The South Africa Critical Skills Work Visa is aimed at skilled professionals whose occupation is on the critical shortage occupation list. It allows workers holding this visa to visit South Africa and search for a job. Once the applicant has found a job, he or she can then convert it to a work permit. Key features of the South Africa Critical Skills Work Visa are:

• An applicant can enter South Africa without a job offer
• Visa is based on skills and qualification as per the Critical Skills list defined by the South Africa Department of Home Affairs
• Visa is initially granted for 12 months and is extendable as per the Authority
• Applicant needs to find a job within the Visa grant period
• Visa is then extended to 5 years to a Critical Skills Work Permit
• No need to go through the onerous labor certification process which is required for a General Work Visa application

• Completed permanent residency application form
• Receipt of payment of applicable application fee.
• Copy of birth certificate.
• Complete biometrics.
• Yellow fever vaccination certificate where applicable.
• Provide police clearance certificates
• Submit medical reports
• Submit marriage certificate
• Include birth certificates of dependent children
• Proof that your skills belong to the critical skills category
• Certificate of registration with the professional body.
• Proof of post-qualification experience of at least five years.
• Testimonials from previous employers
• Letter of motivation proving that the critical skills of the applicant will benefit South Africa

The documentation required for the South Africa Critical Skills Work Visa includes:

• Current passport and travel history
• Educational credentials
• Professional credentials
• Recent medical report
• Police clearance certificate
• Other supporting documents