South African General Work Visa – Live and Work in South Africa
Moving South Immigration specialises in General Work Visas for South Africa, helping skilled foreign nationals secure employer-sponsored work permits and navigate the application process with expert guidance.
Introduction
The South African General Work Visa is designed for foreign nationals who have secured a fixed-term (not permanent) job offer from a South African employer and possess skills or experience that cannot be readily sourced within the local labour market. This visa allows qualifying individuals to live and work legally in South Africa for the duration of their employment contract.
For employers and applicants alike, the General Work Visa process is highly regulated and document-intensive, requiring strict compliance with Department of Home Affairs requirements. Applicants are expected to comply with the newly implemented Point-Based System and score at least 100 points. With professional guidance, applicants can navigate this complex process with greater confidence and reduced risk of delays or refusal. Moving South Immigration specialises in managing General Work Visa applications, providing expert support from initial assessment through to final approval.
Requirements for a South African General Work Visa
Applicants must meet specific eligibility criteria as prescribed by the South African Department of Home Affairs. While requirements may vary slightly depending on the applicant and employer, the following generally apply:
-
A valid passport valid for no less than 30 days after intended departure from the Republic and at least two (2) blank pages
-
A valid, fixed-term job offer from a South African employer
-
Proof that the applicant scored at least 100 points on the Point-Based System
-
Relevant qualifications and NQF level and proven work experience for the position
-
Employment contract signed by both the employer and applicant
-
Medical and radiological reports
-
Police clearance certificates from all countries of residence
-
Compliance with all Department of Home Affairs documentation requirements
General Work Visa Processing Time & What to Expect
General Work Visa applications follow a structured process, with timeframes influenced by employer compliance, document readiness, and application volumes..
1. Employer Compliance & Point-Based system assessment
This is often the most time-sensitive stage.
-
Timeframe: 2-3 weeks
-
The employer must advertise the position locally and obtain confirmation from the Department of Labour.
2. Application Preparation & Submission
-
Timeframe: 2–3 weeks
-
All documentation is collated, verified, and prepared for submission in line with Home Affairs requirements.
3. Visa Processing by the Department of Home Affairs
-
Timeframe: 8–12 weeks (may vary)
-
Applicants may be requested to provide additional information during this stage.
What Applicants Can Expect
Processing times are indicative and subject to change. Incomplete or incorrect documentation can lead to delays or refusals.
The visa is employer-specific, and employment may only commence once the visa is approved. Professional assistance significantly improves compliance and processing efficiency.
Moving South Immigration supports both employers and applicants throughout the process, ensuring all requirements are met and submissions are correctly prepared.
