VISA CATEGORIES
A LEADING WORK VISA SERVICE PROVIDER
VISAS
Candidates who possess skills as specified on the critical skills list as published by the Department of Home Affairs, would qualify for a visa in this category.
Intra-Company Transfer Visa
Ideal for multi-national organisations transferring an existing employee from a foreign branch to a branch or affiliate in South Africa.
An application for a General Work Visa requires a certificate from the Department of Labour confirming the prospective employer has been unable to find a suitable citizen.
A corporate permit is a temporary work authorisation granted to a corporate entity to employ a pre-determined number of skilled/semi-skilled/unskilled workers.
Foreigners who are contemplating investing in the South African economy by establishing a business or by investing in an existing business in the country must apply for a business visa.
Visitors – Section 11(2)
An applicant may apply for visa authorisation to conduct work in South Africa on an urgent basis for a period of up to 3 months.
Persons who overstay their visas may be declared undesirable on their departure. This status can be reversed through a formal application with sufficient motivation.
In terms of granting Permanent Residency Permits, emphasis is placed on immigrants who are able to make a meaningful contribution to broadening the economic base of South Africa.
Retired persons visas may be issued to persons who wish to retire in South Africa, provided that such persons comply with the financial requirements.
A study visa allows a foreign national to reside in the Republic whilst studying at a South African institution of primary, secondary, or tertiary education.
Spouses and life partners of South African citizens and temporary or permanent residency holders are permitted to reside in South Africa based on their relationship.
A relative’s visa may be issued for a prescribed period by the Director-General to a foreigner who is a member of the immediate family of a South African citizen or a permanent resident.
Volunteer Visa’s
Volunteer visas allows foreign nationals to partake in volunteer or charity work within the Republic.
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
What is the difference between a visa and a permit?
Applications for temporary residence were known or referred to as ‘permits’, however following the Immigration law change in 2014, these ‘permits’ are now to be known as ‘visas’.
What types of visas are available?
Short term visas:
- Tourist/Visitor’s visa (Visitor visa in terms of Section 11 (1)
- Short term work visa (Visitor visa in terms of Section 11 (2)
- Business visa (applicable to meetings and conferences only)
- Medical treatment visa
Long term visas:
How do I qualify for a work visa?
As a first step, a careful assessment of your specific case will be required – such as review of your CV, qualifications and employment in South Africa (where applicable). Once we have reviewed the documents we will advise on which work visa category you would qualify for. Please feel free to contact us if you require assistance hereon.
How do I apply for a work visa or any other visa?
Any initial temporary residence visa is required to be filed within your home country or country of temporary residence. Generally temporary residence visas are renewable in South Africa, however this is dependent on the conditions as endorsed on your visa.
How long does it take to obtain a work visa?
Dependent on which work visa category you are applying for:
- Short term work visa: 2 – 3 weeks end to end and dependent on the availability of documents/urgency.
- General Work visa: 3 – 6 months end to end (inclusive of Waiver / Department of Labour processes).
- Critical Skills work visa: 2 – 3 months end to end, dependent on the availability of Police Clearance Certificates, professional body registration and SAQA evaluation.
- Intra-Company Transfer: Up to 2 months end to end and dependent on the availability of documentation.
* end-to-end: from the date of payment to receiving the visa
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