South Africa's growing economy, warm climate, and rich cultural history make the country an excellent choice for companies in the midst of international expansions. However, some companies are deterred by the complex...
Read MoreSouth Africa's growing economy, warm climate, and rich cultural history make the country an excellent choice for companies in the midst of international expansions. However, some companies are deterred by the complex employment laws and regulations surrounding work visas and permits for foreign citizens in South Africa.
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South Africa’s growing economy, warm climate, and rich cultural history make the country an excellent choice for companies in the midst of international expansions. However, some companies are deterred by the complex employment laws and regulations surrounding work visas and permits for foreign citizens in South Africa.
South Africa has several different categories of work visas, including:
For most companies planning to extend operations into South Africa, employees will need General Work Visas. This visa is valid for up to five years and can be renewed if necessary.
Permanent residence in South Africa is a possibility for employees with certain work visas. Workers are eligible to apply for permanent residence in South Africa after five years of living in the country with a General Work Visa. Individuals with Critical Skills Work Visas may apply for permanent residence permits immediately provided that they have five years of experience in their field.
Several factors determine what documentation is required to apply for a work visa in South Africa. Requirements may vary based on the type of visa being applied for, the applicant’s country of residence, and the embassy the application is lodged with. Common requirements include:
Keep in mind that there are additional requirements in many cases. For example, an applicant may need to provide police clearances from every country they’ve lived in as an adult or a cash deposit to cover the return trip to their country. For a full list of requirements, applicants should get in touch with the South African embassy or consulate in their country.
To get a visa to work in South Africa legally, the applicant must visit their country’s South African embassy, diplomatic representative, or consulate in person. They will need to bring the relevant documents along with them to apply, so they should confirm the requirements in advance.
The Department of Home Affairs will process and finalize all applications. Processing time will vary with the type of visa and location of the applicant.
In South Africa, a work permit must be secured and sponsored by the employer. The employer must be a locally licensed and incorporated entity. Companies without an established presence in South Africa can hire employees through a PEO, which acts as the Employer of Record.
You should also consider that some of your employees may be traveling with family, especially if your company plans to relocate members of your existing team. Spouses and children may receive residence visas after the employee has obtained a permanent residence permit or a work visa. Family members can also apply for work and study visas for their time in South Africa.
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At this moment, Globalization Partners does not offer support processing work visas or permits in this particular location.
For any other inquiries about our global employment platform, contact us today.
THIS CONTENT IS FOR INFORMATIONAL PURPOSES ONLY AND DOES NOT CONSTITUTE LEGAL OR TAX ADVICE. You should always consult with and rely on your own legal and/or tax advisor(s). G-P does not provide legal or tax advice. The information is general and not tailored to a specific company or workforce and does not reflect G-P’s product delivery in any given jurisdiction. G-P makes no representations or warranties concerning the accuracy, completeness, or timeliness of this information and shall have no liability arising out of or in connection with it, including any loss caused by use of, or reliance on, the information.
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