This allows eligible foreign nationals to live and work in the country for up to five years, on the condition that their job role matches a profession and description on the official Critical Skills List. Employees who qualify for this visa may later apply for permanent residency, making this an appealing retention pathway.

What makes this visa so appealing among foreign nationals who are looking to relocate to South Africa is that it provides one of the most secure and attractive entryways into the country. However, it is important to understand that this visa is highly criteria-driven, requiring applicants to show verifiable qualifications, work experience, and, where applicable, professional registration.

Here follows an updated 2026 guide on requirements and common issues applicants face regarding Critical Skills Visas:

View the official Critical Skills List here.

Critical Skills Visa Requirements

The Critical Skills Visa is designed to attract skilled and experienced foreign professionals with evidence-backed expertise into a job role that is considered ‘critical’ in South Africa. To successfully secure this visa, your application must meet several non-negotiable requirements:

• Your job description must exactly match the Organising Framework for Occupations (OFO) description.
• The South African Qualifications Authority (SAQA) must validate all foreign qualifications.
• You must be registered with the relevant South African professional council (if applicable).
• A formal job offer from a South African employer for a fixed period not exceeding five years.
• Transcripts, degree certificates, and proof of qualifications.
• A thorough CV and proof of experience.
• Police clearance certificates from where you have resided for the last five years.
• Medical report.

Common Reasons for Visa Refusal

It is not uncommon for Critical Skills Visa applications to be rejected due to incomplete or inaccurate information, missing documentation, or failure to adhere to set deadlines or timeframes. Listed below are some of the top reasons applications are rejected:

• Submitting your application under the incorrect OFO code or application category.
• Either failing to register or registering with the incorrect professional body.
• Foreign qualification evaluations that are incomplete or improperly certified (SAQA).
• Inadequate or missing proof of post-qualification experience.
• Irrelevant or unverified job offers that are not from a registered employer.
• Failure to submit a renewal 60 days before the expiry date.
• Handing in expired documentation (e.g. police clearance or contract of employment).

How Can GREENBERG HATHWAY MACMILLAN Help You?

Due to the Department of Home Affairs (DHA) still addressing administrative backlogs and strict adjudication, it is widely recommended to seek professional assistance to effectively navigate the visa application process. At GREENBERG HATHWAY MACMILLAN, we aim to guide each and every candidate through their immigration journey, ensuring that all necessary documentation and requirements are present and correct.

CONTACT our experienced team today and allow us to make your move to South Africa a reality.

The post Critical Skills Visa SA: 2026 Updated Guide first appeared on GHM.

Deputy Minister Ntuthuko Sibiya observed that many businesses have been ‘budgeting not to comply’ with the country’s employee immigration laws. Sibiya continues to explain that due to current court fines not being high enough, employers are able to simply set money aside to pay the fines while continuing to exploit illegal labour to maximise their own profits.

DEL Launches Crackdown on Undocumented Foreign Employees

In addition to the recruitment of 10,000 labour inspectors, Deputy Minister Sibiya has further announced that the department plans to impose fines of up to R100,000 per undocumented worker on employers found hiring illegal immigrants. These measures are to be implemented in an attempt to strengthen the enforcement of South Africa’s labour and immigration laws.

During his national address, President Cyril Ramaphosa outlined the following measures to address present immigration challenges:

• Escalating inspections, arrests, deportations, and prosecutions of undocumented foreign nationals, while increasing penalties for employers who hire them illegally.
• Relocating refugee reception centres in closer proximity to border posts while reinforcing border control through improved technology, infrastructure, and personnel.
• Oppose corruption, implementing biometric-based digital identification, phasing out the green ID books, and refining identity verification systems.
• Adjusting immigration and labour laws, introducing quotas for foreign workers and improving the regulation of businesses and informal traders.
• Working alongside African countries and regional bodies to address the root causes of migration, such as conflict, poverty, and limited economic opportunities.

What Are the Legal Requirements When Hiring Foreigners?

