Intra-Company Transfer Visa — South Africa

The Intra-Company Transfer (ICT) Visa is issued under Section 19(3) of the Immigration Act. It enables employees of multinational companies to transfer to a South African branch, subsidiary, or affiliate.

Who Is Eligible?

You must have been employed by the foreign entity for at least six months in a managerial, executive, or specialised knowledge role. The SA entity must be a branch, subsidiary, or affiliate of the foreign company.

Documents Needed

• Completed DHA-1738 application form
• Valid passport with sufficient validity
• Employment confirmation from the foreign company (minimum 6 months tenure)
• Acceptance letter from the South African entity
• Proof of corporate relationship (shareholding, registration documents)
• SAQA evaluation certificate
• Medical (DHA-1740) and radiological (DHA-1741) reports
• Police clearance certificates

Processing Times

Approximately 8-12 weeks from submission. The ICT visa does not require a Department of Labour recommendation, which can make the overall process faster than a General Work Visa.

Duration and Renewal

The ICT visa is typically issued for up to 4 years and may be renewed. It is tied to the specific employer and position.

Common Pitfalls

1. Insufficient proof of corporate relationship — provide company registration documents showing the link
2. Less than 6 months employment — you must meet the minimum tenure requirement
3. Role mismatch — the position must be managerial, executive, or require specialised knowledge

This guide is for informational purposes. Always consult a registered immigration practitioner for advice specific to your situation.