The South African Minister of Home Affairs has introduced a welcome change for many immigration applicants. Effective 8 July 2026, Ministerial Immigration Directive No. 10 of 2026 waives the requirement to submit a medical report for certain Temporary Residence Visa and Permanent Residence Permit applications.
This update is expected to simplify the application process, reduce costs, and make it easier for eligible applicants to prepare their submissions.
Who Does the Waiver Apply To?
The waiver applies differently depending on the type of application:
Temporary Residence Visa Applications
Applicants submitting a Temporary Residence Visa application from within South Africa are no longer required to provide a medical report.
Please note that this waiver does not apply to Temporary Residence Visa applications submitted from outside South Africa. Overseas applicants must still submit a medical report as part of their application.
Permanent Residence Permit Applications
The waiver applies to all Permanent Residence Permit applications, regardless of whether they are submitted within South Africa or from abroad.
This means permanent residence applicants worldwide can now omit the medical report from their application documents.
What Does This Mean for Applicants?
The removal of the medical report requirement offers several benefits, including:
- Fewer supporting documents to prepare.
- Reduced costs associated with medical examinations.
- A simpler and more efficient application process.
- Less time spent gathering documentation before submission.
It’s important to note that this waiver only applies to the medical report. All other supporting documents and eligibility requirements remain unchanged unless otherwise stated by the Department of Home Affairs.
Effective Date
The waiver came into effect on 8 July 2026, the date on which the Ministerial Directive was signed.
Need Assistance with Your South African Visa or Permanent Residence Application?
Whether you’re applying for a temporary residence visa, renewing your status, or pursuing permanent residence, our immigration specialists are here to help ensure your application meets the latest requirements.
Contact Black Pen Immigration for expert guidance and support throughout your South African immigration journey.