The employment of foreign nationals in South Africa is regulated by the Immigration Act 13 of 2002. Before being employed by a South African business, all foreign employees must first possess a valid passport and a necessary work visa, permanent residency, or citizenship. As a foreigner starting a journey in South Africa, there are categories of work visas that can be considered:

• General Work Visa – A points-based system, wherein an applicant must have relevant qualifications, work experience and an offer of employment from a South African employer.
• Critical Skills Work Visa – An applicant must have academic and professional skills and qualifications, as well as a fixed-term job contract in a specific field as indicated in the critical skills list.
• Intra-Company Transfer Work Visa – An employee is seconded from their employment abroad to temporarily work and transfer skills to South Africans in a branch or affiliate of the foreign company which has business in South Africa.
• Corporate Visa – Temporary work authorisation granted to a corporate entity to employ a pre-determined number of skilled/semi-skilled/unskilled foreign nationals for a specific period.

Are you considering applying for a work visa in South Africa? At GREENBERG HATHWAY MACMILLAN, it is our goal to assist each and every candidate with their immigration process.

CONTACT us today and allow us to make your immigration goals a reality.

The post Hiring Foreigners? 10,000 Inspectors Are Watching first appeared on GHM.

The short answer to this question is “Yes, spouses can join work visa holders in South Africa”; however, they must apply for their own spousal visa to accompany the main visa holder. South Africa offers both spousal and life partner visas specifically designed to enable spouses and life partners to join their significant others who are working and living in the country. Learn more about the requirements of a spousal visa, as well as the documents required.

If you are the spouse of someone who is pursuing their dream career in South Africa, you will have the opportunity to apply for an Accompanying Spouse Visa. This visa allows you, as the spouse of a work visa holder, to reside in the country for up to three years, and this visa is renewable. It is important to note that simply holding an accompanying spouse visa does not grant you the right to work or study in South Africa.

To be able to apply for this, applicants need to provide proof of relationship, which means that spouses must provide proof of marriage or a life partnership agreement with the work visa holder. Other requirements include proof of financial support and a medical certificate.

The accompanying spouse visa is typically issued to life partners or spouses for a period of three years, even if the duration of the main applicant’s visa is for a longer period. We have shared tips for a smooth immigration experience in South Africa, to get you on track.

If you, as a spouse of a work visa holder, wish to work, run a business, or study, you will need to apply for a visa other than that of an ‘accompanying spouse’. This means spouses will need to obtain specific permission for work, study, or business activities since these rights are not automatic.

Spouses of South African citizens or permanent residents

In the case of the spouse being a citizen or a permanent resident, the foreign spouse can apply for a spousal visa, and the visa can be issued with an endorsement to work, study, or start a business. The foreign spouse does not need to meet the criteria for a general work visa or critical skills visa. There must be financial assurance, and the South African spouse must provide assurance for the foreign spouse, typically R8,500 a month. Additionally, the foreign spouse may be eligible for permanent residence after five years of marriage.

If your spouse recently received a job offer in South Africa and you both are looking to immigrate, consult one of our talented immigration practitioners at GREENBERG HATHWAY MACMILLAN today for the most up-to-date information and guidance. CONTACT US for assistance or more information.

The post Can Spouses Join Work Visa Holders in SA? first appeared on GHM.

The Role of Tourism in Job Creation

With tourism now accounting for over 11% of all employment in South Africa, it confirms its status as a vital pillar of the national economy. Tourism jobs are roles typically in the travel and hospitality industry that provide services to visitors to the country, including everything from planning travel to providing lodging. The sector’s resilience and recovery from the pandemic have been key drivers behind this unprecedented job growth, contributing to the broader economic recovery and long-term development goals of the country.

Future Growth Projections for the Tourism Sector

Additional projections indicate that by the year 2035, the travel sector could support up to three million jobs if this current growth trend continues. Despite these positive trends, challenges still remain with issues related to GDP growth and international visitor spending, though this performance in job creation is a promising sign for SA’s future.

