1st Contact South African Visas

Business Visas

Business route to South Africa

A business permit is in most cases granted for a period of 24 months and can be renewed thereafter. This residence permit suits the requirements of entrepreneurs (self-employed people) as well as investors.

If you intend to invest into an existing business or set up a new business you’ll have to invest:

1. At least 2.5 million ZAR in cash, or
2. At least 2.5 million ZAR as a capital contribution, or
3. At least 2.5 million ZAR in cash and a capital contribution of R 500.000, into the book value of the business in question within a period of 24 months.

Please note: The investment must originate from abroad.

An applicant for a business permit shall, besides other documents, submit:

• A business plan, outlining the feasibility of the business
• Proof or an undertaking that at least 5 South Africans or permanent residents will be permanently employed in the business
• An undertaking to register with the South African Revenue Service (SARS)

Further useful information:

• The capitalisation requirement may be reduced or waived if the proposed business is in one of the following sectors: information and communication technologies, clothing- and textile industry, chemical and biotechnological industry, agro processing industry, metal and mineral processing industry, automotive and transport industry, tourism and crafts industry.
• The permit will be granted for a period of 24 months and can be extended for a further 24 months if sufficient proof has been given that the applicant has fulfilled the above mentioned requirements.
• In this category the business plan is of special importance, so please keep this in mind and ensure it is done in a professional manner. We will gladly assist you with that.
• Obtaining the business permit is only part of the process. Please be aware that the permit will lapse if you fail to prove within 2 years (of the issuance of the permit) and 3 years thereafter that the prescribed financial contribution (to be part of the intended book value) is still invested as contemplated in the Act. It is therefore essential that good record keeping and accountancy practices are followed.
• Most business permit applicants also qualify to submit an application for permanent residence. Your client manager will be able to explain in detail to you whether you qualify or not.

Take the free online assessment now to determine your eligibility.