28 Aug SA’s New Points-Based Work Visa: Do You Qualify?

As of 9 October 2024, the South African government has announced the implementation of a new points-based system for issuing General Work Visas.

This new system was followed by a full waiver of the previously mandatory labour certificate, removing the biggest bottleneck for General Work Visa applicants. These new eligibility criteria aim to simplify the process for both employers and prospective employees while attracting talented foreign professionals to South Africa.

This new points-based system provides prospective professionals with a more transparent and structured way to assess their eligibility to work in South Africa. Based on a scoreboard, applicants can acquire points by fulfilling certain criteria.

In order to qualify for a General Work Visa, applicants will need to acquire 100 points.

How Does the New Point System Work?

General Work Visa

Applicants who wish to apply for a General Work Visa need to obtain a total of 100 points, which are awarded based on the applicant’s work experience, qualifications, salary level, employer status, and language proficiency.

Each category is allocated a set number of points, from which the applicant can establish whether they qualify for a General Working Visa.

See criteria below:

Occupation: Occupation on the Critical Skills List (100 points)

Qualifications: NQF levels 7 and 8 (30 points); NQF levels 9 and 10 (50 points)

Offer of Employment (mandatory): R650,796–R976,194 gross per annum (20 points); R976,194 gross per annum or more (50 points)

Work Experience: 5–10 years (20 points); 10+ years (30 points)

Employment Status: Offer from Trusted Employer (30 points)

Language Skills: Proficient in at least one official language (10 points)

Example: An applicant who has obtained their Masters degree (50 points), earns R700,00 gross per annum (20 points), and has an offer from a Trusted Employer Scheme Company (30 points) should be able to qualify for a General Work Visa.

Not all employers are part of the Trusted Employer Scheme – and if they are, proof will need to be provided with the application in order to receive those points.

At June Luna Immigration Attorneys, our team of experienced professionals can assist applicants by assessing their points and determining the best course of action to make their goals a reality.

CONTACT US today to book a consultation with one of our professional attorneys.