Visa Types
South Africa Work Visa Essentials
Apply to work in South Africa, extend a work permit or hire a foreign worker.
Key Points for South Africa Work Visa >>>
Do you need a visa to travel to South Africa?
Yes, Indians need visa to travel to South Africa.
South Africa visa application is made online or offline?
The visa application process requires offline submission by downloading and submitting the visa application form to the VFS Centre.
Do I need to give biometrics?
Yes, biometrics are required for obtain a visa.
Is there an interview required to obtain a South Africa visa?
No, an interview is not usually required to obtain a South Africa visa, but it may vary. Embassy may interview you by phone or in person.
What is the maximum length of stay permitted on a work visa?
The maximum length of stay on a work visa in South Africa is 5 years. If you need to stay for more than 5 years, you need to apply for permanent residency.
What kind of visa will we acquire from South Africa?
It will be a physical sticker visa, which will be affixed to a page on your passport .
Current Visa fees: (Updated on 01-10-2024)
Visa Fee and Logistic mentioned below is per applicant and need to pay in Cash & Card.
|
Long Term Visa |
Visa Fee |
|
Study Visa |
INR 2210/- For North & East India |
|
Study Visa |
INR 2207/- For West & South India |
VFS Logistic Fee:-
|
LOCATION |
LOGISTIC FEE/APPLICANT |
|
Delhi |
INR 2040 (inclusive all taxes) |
|
Gurgaon |
INR 2301 (inclusive all taxes) |
|
Jaipur |
INR 2301 (inclusive all taxes) |
|
Kolkata |
INR 2301 (inclusive all taxes) |
|
Mumbai |
INR 2040 (inclusive all taxes) |
|
Ahmedabad |
INR 2301 (inclusive all taxes) |
|
Pune |
INR 2301 (inclusive all taxes) |
|
Goa |
INR 2301 (inclusive all taxes) |
|
Bangalore |
INR 2301 (inclusive all taxes) |
Please note:
Convenience fees of INR 160 payable for all multiple mode of payment (including Cash).
- The visa fee in Rupees is as per current exchange rate. It is subject to change without notice.
- Above Logistic charges can be paid in multiple mode of payment at the time of submission.
- There is no exemption for VFS Service charge.
- The above fee is non-refundable and non transferable.
To obtain more information about visa fee, please click here
Step-by-step guide
Let us walk you through the process
- When applying for a visa to South Africa, determine the purpose of your visit, such as tourism, business, study, or work, to select the appropriate visa category.
- Visit the official website of the South African Department of Home Affairs or consult the nearest South African embassy or consulate for comprehensive information on visa categories, requirements, and application procedures.
- Review the specific eligibility criteria, documentation requirements, and financial obligations for the chosen visa type to ensure a successful visa application for South Africa.
Once you are ready to apply, you can download the visa application form , complete it, print the complete form and bring it with you to the Visa Application Centre (together with the documents required for the Visa category chosen) for submission.
Once you have filled your visa form, you can drop off at the visa application center with no need to book an appointment. Please check opening hours.
After submitting your application, you must pay the visa application fee . Payment can be made at the time of your appointment if you download and print the form to bring to the Visa Application Centre.
You’ll have to submit your completed visa application form at the Visa Application Centre in person.
Find out What happens at the Visa Application Centre.
You will receive an email update once the Visa Application Centre has received your decision. If you cannot readily access email or would like more detailed monitoring information, you may also be able to receive updates via SMS on your phone. Verify if this service is offered at the Visa Application Centre you're visiting.
You can also check the status of your visa application online. Use the Reference Number and your last name found on the invoice/receipt issued by the Visa Application Centre to access this service.
After a decision has been made on your visa application, you may collect your passport from the Visa Application Centre or have it returned to you by courier for an additional charge.
Bring the receipt issued by the Visa Application Centre and a form of government-issued identification when collecting your passport in person. If permitted, you may be able to dispatch a representative to collect your passport; they must present a letter of authorization signed by you, the Visa Application Centre receipt, and their government identification.
Please inquire with the Visa Application Centre at opening time about the available options for document collection.
"Important: You will not receive SMS notifications if DND is enabled on your mobile number."
