While many of us are unsure even which forms to use, for those who do, here is a list of most immigration forms needed to apply for your visa or permit into South Africa. Bear in mind that while the Department of Home Affairs says you should only complete these inside their offices, this is not always true, and it is very important to be familiar with the forms you need before you arrive to make your application.
For refugee and asylum seeker applications, see the bottom section of the page. Also see the extra page on those permits and their types and validity.
Immigration forms for South Africa
Immigration Fees
SAQA Application Form for South Africa (no longer in use, please use the online SAQA form.)
Quota Skills List for South African immigration
BI-1739 – Immigration form – Application for Renewal of Existing Permit for South African immigration applications.
BI-1740 – Immigration form – Application for change of conditions on existing permit or change of status for South African immigration applications
BI-1712A – Life Partner Permit Form
BI-1738 – Immigration form – Application for Temporary Residence Permit for South African immigration applications.
BI-947 – Application for a Permanent Residence Permit
BI-811 – Medical Certificate Immigration Form for South African immigration permits and visas.
BI-806 – Immigration form – Radiological Report for South African visa and immigration applications
BI-84 – Immigration form – Application for a visa or transit visa for South Africa
BI-29 – Immigration form – Immigration Power of Attorney
BI-1590 – Eligibility Determination Form
Refugees or Asylum Seekers
See also: Refugees and Asylum Seekers in South Africa
BI-1590 – Immigration form – Eligibility Determination Form for Asylum Seekers for South African immigration applications.
Refugees Act for South Africa (1998)
UNHCR_Refugee_Handbook_1992
Refugee Regulations (2000)
New York Protocol Relating to the Status of Refugees (1967)
Convention against Torture and Other Cruel, Inhuman or Degrading Treatment or Punishment
Geneva Convention Relating to the Status of Refugees (1951)
BI-1590 – Eligibility Determination Form
Africa Refugee Convention 1969