South Africa is undergoing one of its most significant immigration overhauls in recent years — and if you are looking to move, work or invest here, now is a crucial moment to act.
What’s new in South African Immigration
- The Department of Home Affairs (DHA) has introduced a points-based system for work visas — affecting both the Critical Skills Work Visa and the General Work Visa categories. This reform is part of a broader effort to modernise immigration, attract skilled professionals, and strengthen South Africa’s global competitiveness.
- Under this new system, applicants are scored on various factors such as qualifications, work experience, age, language proficiency, and job offers. Importantly, if an applicant qualifies under South Africa’s current Critical Skills List, they will automatically receive 100 points, effectively meeting the threshold for a successful application.
- In addition, South Africa has launched the much-anticipated Remote Work Visitor Visa, which allows foreign nationals employed abroad to live in South Africa while working remotely — without taking up local employment. This is particularly appealing for professionals seeking flexibility and a high quality of life in a country known for its scenic beauty and affordability.
- The DHA has also made progress in clearing visa and permit backlogs and is pursuing a more transparent, digitalised system for future applications.
Why these changes matter for you
If you are a skilled professional: The points-based system makes your profile more predictable. You know what counts (qualifications, experience, job offer, language skills) so you can plan and submit strategically.
If you are a remote worker: The Remote Work Visa lets you benefit from South Africa’s lifestyle while maintaining your foreign employment — a compelling offering in today’s remote-first world.
If you are an investor or employer: These reforms open doors to hiring international expertise under clearer regulations, helping you scale and innovate.
If you are planning your immigration journey: With the policy landscape shifting, applying early and with expert support now gives you a head-start before further changes take hold.
Important Notes & Considerations
Even though these policies are in place, some processing delays remain. Staying informed and compliant is essential.
The new criteria mean higher standards in certain categories, for example minimum income thresholds for remote work visas — you must meet the eligibility before making commitments.
This article is for information only — individual eligibility and circumstances vary. Always seek professional advice before applying.
Don’t wait until the opportunity fades – secure your place in South Africa’s new immigration era. Contact Breytenbachs Immigration Consultants today for expert guidance and tailored advice.
AUTHOR
This article was drafted by Adri van Niekerk our expert in South African Immigration law. It has been reviewed and authorised by Hannes Breytenbach, Founder of BIC.
DISCLAIMER
This article is intended for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Immigration laws are subject to change and eligibility depends on individual circumstances. We recommend seeking professional legal advice tailored to your specific case.