DOCUMENT CHECKLIST
Please note that visa requirements may vary based on individual circumstances and changes in immigration policies. It is always recommended to consult the official website of the South African High Commission or Consulate in India for the most up-to-date and accurate information. Here is a general checklist of documents you may need for a work visa application:
- Application for DHA-1738 completed in full with BLACK ink and signed by applicant
- A valid passport which expires in no less than 30 days after expiry of the intended date of departure (at least Two unused/blank visa pages)
- One passport size colored photograph (35X45mm)
- Original covering letter signed by the applicant (should clearly mention the purpose of visit, Should clearly mention applicant home address & contact details).
- Proof of sufficient financial means in the form of recently bank certified statements for the last three months.
- A medical report completed on prescribed form BI- 811 (Applicable in Delhi) Medical Report issued by registered medical practioner on letterhead with regard to applicant’s general state of health. Report not older than 6 months at time of submission.
- A radiological report completed on prescribed form BI- 806 (Applicable in Delhi) Radiological Report issued by a registered radiologist on letterhead certifying that the applicant has been examined by him or her with regard to active pulmonary TB signs. Report not older than 6 months at time of submission. Not applicable to under 12 years and pregnant women.
- Marriage certificate or in the case of a foreign spousal relationship, proof of official recognition thereof issued by the authorities of the country concerned if available
- The affidavit where a spousal relationship to a South African citizen or resident is applicable, as well as documentation proving cohabitation and the extent to which the related financial responsibilities are shared by the parties and setting out the particulars of children in the spousal relationship
- Divorce decree, where applicable
- Court order granting full or specific parental responsibilities and rights, where applicable
- Death certificate, in respect of late spouse, where applicable
- Written consent from both parents and court order granting full parental responsibilities and rights parent, where applicable
- Proof of legal adoption where applicable
- Legal separation order, where applicable
- Police clearance certificates in respect of applicants 18 years and older, in respect of all countries where person resided one year or longer since having attained the age of 18 (PCC from Regional Passport Office)
- A written undertaking by the employer to ensure that the passport of his or her employee is valid at all times for the duration of his or her employment
- A certificate by the Department of Labour confirming that –
- despite 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
- The applicant has qualifications or proven skills and experience in line with the job offer
- The salary and benefits of the applicant are not inferior to the average salary and benefits of citizens or employees occupying similar positions in the Republic.
- A contract of employment stipulating the conditions of employment and signed by both the employer and the applicant in line with the Labour standards in the Republic and is made conditional upon the general work visa being approved.
- Proof of qualifications evaluated by SAQA and translated by a sworn translator into one of the official languages of the Republic.
- Full particulars of the employer, including, where applicable, proof of registration of the business with the Commission on Intellectual Property and Companies (CIPC)
- An undertaking by the employer to inform the Director-General upon the employee no longer being in the employ of such employer or when he or she is employed in a different capacity or role
It is essential to note that additional documents may be required based on your specific circumstances and the requirements set by the South African embassy or consulate. It is recommended to contact the embassy or consulate directly or consult with a qualified immigration advisor to ensure that you have all the necessary documents for a successful work visa application.
General Work Visa (GWF):
- Obtain a job offer from a South African employer.
- The employer must provide a contract of employment detailing the position, salary, and duration of employment.
- Ensure that the employer has fulfilled the necessary requirements to employ foreign workers.
- Submit the required documents, including the job contract, to the South African embassy or consulate in India.
- Attend an interview if requested.
- If approved, you will receive a General Work Visa that allows you to work in South Africa.
Critical Skills Work Visa (CSWV):
- Determine if your occupation is listed in the South African Critical Skills List, which outlines the skills and qualifications in demand in the country.
- Obtain a job offer related to your critical skill from a South African employer.
- Ensure that the employer has fulfilled the necessary requirements to employ foreign workers.
- Submit the required documents, including proof of qualification and occupation, to the South African embassy or consulate in India.
- Attend an interview if requested.
- If approved, you will receive a Critical Skills Work Visa that allows you to work in South Africa.
Intra-Company Transfer Work Visa (ICT):
- Be an employee of a multinational company with a branch, subsidiary, or affiliate in South Africa.
- The company must provide a transfer letter and relevant documentation to support the transfer.
- Submit the required documents, including the transfer letter and proof of relationship with the company, to the South African embassy or consulate in India.
- Attend an interview if requested.
- If approved, you will receive an Intra-Company Transfer Work Visa that allows you to work in South Africa.
Corporate Visa:
- Obtain a job offer from a South African corporate entity.
- The company must provide a letter of recommendation and other required documents.
- Submit the required documents, including the job offer and supporting documents, to the South African embassy or consulate in India.
- Attend an interview if requested.
- If approved, you will receive a Corporate Visa that allows you to work in South Africa.
