GENERAL WORK VISA
What is it?
The general work visa applies to occupations that are not currently recognised as critical skills on the condition that no local job seeker is available to fill the position offered to the foreigner. The general work visa can be issued for up to 5 years at a time.
- Foreign qualifications must be evaluated by the South African Qualifications Authority (SAQA) in terms of local educational standards
- The prospective employer must prove that, despite diligent search, the vacancy could not be filled by a local candidate
- The South African Department of Labour must attest that no suitable local candidate is listed on the DoL Employment Services Database, and there is no alternative to the employment of a foreigner.
- Spouses and children can apply for matching dependant visas to accompany the main visa holder to South Africa
- After 5 continuous years of employment in South Africa, the foreigner can apply for permanent residence status if they have been offered a permanent position. (Link to PRP worker)