Work Permit South Africa

South Africa boasts a diverse economy and a unique labour market. To achieve its growth objectives, the government actively seeks skilled foreign nationals to fill critical skill gaps and enhance the domestic workforce. This creates an attractive opportunity for many foreign professionals with specialized expertise across various fields.

Foreign individuals intending to work in South Africa must obtain a work permit, which can be valid for periods ranging from three months to five years. It’s important to note that you cannot work in South Africa on a visa that is not explicitly designated for employment.

The different types of work visas include:

Short-Term Work Visa: Valid for up to three months, this visa can be extended and is designed for South African companies that need immediate assistance for urgent tasks when they cannot find a suitable local candidate.

General Work Visa: This visa requires approval from the Department of Labour, demonstrating that a South African employer is unable to find a South African citizen or permanent resident with the necessary skills and qualifications for a specific position.

Critical Skills Work Visa: Applicants must possess the relevant academic and professional qualifications, along with a fixed-term job offer in a field listed in the critical skills list, which is regularly updated.

Intra-Company Visa: This visa allows an employee to be transferred temporarily from their overseas position to a branch or affiliate of their foreign company in South Africa, where they will impart skills to local employees.