Immigrants seeking job opportunities in the tourism sector, especially in roles like hospitality, travel services, and tour operations, are welcome to pursue this in South Africa, which will ultimately lead to increased labour migration. The tourism industry often relies on a diverse workforce, which often includes foreign workers, to fill specialised or seasonal positions. Considering working in South Africa? Here is insight into the point-based work visa and what you need to know. Our team of immigration consultants can assist you in applying for your business visa successfully.

This creates a great opportunity for individuals who have been thinking about coming to South Africa but have been halted due to uncertainty regarding job opportunities.

A Rebound After the Pandemic

The pandemic dealt an extremely hard blow to our country’s economy, and tourism was a thing of the past as no one could travel, neither within the country nor from outside to inside. Over the years, we have slowly but surely started to recover, but this remarkable growth in opportunities is something to note, and we encourage you, as a South African or even a foreigner, to grab this opportunity with both hands.

If you want to know more about opportunities for you in South Africa and how you can come over for work in the tourism industry, CONTACT US. The Digital Nomad Visa is South Africa’s new opportunity for individuals seeking flexibility and new experiences. Our team of attorneys at GREENBERG HATHWAY MACMILLAN, and we will support you step by step from your application to obtaining your visa.

The post Tourism Jobs in South Africa Reach Historic Highs first appeared on GHM.

It is important to understand these nuances as the rules may dictate not only who can work but also the duration of employment and the types of jobs foreigners can fill. Work permits are designed to ensure that the local labour markets are protected while still allowing for the necessary expertise and skill from abroad to complement talent.

In South Africa, work permits or temporary visas for work are issued to individuals by the Department of Home Affairs (DHA). However, applications for temporary residence visas are processed and finalised at foreign offices of the DHA, and travel arrangements should only be made once the visa has been approved.

Some types of visas include:

• General Work Visas are typically issued to foreigners where it has been proven beyond a reasonable doubt that South African citizens and permanent residents with the relevant skills or qualifications and experience are not available for appointment.
• The Minister of Home Affairs publishes a critical skills list in the Government Gazette. To be able to apply for a Critical Skills Work Visa, you are required to provide proof of your qualifications.
• In other circumstances, multi-national companies may decide to transfer one of their existing employees in a key position from a foreign branch to a branch, an affiliate, or a subsidiary of that company in South Africa. This individual will need to apply for an Intra-Company Transfer Work Visa.

The process of securing a work permit often involves a detailed application process that requires comprehensive documentation. There are specific quotas or conditions that can affect the approval of work permit applications. Therefore, organisations and foreign nationals looking for work in South Africa need to be proactive in understanding not just the paperwork that is required, but also the socio-economic context that might influence permit issuance. Furthermore, the significance of staying current with changing regulations cannot be overstated. South Africa and neighbouring countries are experiencing rapid shifts in policies due to economic needs, political changes, and international agreements.

Individuals and organisations that invest time in understanding the framework of work permits will be better equipped to navigate the complexities and avoid costly delays. In essence, work permits are more than just legal documents; they serve as gateways to operational success and compliance.

If you wish to successfully obtain a work permit in South Africa, it requires more than just completing paperwork; it demands an understanding of the country’s legal framework, shifting socio-economic factors, and labour market priorities. By staying informed and proactive, you can position yourself for a smoother application process, ensure compliance, and avoid unnecessary delays. CONTACT US and talk to our team at GREENBERG HATHWAY MACMILLAN for more information on work visas, temporary visas, visa renewals, and more.

The post Work Permits in South Africa: Essential Guide first appeared on GHM.

What is the Points-Based Work Visa?

The Points-Based Work Visa is a permit that allows foreign individuals to get employment in South Africa based on the total points they accumulate. Therefore, applicants have to earn required points (100) to qualify for the general work visa. But these points depend on several standards such as work experience, educational qualifications, language fluency, and income level. This system offers an organised and transparent approach that helps to evaluate skilled individuals’ applications, rather than focusing on subjective assessments.

Eligibility Requirements and Points System

Candidates must meet the criteria and accumulate at least 100 points to qualify for a General Work Visa.

