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South Africa recently introduced a points-based system for issuing General Work and Critical Skills visas, a shift that aims to significantly impact both international applicants and local employers. This new system aims to streamline applications, aligning them with the country’s economic priorities by focusing on essential skills and qualifications.
In this article, we dive into what this new approach means for skilled professionals looking to work in South Africa, the essential elements of the points-based system, and the insights you need to maximise your application’s success.
Why the shift for work permit applications for South Africa?
This new system introduces a data-driven, criteria-focused approach to visa eligibility, ensuring applicants bring skills that South Africa’s economy truly needs. By scoring applicants based on factors such as critical skill relevance, educational background, and work experience, the system helps South Africa attract highly qualified individuals who can contribute meaningfully to its economic landscape.
South Africa joins other countries, like Canada and Australia, that have successfully employed points-based immigration systems to fill critical labour gaps with skilled foreign talent. Here’s a closer look at the eligibility factors and scoring that underpin this exciting new approach.
Key insights on the points system
Here’s a breakdown of the points assigned under various criteria:
Applicants must strategically combine these elements to reach the 100-point threshold.
General Work Visa: Expanding the talent pool
The General Work Visa provides access for applicants who may not meet the criteria of the Critical Skills list but whose qualifications still offer value to South Africa’s economy. It’s an option for those with non-critical yet beneficial skills.
Key considerations for GWV applicants:
- Scoring Threshold: Must reach 100 points across any combination of criteria.
- Visa Duration: A 12-month visa is available if the applicant has proof of application for a South African Qualifications Authority (SAQA) evaluation, and a 5-year visa can be granted upon submission of a valid SAQA certificate.
Critical Skills Visa: Prioritising high-demand expertise
The Critical Skills Visa aims to draw individuals with expertise in areas essential to South Africa’s economic growth. Applicants in industries deemed critical can expect a smoother process with this visa pathway.
Key considerations for CSV applicants:
- Scoring Threshold: Also requires a minimum of 100 points, typically achieved through a combination of occupation, qualifications, and work experience as per the Critical Skills List.
- Visa Duration: A 12-month visa is issued if proof of application for SAQA and professional body registration is submitted, and a 5-year visa upon verified registration with a recognised professional body and SAQA certification.
Tips for maximising your score
While meeting the minimum point threshold is essential, applicants can take strategic steps to enhance their applications and maximise their scores. Here are a few actionable insights to help you optimise your points-based application:
- Emphasise Critical Skills: An occupation on the Critical Skills List yields 100 points right away provided you meet the minimum criteria as outlined on the Critical Skills list. For those with experience in high-demand fields, this category can be a straightforward path to meeting requirements.
- Boost Your Qualification Points: Higher education credentials matter. If you have an NQF Level 9-10 qualification, that’s an additional 50 points. It's important to verify your qualifications with SAQA for the best results.
- Leverage Job Offers: An offer of employment from a South African company is mandatory and can significantly boost your score if it meets salary thresholds. Higher-paying roles not only meet the requirements but add additional points, which could be the tipping point for an application’s success.
- Showcase Work Experience: Points are awarded for work experience, with 10+ years earning the maximum. Be sure to provide clear, verifiable documentation of your professional history.
- Highlight Language Proficiency: Although language skills are not a core requirement, demonstrating proficiency in one of South Africa's official languages, particularly English, helps contribute to your score. It’s recommended to include documentation or assessments where applicable.
Is the new points-based system right for you?
South Africa’s points-based system reflects a significant shift in visa processing, allowing skilled professionals a transparent path to working in the country. For those with high-demand skills or extensive experience, this system provides an opportunity to contribute to South Africa’s workforce while enjoying the benefits of living and working in a diverse and dynamic country.
If you believe you qualify under either the General Work or Critical Skills category, now is the time to begin the application process which starts with a free consultation with one of our immigration consultants.
