Corporate Permit

South African companies with a proven ongoing need for foreign employees can obtain a so-called corporate permit.

This permit is issued not to the individual worker, but to the employer and allows to employs a specific number of foreigners in specific positions on an ongoing basis. The corporate applicant needs to motivate and prove the need for foreign staff. When issued with a corporate permit, the company can recruit foreigners who will be issued with corporate worker permits on submission of their personal documentation in a much simplified procedure. The corporate permit allows companies more flexible and predictable staff planning. The corporate permit is issued for a temporary period and may be extended when the ongoing need for foreign employees is proven.

As from 15 October 2011, ALL Corporate Permit applications must state a physical address in addition to the name of the company and workplace as it will be compulsory that an inspection will be conducted at the said premises by the Department of Labour. This inspection is to ensure that the corporate applicant is compliant with all Labour legislation.

The future scope of qualifying applicants is uncertain, due to the new immigration law being passed and most probably coming into force early in 2012.