• Educational Qualifications: Applicants score points based on their strong academic background, such as the National Qualification Framework levels. For example, individuals who possess a master’s degree (NQF 9) or a Doctorate (NQF 10) can earn up to 50 points, while a bachelor’s degree (NQF 7) or an honours degree (NQF 8) obtain 30 points.
• Work Experience: Applicants get points depending on their solid work experience in a relevant field. For example, five to ten years of experience is 20 points and 30 points for candidates with ten years. Additionally, if you are employed by an employer recognised under the South African Trusted Employer Scheme, you will receive another 30 points.
• Language Skills: Applicants must be proficient in one of South Africa’s Official languages or English to be given ten points.
• Salary Level: The candidate’s income influences the scoring process and shows their economic contribution and benefit. For example, individuals who are earning a gross annual salary above R976,194 gross per annum will obtain 50 points, and those with salaries between R650,976 and R976,194 receive 20 points.

Advantages of SA’s New Points-Based Work Visa

1. Efficient and transparent visa application process for the candidates.
2. The system facilitates skilled professionals for migration.
3. Quick application process and streamlined paperwork.

How Can GREENBERG HATHWAY MACMILLAN (GHM) Assist?

GREENBERG HATHWAY MACMILLAN is an experienced team in South African Immigration. When it comes to applying for a Points-Based Work Visa, we can provide you with guidance on eligibility criteria and points calculation to check if you meet the 100-point threshold. Contact us for more information and advice on the Points-Based Work Visa.

The post Guide to South Africa’s New Points-Based Work Visa first appeared on GHM.

This opportunity grants remote workers freedom to explore the country’s popular destinations and enjoy a great work-life balance. There are many reasons why South Africa’s digital nomad visa is considered the “most attractive visa” for remote visitors. In this guide, we’ll take you through the necessary information for the application process.

Step-by-step guide through the Application Process of South Africa’s Remote Work Visa

Step One: Eligibility Criteria

• Employment Status: Applicants must work remotely for clients and companies based abroad. It’s important to remember that this type of visa is not applicable for foreign nationals seeking employment in South Africa.
• Valid Visa: You must have a valid passport for at least 30 days after the visa term with two blank pages.
• Income Thresholds: Applicants must prove that they have adequate finances to support themselves while residing in South Africa as a remote worker. You need to provide a contract of employment confirming that your gross salary that is not less than R650,976.00 annually.
• Criminal Record: Applicants should submit a clean criminal background check from the country of residence in the last three years.
• Yellow Fever Vaccination: If an applicant plans to or has travelled from a yellow fever area, they must show the vaccine certificate.

Step Two: Gather Required Documentation

1. Valid Passport copies.
2. Passport Photographs.
3. Proof of remote work eligibility, such as an employment contract signed by employer.
4. Proof of income and sufficient finances.
5. Evidence of accommodation in South Africa for the period of your stay.

Step Three: Fill in and Complete the Application Form

Applicants should visit the official Department of Home Affairs website to access and download the remote work visa application form. After the download, you should provide required information and signatures. It’s important to check that the form is accurately completed and go through it to avoid errors that may result in the delay of your application.

Step Four: Submit the Application Form

Applicants should book an appointment before visiting their nearest Visa Facilitation Services (VFS) Centre or a South African Embassy to hand in the application form. You might be required to provide biometric data, which consists of fingerprints and photographs. If Applicants should possess original documents and additional copies.

Step Five: Application Fee Payment

Applicants will be expected to pay the visa application fee during submission, and the fee differs based on location. However, if you are using the Visa Facilitation Services Centre, be prepared to pay the additional charges for their assistance.

Step Six: Visa Processing Time

The processing period for South Africa’s Remote Work Visa application typically takes six to eight weeks, with the UK taking 12 weeks and some embassies in Africa taking longer. It’s important to note that the processing time differs, and you are advised to track the visa application through the embassy. During this process, applicants might be requested for interviews or submission of missing or extra documentation.

