SOUTH AFRICA
This profile has been created as an introductory guide to the common corporate immigration procedures for South Africa. The intent is to provide a general outline of immigration processes only, since rules and requirements in every country are constantly changing and each case must be assessed on its own merits. For in depth advice relating to your specific queries and details of other visas not listed here, please contact us.
Which Immigration Category?
The most common visa category for temporary employment in South Africa is the Intra Company Transfer Work Permit, which enables employers to sponsor approved skilled migrants to work in South Africa on temporary assignments.
Business visitors can be granted a Visitor Visa, which is for a foreign national seeking to enter South Africa temporarily for permitted business activities.
A) Overview of ICT Work Permit Applications
Certain documents must be gathered before commencing the permit application, which include:
- Police clearance certificate from every country the intended assignee has resided in for 12 months or longer since the age of 18
- Original medical certificate
- Original radiological report
- Marriage certificates for accompanying dependents
1. Work Permit Application
The assignee must submit an ICT Work Permit application at the South African Department of Home Affairs consular post in his/her country of residence or nationality, with all necessary supporting documents.
Once the ICT Work Permit has been approved and issued, the assignee may travel to South Africa to commence employment.
Processing time is between 2-6 weeks.
What is the duration of an ICT Work Permit?
The Work Permit for intra company transferees can be issued for up to 2 years for the initial Permit. Once these 2 years have expired the assignee can apply for a General Work Permit, which includes a resident labour market test (RLMT), but an application for a waiver of the RLMT requirement can be made.
Dependants
In respect of family members of a foreign national who is granted an ICT Work Permit, spouses and children under the age of 18 can accompany the principal applicant. However, requirements vary on a case by case basis and additional work permits are necessary to enable dependants to seek employment and study in South Africa. For more details on whether your family members are eligible for a dependant visa, please contact us.
B) Overview of Business Vistor Visa Applications
Permitted Business activities include:
1) Business discussions / meetings
2) Seminars / conferences
3) Negotiations
What is the duration of a Visitor Visa?
A Visitor Visa is usually granted to business travellers for up to 90 days, which can be extended in country up to 180 days in total.
Non-compliance
Non-compliance with South African immigration rules could incur penalties such as fines, deportation or even imprisonment. It is therefore of the utmost importance that your company is always up-to-date on the latest immigration requirements, and Newland Chase can take care of all your compliance needs. For details, please contact us.
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