28 Aug Trusted Employer Scheme: Faster Visas in 2026

The Department of Home Affairs (DHA) announced the launch of the second phase of the Trusted Employer Scheme (TES) on the 20^th of July 2026, which has since received a lot of interest from businesses looking to become part of this program.

Acting Deputy Director-General for immigration services at the DHA, Yusuf Simons reiterated that the scheme is designed to support South Africa in its ongoing aim to position itself as a premier investment destination by promoting the entry of essential skills workers required for economic growth.

Businesses have the opportunity to apply until the 4^th of September 2026, with outcomes expected within 30 working days after the closing date.

What is The Trusted Employer Scheme?

First announced by President Cyril Ramaphosa in April 2023 during the South Africa Investments Conference, the TES was introduced as part of a broader overhaul of South Africa’s work visa system. This system was set to provide the government with a more flexible and expeditious pathway for foreign nationals to obtain work visas while also attracting the critical skills required to boost foreign investment.

Corporate employers who qualify and have successfully obtained a TES membership have enjoyed benefits such as receiving priority processing of visa applications and reduced documentary requirements (including South African Qualifications Authority certificates and proof of professional body registration).

So far, the results of Phase I of the TES have been widely regarded as a success, with the majority of participating businesses receiving approvals for visa applications for highly skilled foreign professionals within mere days of submission.

Who Qualifies for this Scheme?

Phase II of the Trusted Employer Scheme introduced three separate qualification pathways for admission to the program, enabling different categories of employers to qualify under the set assessment criteria applicable to each operation.

In order to qualify to join the TES, a business needs to acquire a minimum of 80 points.

1. South African-Based Operations

Pledges/proven investment (30 points)

Employment (25 points)

Economic Sector (25 points)

Skills Development (20 points)

2. Regional or Global Head Office Pathway

Local presence (15 points)

Financial contribution (50 points)

Employment (20 points)

Economic Sector (15 points)

3. Synthetic Financial Centres (SFC)

SARB exchange control authorisation (40 points)

Regulatory Standing (20 points)

Market infrastructure commitment (20 points)

SFC visa facilitation office certification (15 points)

Skills transfer commitment (5 points)

Are you a business owner interested in joining the Trusted Employer Scheme? June Luna Immigration Attorneys can assist in obtaining a timely and positive outcome on your application.

CONTACT US today and let our immigration professionals expertly guide you through the process.