Step Seven: Receive Your Remote Work Visa

Once your application for a remote work visa is approved and released, ensure that you have the necessary documents and start travelling to South Africa. When it comes to securing the correct work permit in South Africa, we can guide you through your options.

Remote workers need to note that they are not allowed to search for employment in South Africa. If you have any considerations and need clarification on South Africa’s Remote Work Visa, contact GREENBERG HATHWAY MACMILLAN (GHM). Our team of experts will assist and provide advice to make your application process less complicated.

The post How to Apply for South Africa’s Remote Work Visa first appeared on GHM.

The e-visa system in South Africa aims to promote tourism and improve travel efficiency in the country. Coming to South Africa on holiday? This system also improves border security when it comes to inspecting travellers before their entrance in the country. This development is viewed as a step forward in South Africa’s immigration process.

Advantages of the E-Visa System

• Convenience: The e-visa system allows applicants to apply and submit their application from any location in the world, without the need to visit consulates or an embassy. This option permits travellers to complete their visa applications efficiently.
• Time-Saving: Different from the traditional paper applications, the e-visa system is not time-consuming. The digital submissions are quicker when it comes to applicants receiving responses and approval regarding their visas.
• Accessibility: The new electronic visa system is convenient and accessible to more people regardless of their location. The online process option is more direct and reduces the challenges that come with a paperwork application.

The Application Process

The online application process of the e-visa in South Africa starts with a visit to the official website, where you are expected to complete a digital form regarding personal details. Secondly, essential documents such as a valid passport, travel itinerary, and recent photographs are required. However, other documents may be necessary depending on the purpose of the visit. After submitting the application and payment of the prescribed fee, a confirmation email will be sent to track the application status. The approval generally takes 2-4 weeks; early application is advised for possible delays.

Types of E-Visas Available

E-visas that are eligible for people that are planning to visit South Africa on different occasions.

The first permit is a Tourist/Visitors Visa, which is permitted for travellers who are in the country for relatives, and tourism. The second permit is a short term Business Visa, which is for people travelling for business-related operations such as conferences, meetings or short term work assignments in South Africa. The Transit Visa is permitted for travellers passing through the country to a final location. Additionally, all these different visa permits require travellers to possess a valid passport, proof of accommodation, and finances during their stay in South Africa. However, for transit you should possess travel information for your final destination, while for business you should provide a letter from the employer, and information about business activities.

To be eligible for an e-visa, you need to hold a valid passport that has not expired for a minimum period of six months after you plan to leave South Africa. It’s essential to not have a history of criminal offences and immigration violations that could lead to an entry delay to the country.

How Can GREENBERG HATHWAY MACMILLAN Guide You with E-Visa Digital Application?

GREENBERG HATHWAY MACMILLAN (GHM) are a team of experts that will guide you through the e-visa application process. We offer step-by-step assistance regarding essential documents and requirements. Our experienced team is here to provide you with legal advice addressing potential challenges and compliance with immigration law during your digital application. CONTACT US today for more information regarding the e-visa before starting your travel to South Africa.

The post E-Visas: Streamlining South African Travel first appeared on GHM.

The system was implemented with the aim of streamlining the processing of work visa applications and providing a more objective and transparent way to assess applicant eligibility.

For educational qualifications, individuals who hold a National Qualification Framework (NQF) level 9, which refers to a master’s degree, or level 10, which is a doctoral degree, can earn 50 points. Whereas someone with a NQF of level 7, which refers to a bachelor’s degree or advanced diploma, or level 8, which includes individuals with a postgraduate diploma, bachelor of honours, or equivalent, are awarded 30 points. An individual’s salary also plays a significant role in the scoring process. Candidates who are earning a gross annual salary above R976,194 gross per annum will receive 50 points, while others with a salary falling between R650,976 and R976,194 gross per annum will earn 20 points.

However, experience is another criterion, with candidates accruing 20 points for five to ten years of work experience and 30 points for over ten years of work experience in a field. Moreover, candidates who apply and have been offered employment by an employer recognised under the Trusted Employer Scheme get another 30 points added to a candidate’s score. For speaking at least one of South Africa’s official languages, another 10 points are earned.

