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Temporary Residency as a means of Immigrating to South Africa
When making the decision for immigration to South Africa the most important decision to initially make is what type of visa or permit you will be applying for.
Temporary Residency is the normal route for immigration into South Africa and the period a temporary residency permit is issued for can range from 6 months to 5 years. The period of the temporary residency depends upon each type of visa / permit, issued under the temporary category, as well as Home Affairs decision on how long to issue it for.
Types of Temporary Residency in South Africa
Temporary residency can be applied for under the following visa / permit types:
Work Visa / Permit – this area has 4 sub-sections to it:
- General work permit - for employees who do not fit under the below 3 categories.
- Intra-Company Transfer - for employees who are being moved from their existing employer outside of South Africa to a branch or closely associated company within South Africa.
- Quota work Permit - South Africa periodically issues a skills shortage list (quota listing) which outlines skills shortage areas in South Africa. Applicants whose skills and experience match the criteria on this list may apply under this category.
- Exceptional skills – this is judged on a case by case basis and the merits of an Individuals educational and work experience, plus the rarity of the occupation are taken into account.
- Individuals under a corporate permit - the employer needs to hold a corporate permit for individuals to make an application under this category. More information on corporate permits here.
It should be noted that some confusion often surrounds whether life partners or spouses of South African citizens or Permanent residency holders need a work permit. Whilst permission must be given by the Department of Home Affairs, this takes the form of an endorsement, not a work permit. This is still a complex area of immigration but it bypasses many of the requirements needed for a work permit.
See here for more details
Life Partner/ Spouses Permit / Visa - For foreign partner and spouses
Business Visa / Permit - For applicants who wish to commence and operate thier own business.
Retired Visa / Permit - For applicants who wish to immigrate to South Africa and retire.
Study Permits - For both students wishing to continue their studies in South Africa and children who are accompanying adults and are of an age whereby they can still study.
Relative’s permits - Applications are accepted from migrants who have second kin relationships with South African citizens or permanent residency holders.
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