Exchange Visa:
- Participate in an exchange program recognized by South Africa, such as cultural, academic, or scientific exchanges.
- Obtain a sponsorship letter or invitation from the host institution or organization in South Africa.
- Submit the required documents, including the sponsorship letter and supporting documents, to the South African embassy or consulate in India.
- Attend an interview if requested.
- If approved, you will receive an Exchange Visa that allows you to work in South Africa for the duration of the exchange program.
Research Visa:
- Receive an invitation or acceptance letter from a research institution or university in South Africa.
- Submit the required documents, including the invitation or acceptance letter, research proposal, and supporting documents, to the South African embassy or consulate in India.
- Attend an interview if requested.
- If approved, you will receive a Research Visa that allows you to work on your research in South Africa.
Treaty Visa:
- Check if there is a bilateral agreement or treaty between South Africa and your home country that allows for the temporary employment of certain categories of workers.
- Ensure that you meet the specific requirements outlined in the treaty.
- Submit the required documents, including the treaty documentation and supporting documents, to the South African embassy or consulate in India.
- Attend an interview if requested.
- If approved, you will receive a Treaty Visa that allows you to work in South Africa under the terms of the specific treaty.
Business Visa:
- Establish or invest in a business in South Africa.
- Meet the minimum investment requirements and provide supporting documentation.
- Submit the required documents, including the business plan, financial statements, and proof of investment, to the South African embassy or consulate in India.
- Attend an interview if requested.
- If approved, you will receive a Business Visa that allows you to conduct business activities in South Africa. However, note that this visa is not strictly a work visa and has limitations on employment.
Please keep in mind that the specific requirements and processes may vary, and it is always recommended to consult the official website of the South African Department of Home Affairs or seek professional advice to ensure you have the most accurate and up-to-date information for your particular circumstances
VISA APPLICATION FORMS
When applying for a work visa to South Africa, you may be required to submit various forms depending on your specific circumstances and the requirements set by the South African Department of Home Affairs. While the exact forms can change over time, here are some common forms that may be required for a South Africa Work Visa application:
You must submit an application for a visa (Form DHA-1738) with the relevant documentation as listed on this website; Applicants need to attach the checklist to each and every application.
Work Visa Application Form (DHA-1738):
This is the main application form that you need to fill out.
BI-811 :MEDICAL FORM (If Applicable)
Bt-806 : RADIOLOGICAL FORM- (If Applicable)
DHA Form 49: APPEAL FORM- (If Applicable)
DHA Form 48: WAIVER FORM- (If Applicable)
Please note that the availability and specific requirements of these forms may change over time. It is important to consult the official website of the South African Department of Home Affairs or contact the South African High Commission or Consulate in your country to obtain the most up-to-date and accurate information regarding the required forms for a South Africa Work Visa application.
VISA APPLICATION GUIDELINES:
To obtain a work visa to South Africa from India, you need to follow the application process outlined below:
Find a job offer in South Africa:
- Secure a job offer from a South African employer. The employer must obtain a certificate from the Department of Labour to hire foreign workers.
Determine the type of work visa:
- Identify the appropriate work visa category based on your employment situation. The common work visa categories include Critical Skills Visa, General Work Visa, Intra-Company Transfer Work Visa, and Corporate Visa.
Gather the required documents:
- Completed visa application form, Job offer/contract, Proof of qualifications, Valid passport, Medical and radiology reports, Police clearance certificate, Proof of financial means and Additional documents Depending on the specific work visa category, additional documents such as skills assessment certificates, proof of experience, or proof of company registration may be required.
Pay the visa application fee:
- Check the current visa application fee and payment methods accepted by the South African embassy/consulate in India. Ensure you have the necessary funds to cover the fee.
Submit your application:
- Submit the completed visa application form and all the required documents to the South African embassy/consulate in India.
Include original and photocopies of all supporting documents.
- Attend any required interviews or provide additional information if requested.
Track your application:
Use the tracking number or reference provided to track the status of your visa application through the South African embassy/consulate’s website or their designated tracking system.
Collect your visa:
- Once your work visa application is approved, you will be notified to collect your visa from the South African embassy/consulate.
- Bring your passport and any additional documents as instructed for the collection process.
Please note that the specific requirements and processes may vary depending on the work visa category and the South African embassy/consulate. It is recommended to check the official website of the South African Department of Home Affairs or consult the South African embassy/consulate in India for the most up-to-date information and guidelines specific to your situation.