Work Visas in South Africa

There are several types of work visas for people who want to live and work in South Africa.
The different types are designed to simplify applications by a process of filtration.
For instance, people on short-stay visas who need to work to cover living expenses can apply for a Short-Term Work Visa.

Requirements for each visa vary greatly.
It is up to you to ensure that you meet the requirements for the type of visa you need.

Short-term work visas are for short stays or project-related work in South Africa. These visas are valid for a maximum period of 180 days (six months). It’s also suited to self-employed people who have contract work in South Africa.

This visa only applies if you work in highly skilled professions in demand in South Africa. The aim is to address skills shortages in the country. It’s valid for five years and is linked to certain requirements, including a South African Qualifications Authority (SAQA) certification and registration to a SAQA-recognised professional body in South Africa.

This visa enables staff members to transfer from one branch to another in South Africa. It includes subsidiary or affiliated businesses. ICT visas are valid for four years. Staff members must work in a specific capacity for their stay. South African work visa applications must be submitted in the country of residence.

A general work visa only applies if your skills don’t qualify you for other work visas in South Africa. It’s valid for five years and is notoriously difficult to obtain. This is because employers must prove they can’t fill the position with a South African citizen or permanent resident.

All Required Application Forms can be found at our Immigration Resources

South African work visa requirements include:

• A certificate from the Department of Labour
• Proof of qualifications by SAQA
• Contract of employment signed by the applicant and the employer
• Proof of the employer’s registration in the Registrar of Companies
• Required documentation for accompanying partners or children, if applicable.

Documents and forms needed to apply for a South African work visa include:

• Letters from the entity abroad and South Africa confirming the transfer to South Africa.
• Return flight itinerary confirming travel to South Africa and date of return.
• Proof of accommodation in South Africa.
• Medical and radiological reports are required for extension applications.

The four types of South African work visas have varying costs, with fees covering various aspects of the application and approval process.

Contact IBN, and one of our immigration consultants will get back to you to discuss all related costs. You’ll get a cost estimate based on the type of work visa and market trends.

1. Your immigration specialist will help you apply for your specific type of work visa in South Africa. For instance, we’ll give you detailed information on the forms you need to apply for a work visa.
2. Once you’ve completed all the forms and added supporting documentation, your immigration consultant will pre-complete the necessary forms and put the application together.
3. You must submit your application pack at a South African embassy or your closest VFS (Visa Facilitation Service) center.

Note: You must apply for a work visa in your home country or country of permanent residence.

4. All that’s left for you to do is wait for your South African work visa to be approved. Your immigration specialist will give you an estimated turnaround time based on current circumstances.

Find an Application/Submission Guide on Work Visas in South Africa, HERE.