Critical Skills Work Visa
Who it's for: For people whose occupation is on the Critical Skills List.
Information, not immigration advice. This page summarises what the government publishes. Confirm every figure on the official page before you pay or apply.
Last checked 3 Nov 2026
Requirements at a glance
- Job offer needed: Yes
- Main fee: ZAR 1,520
- Can lead to permanent residence: Possible
- Decision time: 4 weeks
- Occupation list: Official occupation list
Figures and costs
| Item | Amount | In your currency | Source |
|---|---|---|---|
| Main fee | ZAR 1,520 | — | dha.gov.zaOfficial · 3 Nov 2026 |
Figures marked check could not be confirmed on a live official page, or come from a secondary source.
What the official pages say
5 points recorded from official pages. Open a point to see the official wording.
Job offer neededYesOfficial wording
“A critical skills work visa is not a work-seekers visa. All applications must be accompanied by an offer of employment from employers who are verifiable and are in good standing with the Department of Employment and Labour.”
Main feeZAR 1,520Official wording
“Work visa (including applications for renewal) 19 R1 520, 00”
Can lead to permanent residencePossibleOfficial wording
“has been the holder of a work visa for five years and has proven to the satisfaction of the Director-General that he or she has received an offer for permanent employment.”
Decision time4 weeksOfficial wording
“Critical Skills Visa - Section 19(4) incl. TES 4 weeks”
Occupation listOfficial occupation list ↗Official wording
“The occupation/critical skill must be on the latest Critical Skills List.”
We have not yet recorded: Study place needed; Minimum education; Work experience; Language; Age limit; Money to show; Salary threshold; Family can join. That does not mean there is no rule — confirm on the official page. Official page.
All visa types in South Africa
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South Africa visa typesBefore you pay anyone
- Nobody can guarantee a visa. Only the government of the country you apply to decides.
- UK employers must not charge you for a Certificate of Sponsorship.
- German missions say you don't need an agent to get a visa appointment.
- Check any adviser or recruitment agent on an official register before you pay.