Once a foreigner and a South African citizen or permanent resident holder marry each other, a Temporary Residence Spousal permit can be obtained in order for the foreigner to reside in South African with his / her spouse.

If the marriage is less than 5 years old, Temporary residence can only be submitted at that time.  But, if a marriage is 5 years and older, Permanent residency can then be applied for by the foreigner thereafter.

For further information on Spousal permits, please see here

Information supplied by www.intergate-immigration.com