How It Works
Simpler than you think — here’s exactly what happens.
What to Prepare Before You Apply
You don’t need to bring us a draft or know any legal terminology. Just have the following information ready:
- Both partners’ full names and ID/passport numbers
- Your current living arrangement (renting, own property, who owns what)
- A general idea of what you’d like the agreement to cover — property, expenses, separation terms
- Whether the agreement is needed for a life partner visa application
- Divorce decrees, if either partner was previously married
If you’re not sure about any of this, don’t worry — we’ll guide you through it.
The Process — Step by Step
Apply Online ± 10 minutes
Complete our secure online application form. Tell us about your relationship, your assets, and what you’d like the agreement to cover.
We’ll respond within one business day with a confirmation and any follow-up questions.
We Draft Your Agreement 2–3 business days
Our attorney prepares a tailored cohabitation agreement based on your circumstances. This is not a template — each agreement is drafted specifically for you.
We send you the draft for review. You can request changes or ask questions before the signing appointment.
Both Partners Sign Before the Notary
Both partners must appear in person at our Pretoria office. The Notary Public will:
- Verify both partners’ identities (SA ID or passport)
- Explain the agreement in full to both parties
- Ensure both partners understand and consent to the terms
- Witness both signatures
The signing appointment typically takes 30–45 minutes.
Notarial Certification
After signing, the agreement is:
- Bound into the notarial protocol — the official register of notarial acts
- Assigned a unique Protocol Number
- A duplicate original is filed in our records
You receive the original notarial agreement — a legally binding public document with full evidentiary force.
Common Questions About the Process
Can we sign at a different location?
The standard process requires both partners to attend our Pretoria office. If you are based outside Pretoria and cannot travel, please contact us to discuss alternatives.
What if my partner is overseas?
If one partner is currently outside South Africa, please contact us. We may be able to arrange the process to accommodate your situation, depending on the circumstances.
Can we make changes after signing?
Yes. If your circumstances change — new property, children, change in income — you can have an amended agreement or addendum prepared and notarised. We recommend reviewing your agreement whenever a significant life event occurs.
How do we cancel the agreement?
A cohabitation agreement can be cancelled by mutual consent through a deed of cancellation signed before a Notary Public.
How long is the agreement valid?
The agreement remains in force until it is cancelled, amended, or the partners marry (in which case a prenuptial contract would typically replace it).
Ready to Get Started?
The whole process — from application to signed agreement — typically takes less than a week.
Apply Online — It Takes 10 Minutes
Or call us: 087 001 0733 | 073 686 9078