GENERAL WORK VISA

A General Work Visa may be issued to any foreign national who intends to take up employment in South Africa on the basis of a firm offer of employment.

The amendment of the Immigration Act in 2014, saw the introduction of a Department of Labour Certificate process for those who wish to apply for a General Work Visa and this includes applications for renewals.

However, individuals who currently hold General Work Visas and wish to continue their employment in South Africa, may apply to the Minister to waive the Department of Labour Certificate requirement.

Department of Labour Certificate may be waived if you are still employed with the same company which is endorsed on your current General Work Visa

Exit and re-enter South Africa freely

If you have held a General Work Visa for more than five (5) continuous years, you may be able to progress to Permanent Residency

Processing time is between 8 – 12 weeks on average

What is Department of Labour Certificate?

The Department of Labour Certificate is issued by the Department, confirming that despite a diligent search the prospective employer has been unable to find a suitable citizen or permanent resident with qualifications or skills and experience equivalent to those of the applicant.

How do I apply for a waiver?

Where a General Work Visa holder has been endorsed to work for a specific employer and in a specific role, and he/she will continue his/her employment as endorsed on the visa, the aforementioned requirement may be waived as the Act identifies the requirement as applicable to “prospective employers”.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is a Waiver Letter?

It’s a formal written request to the Department of Home Affairs to set aside certain prescribed requirements, i.e. Where a General Work Visa holder has been endorsed to work for a specific employer and in a specific role, and he/she will continue his/her employment as endorsed on the visa, the Department of Labour Certificate may be waived as the Act identifies the requirement as applicable to “prospective employers” only. This can be submitted in-lieu of the Department of Labour Certificate.

I need to renew my General Work visa, what now?

As above, your case might require the necessary assessment in order to determine if –

You are currently employed with the same employer as endorsed on your visa and if so, a waiver may be optional; or
If you are not employed by the same employer and/or been offered new employment, alternative routes may need to be determined.

Can I change from a General Work visa to a Critical Skills work visa within the country?

Yes, however this must be done preferably 60 days before the expiry of your current visa or before you assume the new role.