In order to qualify for either a Critical Skills Work Visa or a General Work Visa, applicants must accumulate at least 100 points. Obtaining a Work Visa with GREENBERG HATHWAY MACMILLAN Attorneys results in a streamlined process.

How GREENBERG HATHWAY MACMILLAN Can Assist You in Applying for a Points-Based Work Visa

We can assist by conducting a thorough assessment of your academic qualifications, work experience, salary, and language proficiency. This evaluation helps you calculate your total points to determine if you meet the 100-point threshold necessary for obtaining either a Critical Skills or General Work Visa.

One of the top services provided by GREENBERG HATHWAY MACMILLAN is the fact that we assist our clients in gathering and verifying all required documents. At GREENBERG HATHWAY MACMILLAN, we keep our clients informed about updates in the immigration policy to ensure your application aligns with the latest legislation and scoring framework.

If you or someone you know requires assistance with obtaining a Points-Based Work Visa, get in touch with our team today to simplify the visa process, reduce the likelihood of delays or rejections, and ultimately increase your chances of obtaining the appropriate visa through tailored legal support. CONTACT US today for professional assistance.

The post Points-Based Work Visa: What You Need to Know first appeared on GHM.

Not only does the fact that South Africa now offers a Digital Nomad Visa benefit the country in various ways, but it also boasts a multitude of benefits for the applicants as well. This visa will be beneficial, especially for individuals who are looking for flexibility, new experiences, and a high quality of life while maintaining their careers.

Why is South Africa’s Digital Nomad Visa the “most attractive visa” for remote workers? Here are some key benefits of this visa:

1. Living in South Africa Legally

One of the most notable benefits of applying for a DNV is the fact that applicants who obtain this visa will be allowed to stay in South Africa legally for extended periods, which can last for up to three years and is renewable from within the country. Remote workers will be able to live in SA without the need to apply for complex work permits or tourist visa extensions. This also avoids common issues related to short-term work visas (often sought for short-term work assignments in SA) and contravening a tourist visa, which is strictly for you to be a tourist in the country.

2. Enjoying Work-Life Balance in a Beautiful Location

When applying for the Digital Nomad Visa in South Africa you are guaranteed to enjoy a work-life balance in a beautiful location. South Africa is renowned for its breathtaking landscapes, vibrant cities and various experiences from safari rides and wine tastings to beaches and cultural hubs. The top cities in South Africa such as Cape Town, Durban and even Johannesburg are ideal for remote work as they boast strong expat and freelancer communities.

3. Indulge in an Affordable Lifestyle

Compared to Western countries, South Africa provides you with a high quality of life at a lower cost. Earnings in foreign currency stretches further, especially for those earning in dollars, euros or pounds. You can benefit greatly from the cost of living on a Digital Nomad Visa in South Africa.

4. Thriving Coworking Scene

Since South Africa joined the list of countries who offer a digital nomad visa, there has been a significant rise in the number of coworking spaces, cafés and digital nomad hubs. Here you will have access to fast internet in major cities and a very supportive remote working infrastructure.

5. Focus on your Personal & Professional Growth

Living abroad can give you a sense of adventure, but not only that, you will build on your resilience, adaptability, as well as creativity. Another benefit of remote working is the fact that being in a new environment tends to inspire productivity and perhaps even drive you towards new business or creative ventures.

Overall, the Digital Nomad Visa empowers remote workers with freedom, security and the chance to experience the South African lifestyle all while continuing to build their careers from one of the most beautiful countries in the world.

Are you currently working remotely? Perhaps you should consider applying for South Africa’s Digital Nomad Visa and learn how it could open doors for your remote work lifestyle. At GREENBERG HATHWAY MACMILLAN, we provide expert guidance and can help you obtain the best Business Visa for your needs.

CONTACT US today for assistance with your Digital Nomad Visa application and any other information you may require.

The post Digital Nomad Visa: South Africa’s New Opportunity first appeared on GHM.