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South AfricaWork permitsLast checked October 16, 2026

General Work Visa (section 19(2), Immigration Act 13 of 2002)

An employer-based work visa for people with a job offer in South Africa. Since October 2024 applicants must score 100 points under a points-based system using salary, qualifications, experience, Trusted Employer status and language. An offer of employment is mandatory.

See requirements ↓
1 entry rule for South Africa based on recent travel

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Life in South Africa

Money

3

Currency

South African Rand

ZAR

South African Rand

Cost of living

43

Price level · US = 100

World Bank price levels, 2025

Tax

18–45%

Income tax (national)

VAT 15% · social security 1%

45% applies to taxable income above R1,878,600 (2027 tax year); rebates create an effective tax-free threshold.

Official rates, 2026/27 · headline only

Living

1

Happiness

5.0

#99 of 145 countries

World Happiness Report 2025

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Who it’s for

Foreign nationals with a South African job offer whose occupation is not on the Critical Skills List, or who otherwise reach 100 points.

Eligibility

  • 100 points under the points-based system

    You need to reach 100 points under the points-based system and meet all other prescribed requirements.

    100 points

    Points needed

    • Scored under the Minister's points-based system (Oct 2024)
    • Police clearance and medical report are also required
    Official wording

    Applications are scored under the Minister's points-based system (Oct 2024). The applicant must reach 100 points and also meet all other prescribed requirements such as police clearance and medical report.

  • Offer of employment is mandatory

    You need an offer of employment, and the salary offered can add points.

    Salary points (gross per year)

    Above R976,194
    50 points
    R650,976 to R976,194
    20 points
    • The points notice lists an offer of employment as mandatory
    Official wording

    The points notice lists an offer of employment as mandatory. Salary points: 50 for above R976,194 gross a year; 20 for between R650,976 and R976,194 gross a year.

  • Qualification points

    Your qualification level earns points, and foreign qualifications must be evaluated by SAQA.

    Qualification points

    NQF levels 9-10master's/doctorate level
    50 points
    NQF levels 7-8
    30 points
    Official wording

    50 points for NQF levels 9-10 (master's/doctorate level); 30 points for NQF levels 7-8. Foreign qualifications must be evaluated by SAQA.

A sneak peek at what's inside

  • Next requirementWork experience points
  • Document checklistVisa application form DHA-1738, signed
  • FeesVisa application fee (South African Embassy Washington DC)

The full requirements are for members

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  • 6 more requirements
  • 13 documents
  • 1 fee
  • 8 steps
  • Processing times and conditions
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