South African Work Visas: Points-Based System and Categories
South Africa offers a range of work visa options tailored to meet various professional needs and align with the country’s labor market priorities. This guide breaks down the visa categories, including the Points-Based Work Visa, Critical Skills Work Visa, Intra-Company Transfer Work Visa, and the Digital Nomad Visa.
Points-Based Work Visa
The Points-Based Work Visa streamlines the process for skilled professionals, replacing the general work visa. Applicants must meet a minimum threshold of 100 points, assessed based on the following criteria:
| Criteria | Points (Max) |
| Occupation: On the Critical Skills List | 100 |
| Qualifications: NQF Levels 9-10 | 50 |
| NQF Levels 7-8 | 30 |
| Employment Offer (Mandatory): Above R976,194 gross per annum | 50 |
| Between R650,976 and R976,194 gross per annum | 20 |
| Work Experience: 5-10 years | 20 |
| 10+ years | 30 |
| Employment Status: Offer from a Trusted Employer | 30 |
| Language Proficiency: Proficient in at least one official language | 10 |
How It Works:
- Applicants scoring 100 points via an occupation on the Critical Skills List may qualify for a Critical Skills Work Visa.
- If the 100-point threshold is reached through other combinations, applicants may be issued a General Work Visa, subject to other requirements like police clearance and medical reports.
Critical Skills Work Visa
This visa targets professionals with expertise in areas critical to South Africa’s development. It requires:
- Proof of skills listed in the Critical Skills List (updated annually by the Department of Home Affairs).
- A valid employment offer aligned with the critical skill.
- Registration with a recognized professional body and South African Qualifications Authority (SAQA) evaluation for foreign qualifications.
Objective:
To address acute skill shortages in high-priority sectors such as technology, healthcare, and engineering.
Intra-Company Transfer Work Visa
Ideal for professionals transferring within multinational organizations, this visa ensures smooth transitions for corporate employees seconded to South African branches.
Requirements:
- Affiliation between the foreign and South African companies.
- Proof of six months of continuous employment with the foreign entity before application.
- Valid for up to 4 years, allowing sufficient time for knowledge transfer and contributions.
Digital Nomad Visa
For remote workers seeking flexibility, the Digital Nomad Visa allows foreign professionals to reside in South Africa while working remotely for a non-South African employer.
Requirements:
- A gross annual income of at least R650,796, supported by three months of bank statements.
- A valid contract of employment with a foreign employer.
- Proof of return flight and sufficient financial means for the intended stay.
- Tax compliance depending on the applicant’s tax residency status.
Key Conditions:
- Holders cannot take up local employment.
- Visa validity ranges from 3 months to 3 years, with strict regulations on changing visa status.
For assistance with your South African work visa application, our immigration experts provide end-to-end guidance. Whether you’re a skilled professional, corporate transferee, or remote worker, we ensure a seamless application process to meet your needs.