Temporary Residence Visas South Africa
Work, retired, business, family, and remote work visas, with structured eligibility checks and document planning.
Choosing
the Right Visa
If you intend to live, work, study, or do business in South Africa for a defined period, you must apply under the correct temporary residence category.
Preparation matters. Most rejections are caused by incorrect supporting documents, missing requirements, or selecting the wrong visa type.
Main Visa Categories
If you have been offered employment in South Africa, and your skills and qualifications fall within the list of professions viewed as critical to South Africa, you may qualify for a Critical Skills Visa.
Before applying for the visa, you will need to have your foreign qualifications evaluated by the South African Qualifications Authority (SAQA) and apply for membership with the necessary professional body.
Applicants for Critical Skills Work visas can now apply for an initial 12-month work visa with proof of an application submitted to SAQA, where SAQA evaluation is still pending.
A Critical Skills Work Visa is valid for a maximum period of five years and can be renewed within South Africa.
If you have been offered employment in South Africa, and do not qualify for a Critical Skills Visa you may be eligible for a General Work Visa. In October 2024, a Points Based System was introduced for the adjudication of General Work Visa applications.
In order to qualify, you will need to score a minimum of 100 points on the matrix below:
| Criteria | Points (%) | Criteria | Points (%) | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Occupation: | Occupation on critical skills list | 100 | ||
| Qualifications: | NQF levels 9 and 10 | 50 | NQF levels 7 and 8 | 30 |
| Offer of Employment (Mandatory) | Above ZAR 976,194 gross per annum | 50 | Between ZAR 650,976 and ZAR 976,194 gross per annum | 20 |
| Work Experience: | 10+ years | 30 | 5 – 10 years | 20 |
| Employment status: | Offer from Trusted Employer (TES) | 30 | ||
| Language skills: | Proficient in at least one official language | 10 |
The Points Based System does not apply to ZEP holders. Applicants for General Work visas can now apply for an initial 12-month work visa with proof of an application submitted to SAQA, where SAQA evaluation is still pending.
A General Work Visa is valid for a maximum period of five years and can be renewed within South Africa
If you are the spouse or permanent life partner of a South African citizen or permanent resident, you may request that your visa be endorsed for work, study, or business purposes.
The Spousal Visa (with Endorsement) is valid for a maximum period of three years and can be renewed within South Africa.
f you are seeking to establish or invest in a business in South Africa, you will need a Business Visa. A letter of recommendation from the Department of Trade and Industry, based on an assessment of the feasibility of the business and its potential contribution to South Africa’s national interest, is required for a Business Visa.
When applying for a Business Visa, you will have to prove your ability to invest ZAR 5 million in the business and ensure that 60% of the total staff complement are South African citizens or permanent residents. However, certain businesses may apply to waive the ZAR 5 million investment requirement.
A Business Visa is valid for three years and may be renewed within South Africa.
If you wish to retire in South Africa, you will need to show that you receive a passive monthly income of ZAR 37, 000. Importantly, this income must come from a pension, irrevocable annuity, retirement account, or from your net worth. A Retired Person’s Visa can be endorsed for work purposes in limited circumstances.
A Retired Person’s Visa is valid for a maximum period of four years and can be renewed within South Africa.
If you wish to reside in South Africa, while working for a foreign based employer, you will need to show an annual income of at least ZAR 650 976 to qualify for a Remote Work Visa. A Remote Work Visa may be issued for up to three years and can be renewed within South Africa.
If you spend more than 183 days in South Africa during any 12-month period, you may be liable to register for tax. Lee and Truter Attorneys highly recommends that prospective applicants consult with a South African tax practitioner to ensure compliance.
Other Temporary Residence Categories
01
Visitor Visa
For tourism and short stays up to 90 days. Applications depend on proof of funds, travel plans, and clear supporting documentation. Visitor visas may be renewed once in South Africa for a further 90 days.
02
Visitor Visa with Work Endorsement
Limited short-term work on a 90-day visa under specific circumstances.
03
Intra-Company Transfer Visa
For employees temporarily transferred from foreign company to a branch, subsidiary, or affiliate company in South Africa for a period of up to four years.
04
Medical Treatment Visa
For foreign nationals entering South Africa for medical care. Requires letter from registered medical service provider and proof of sufficient funds.
05
Study Visa
For applicants looking to study in South Africa. Allows for part-time work.
06
Exchange Visa
For participation in qualifying exchange programmes.
07
Relative’s Visa
For qualifying relatives of South African citizens or permanent residents.
08
Accompanying Spouse and Children
Dependent applications linked to a primary visa holder.
Not Sure Which Visa Applies?
Book a consultation, and we’ll validate the correct route and what your application should include.