Business Visa — South Africa
The Business Visa allows foreign nationals to establish or invest in a business in South Africa. It is governed by Section 15 of the Immigration Act.
Investment Threshold
Applicants must invest a prescribed minimum amount (currently R5 million) in a South African business. The DTIC may endorse applications with lower investment amounts if the business will create jobs or transfer skills.
Documents Needed
- Completed DHA-1738 application form
- Valid passport with sufficient validity
- Business plan with feasibility study
- DTIC endorsement letter
- CIPC registration of the South African company
- Proof of capital investment or access to funds
- Tax clearance certificate
- Medical (DHA-1740) and radiological (DHA-1741) reports
- Police clearance certificates
Processing Times
Approximately 8-12 weeks for the DHA application. Obtaining the DTIC endorsement may take an additional 4-8 weeks.
BEE and Local Employment
The business must comply with Broad-Based Black Economic Empowerment (BEE) requirements and demonstrate that it will employ South African citizens or permanent residents.
Common Pitfalls
- Insufficient capital proof — bank statements and proof of funds must clearly show the investment amount
- Weak business plan — the DTIC requires a detailed, viable plan with job creation projections
- BEE non-compliance — ensure your business structure meets BEE requirements from the outset
This guide is for informational purposes. Always consult a registered immigration practitioner for advice specific to your situation.