24 Jul Guide to South Africa’s New Points-Based Work Visa
The Department of Home Affairs (DHA) aims to improve the visa application process for General Work and Critical Skills applicants. Hence, it introduced South Africa’s New Points-Based Work Visa system in their immigration policy in October 2024. This points-based system helps foreign workers to assess their eligibility for jobs within the country and creates labour opportunities without influencing the employment chances for South Africans.
What is the Points-Based Work Visa?
The Points-Based Work Visa is a permit that allows foreign individuals to get employment in South Africa based on the total points they accumulate. Therefore, applicants have to earn required points (100) to qualify for the general work visa. But these points depend on several standards such as work experience, educational qualifications, language fluency, and income level. This system offers an organised and transparent approach that helps to evaluate skilled individuals’ applications, rather than focusing on subjective assessments.
Eligibility Requirements and Points System
Candidates must meet the criteria and accumulate at least 100 points to qualify for a General Work Visa.
- Educational Qualifications: Applicants score points based on their strong academic background, such as the National Qualification Framework levels. For example, individuals who possess a master’s degree (NQF 9) or a Doctorate (NQF 10) can earn up to 50 points, while a bachelor’s degree (NQF 7) or an honours degree (NQF 8) obtain 30 points.
- Work Experience: Applicants get points depending on their solid work experience in a relevant field. For example, five to ten years of experience is 20 points and 30 points for candidates with ten years. Additionally, if you are employed by an employer recognised under the South African Trusted Employer Scheme, you will receive another 30 points.
- Language Skills: Applicants must be proficient in one of South Africa’s Official languages or English to be given ten points.
- Salary Level: The candidate’s income influences the scoring process and shows their economic contribution and benefit. For example, individuals who are earning a gross annual salary above R976,194 gross per annum will obtain 50 points, and those with salaries between R650,976 and R976,194 receive 20 points.
Advantages of SA’s New Points-Based Work Visa
- Efficient and transparent visa application process for the candidates.
- The system facilitates skilled professionals for migration.
- Quick application process and streamlined paperwork.
How Can June Luna Immigration Attorneys (JLIA) Assist?
June Luna Immigration Attorneys is an experienced team in South African Immigration. When it comes to applying for a Points-Based Work Visa, we can provide you with guidance on eligibility criteria and points calculation to check if you meet the 100-point threshold. Contact us for more information and advice on the Points-Based Work Visa.