General Work Visa
The Immigration Act contains a work visa scheme, consisting of 3 individual work visa categories.
A South African General Work Visa allows a foreign national to take up employment with a specific South African employer. Since October 2024, applications can be assessed either under a Points-Based System (PBS) introduced by the Department of Home Affairs, or under the standard requirement for a Department of Employment and Labour recommendation.
Points-Based System — October 2024 Update
With the publication of 9 October 2024 of the Third Amendment of the Immigration Regulations, 2014 coinciding with the simultaneous publication of the Ministerial Waiver for general work visas, a Point-Based System (PBS) has been introduced that allows for applicants that meet a minimum point-based score of 100 points to qualify for a general work visa without having to obtain a recommendation from the Department of Employment and Labour (DEL).
How Points Are Awarded
- Qualifications: NQF Level 7–8: 30 points; NQF Level 9–10: 50 points
- Annual Gross Remuneration: R976,194 or more: 50 points; R650,796–R976,194: 20 points
- Work Experience: 5–10 years verifiable experience: 20 points; 10+ years: 30 points
- Trusted Employer Scheme: Employment by a TES-registered employer: 20 points
- Language Proficiency: Proficiency in at least one official language: 10 points
A supporting contract or offer of employment remains mandatory for all General Work Visa applications.
What If You Don’t Reach 100 Points?
For applicants who do not meet the minimum 100-point threshold, the DEL recommendation requirement remains. The prospective employer must apply to the DEL for certification confirming that no suitably qualified South African candidate exists for the position and that the foreign applicant possesses the necessary skills and qualifications.
Frequently Asked Questions
How many points do I need for a General Work Visa?
A minimum of 100 points is required under the Points-Based System. Points are awarded across five criteria: qualifications, annual gross salary, years of verifiable work experience, language proficiency in an official South African language, and whether your prospective employer is registered under the Trusted Employer Scheme.
What if I don’t reach 100 points?
Applicants who do not meet the 100-point threshold are not automatically disqualified. The DEL recommendation requirement remains in place — the prospective employer must apply to the DEL for certification confirming that no suitably qualified South African candidate exists and that the foreign applicant possesses the necessary skills and qualifications.
Is a job offer still required under the Points-Based System?
Yes, a supporting contract or offer of employment from a South African employer remains mandatory for all General Work Visa applications, regardless of PBS score. The PBS determines whether a DEL recommendation is required, it does not replace the need for a confirmed employment offer.
Does the Points-Based System apply to all work visas?
No, the PBS applies to General Work Visas.
Can Eisenberg & Associates assess my points eligibility?
Yes. Our team will conduct a preliminary eligibility assessment, identify the strongest category for your application and if engaged to assist advise on all required documentation whilst managing the compliance of your application. With over three decades of exclusive specialisation in South African immigration law, we ensure your application is compliant and submission-ready before it reaches the DHA. Contact us to schedule a consultation.
Why Choose Eisenberg & Associates?
Navigating the Points-Based System, understanding the DEL recommendation threshold, and ensuring full compliance with the October 2024 amendments requires specialist expertise. Eisenberg & Associates has practised exclusively in South African immigration and citizenship law since 1997, guiding clients through every major regulatory shift, including the 2024 introduction of the PBS.
