South African Treaty Visa – Employment Under International Agreements
The South African Treaty Visa allows foreign nationals to conduct work related activities in South Africa under international treaty agreements. Moving South Immigration specialises in assisting applicants with compliant and strategic Treaty Visa applications.
Introduction
The Treaty Visa is designed for foreign nationals from countries that have a bilateral agreement or international treaty with South Africa. This visa enables qualifying applicants to enter and reside in South Africa for the purpose of conducting international employment activities in terms of the relevant treaty.
Treaty Visas are assessed in line with the specific provisions of the applicable international agreement, making the application process highly technical. At Moving South Immigration, we guide applicants through treaty eligibility assessment, document preparation, and submission to ensure alignment with both immigration law and treaty obligations.
Visa Requirements
Applicants are generally required to provide:
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A valid passport valid for no less than 30 days after intended departure from the Republic and at least two (2) blank pages
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Proof of nationality from a treaty-partner country
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Evidence of signed contracts of intended employment between the two relevant governments
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Supporting documentation as required under the specific international agreement
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Medical and police clearance certificates
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Compliance with Department of Home Affairs documentation requirements
Processing Time & What to Expect
Processing Time:
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Approximately 4–12 weeks, depending on treaty verification and Home Affairs or SA Embassy processing
What to Expect:
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Submission of a complete application referencing the applicable treaty
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Verification of treaty eligibility and supporting business documentation
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Assessment by the Department of Home Affairs
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Issuance of a Treaty Visa aligned with treaty terms and duration
