Africa
South Africa immigration and visa guide
South Africa offers the Critical Skills Work Visa, the Remote Work (Digital Nomad) Visa (launched 2024), and permanent residence after 5 years.
Department of Home Affairs (DHA) & VFS Global
- Processing time
- 6 – 16 weeks
- Passport validity
- 6+ months
- Points-based system
- No
- Digital nomad friendly
- Yes
Visa options in South Africa
Key requirements
- For Critical Skills: qualification evaluated by SAQA (South African Qualifications Authority) and registration with relevant professional council
- For Digital Nomad Visa: gross annual foreign income of at least R1,000,000 ZAR (~$55,000 USD)
- Apostilled police clearance certificates and radiological/medical clearance reports
How to apply for a South Africa visa: step by step
- 1
SAQA Evaluation & Professional Body Confirmation
Submit degrees to SAQA for comparability certificate and obtain letter from professional council.
4 - 8 weeks
- 2
VFS Global DHA Lodgement
Submit visa application at the South African Embassy or VFS center.
6 - 12 weeks
- 3
Biometrics & Residence TRP Sticker
Receive temporary residence permit (TRP) sticker in passport with work authorization.
2 - 4 weeks
Official government links
Frequently asked questions
What is the SAQA certificate in South Africa?
The South African Qualifications Authority (SAQA) evaluates foreign academic qualifications to determine their equivalent level on the South African National Qualifications Framework (NQF).
Find a licensed adviser
For advice on your own case, use a licensed immigration lawyer or adviser. Always check they are registered before you pay anyone. Imiatlas does not refer or review cases.
Look for a lawyer registered with the national bar association or law society in South Africa. The official immigration website explains any rules on who may represent applicants.
Department of Home Affairs (DHA) & VFS GlobalGeneral information to help you research, not legal advice. Rules change often: always confirm with Department of Home Affairs (DHA) & VFS Global on the official website before applying.