South Africa
South Africa
September 2010
This summary is intended for informational purposes only and should not be considered an authoritative guide on how to obtain work authorization in South Africa. The intent is to give the reader a general overview of the process only. Procedures and requirements may have changed since the writing of this article or may have been inaccurately characterized in it. For current and detailed information regarding the topics below, as well as documentary requirements, processing times, post-arrival and departure requirements, penalties for non-compliance, allowances for accompanying family members, and any other information pertaining to your specific needs, please contact your Pro-Link GLOBAL immigration professional.
Overview
BUSINESS VISITOR
Permitted Activities - Business visitors must generally limit their activities to the following:
- Attending training, interviews, business meetings or discussions
- Attending seminars or "fact-finding" meetings
Type of Business Visas – The Visa type will depend on the nationality of the traveler. The following are examples of the types of business visa that are available to the business traveler.
1. Visitor’s visa for business purposes
Basic Requirements –
1. Intention of a genuine visit for business and not for paid employment;
2. Good health and character;
3. Evidence that there are no restrictions on his or her traveling to South Africa;
4. No intention to permanently reside in South Africa;
5. A ticket for onward travel from South Africa
Estimated Processing Times – This varies by diplomatic post and country.
Maximum Time On Visa - This visa allows business people to make a short business visit to South Africa for up to three months. Visas can be extended in country.
Typical Documents Required –
All travelers need to present the following documents to officers in immigration clearance:
- a valid passport or other acceptable travel document
- a valid visa or authority to enter South Africa
EMPLOYMENT AUTHORIZATION
Basic Requirements - There are several different corporate immigration categories in South Africa. The most commonly used immigration category for temporary employment in South Africa is the intra-company work permit. This is a category for South African employers to sponsor approved skilled workers to work in South Africa on a temporary basis.
Who is this visa for? - This visa is for employers who would like to employ overseas workers to fill skilled or managerial positions in South Africa.
Process Overview - The process for obtaining an intra-company work and residence permit involves a one step process summarized below.
1. Work permit application, submitted to the South African diplomatic post in the applicant's country of residence.
Please note that medicals and police clearances will be required for all applications.
Estimated Processing Time – two to six weeks
Validity periods - With this visa you can employ overseas workers for up to two years.
Family Members – Secondary/ family dependants may not work without separate work authorisation.
