South Africa Waives Medical Report Requirement for Temporary and Permanent Residence Visas
- Xavi
- Jul 11
- 2 min read
PRETORIA — July 11, 2026 — South Africa has scrapped the medical report requirement for individuals submitting temporary residence visa applications and permanent residence permit applications, effective immediately.
The Department of Home Affairs confirmed the change, which eliminates the need for applicants to provide a medical report confirming they have undergone a medical examination and are free from serious infectious diseases or medical conditions that might present a risk.
Quick Facts
Metric | Details |
Effective Date | Immediate (July 10, 2026) |
Affected Applications | Temporary residence visas, permanent residence permits (both in SA and abroad) |
Previous Requirement | Medical report confirming no serious infectious diseases |
Purpose | Streamline immigration process, reduce administrative barriers |
What Changed
Under the previous rules, applicants for temporary residence visas and permanent residence permits were required to submit a medical report as part of their supporting documentation. The report verified that the applicant had completed a medical examination and did not have any serious infectious diseases or medical conditions that might present a risk.
Effective immediately, this requirement has been removed for:
People applying for temporary residence visas in South Africa
Individuals submitting permanent residence permit applications in South Africa
Individuals submitting permanent residence permit applications abroad
Why the Change Was Made
The initiative is expected to further streamline South Africa's immigration process by reducing unnecessary administrative barriers. The move builds on previous reforms, including the elimination of the radiology report for certain visa and permit types in 2023.
"This initiative is expected to further streamline South Africa's immigration process by reducing unnecessary administrative barriers, building on previous reforms such as the elimination of the radiology report for certain visa and permit types in 2023."— South African Department of Home Affairs
Impact on Applicants
Applicant Type | Previous Requirement | New Requirement |
Temporary Residence Visa (in SA) | Medical report required | No longer required |
Permanent Residence Permit (in SA) | Medical report required | No longer required |
Permanent Residence Permit (abroad) | Medical report required | No longer required |
Practical Advice for Applicants
While the medical report is no longer required, applicants should still:
Check the latest requirements — Ensure you have all other required documents
Monitor official updates — The Department of Home Affairs may issue further guidance
Prepare supporting documentation — Other standard documents remain necessary
Consult an immigration professional — For complex cases or specific questions
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For the latest South Africa visa updates, immigration policy changes, and 2026 travel news, visit: visasupdate.com/blog
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