical skills work permit as I am a professional architect and working in the environment sector. Firstly, I'd like to know the situation with job possibilities in the country and which type of visa should I prefer? Also, how difficult is it to immigrate being an Indian female to South Africa? Any advice is appreciated. Thanks Shabari
Expat Health Insurance
Cigna Global Health Insurance.
Medical insurance specifically designed for expats. With Cigna, you won't have to rely on foreign public health care systems, which may not meet your needs. Cigna allows you to speak to a doctor on demand, for consultations or instant advice, wherever you are in the world. They also offer full cancer care across all levels of cover, and settle the cost of treatments directly with the provider.
Moving Internationally?
International Movers. Get Quotes. Compare Prices.
Sirelo has a network of more than 500 international removal companies that can move your furniture and possessions to your new home. By filling in a form, you’ll get up to 5 quotes from recommended movers. This service is free of charge and will help you select an international moving company that suits your needs and budget.
Get your free no-obligation quotes from select removal companies now!
The visa rules in South Africa changed quite drastically in April 2014. Unfortunatley, the major thing that has changed for the life partner visa is that you need to prove that you have been living together for at least two years. I am not specifically sure how you need to prove this (it could be a signed affadavit or a letter from a landlord/proof of joint homeownership, etc) but like in the case of lots of visa types for South Africa at the moment, it still hasn't been made clear what the requirements are exactly.
Archtecture is one of the fields that is eligable for a critical skills visa, so this maybe your best route.
While unemployement remains quite high overall, expats with skills, experience and expertise in sought-after fields can find work.
Please read the information on the Visas for South Africa page for more detailed information.
Good luck,
Shantalie