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South Africa Work Permit Visa
A general work permit (General Work Visa) for foreigners who have been offered a position that a South African citizen cannot fill.
Employer SponsoredLabour Market Test3-Year Validity
Overview
The General Work Visa (GWV) is issued to foreign nationals who have received a job offer for a position that cannot be filled by a South African national or permanent resident. The employer must demonstrate this through a formal process involving the Department of Employment and Labour. The visa is typically valid for up to 3 years and is tied to the employing company.
✓Employer must prove no South African can fill the role
✓Certificate from Department of Employment and Labour required
✓Valid for up to 3 years (renewable)
✓Tied to specific employer – must notify DHA if changing jobs
✓Spouse and dependants may apply for accompanying visas
✓South African NQF equivalence check for foreign qualifications
Eligibility Requirements
- ✓Confirmed job offer from a South African employer
- ✓Certificate from the Dept of Employment and Labour confirming no SA citizen/PR can fill the role
- ✓Evaluation of qualifications by SAQA
- ✓Registration with relevant SA professional body (if applicable)
- ✓Police clearance from home country (and SA if previously resident)
- ✓Medical certificate of fitness
Visa Type
🪪 General Work Visa (Section 19(2) of the Immigration Act, South Africa)
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