On May 20, 2024, the South African Government published Gazette No. 50675, introducing significant changes to immigration policies. This comprehensive update addresses various aspects of immigration through amendments to the Immigration Act, aiming to streamline processes and enhance regulatory frameworks.
Key Highlights from Gazette No. 50675
Work Visa for Individuals Working Remotely:
- Foreign individuals with a gross income exceeding R1,000,000.00 (one million rand) per annum are exempted from registering to pay South African taxes.
- This is applicable if their visa is issued for less than 6 months within 36 months.
Introduction of Point-Based System for General Work Visa:
- The system takes into account; age, qualifications, language skills, work experience, offer of employment, salary, and any other relevant factor.
Work Permitted Within The Republic by Individual Employed by Foreign Entity:
- The allowances are; teaching, filming and advertising, news reporting, academic research, artistic pursuits, tour leaders and hosts, and religious leaders.
SAQA:
- Expedition processes for the Critical Skills Visa, the Corporate Visa, and the Business Visa.
- These expedited visas would be issued for 12 months.
These Regulations reflect South Africa’s efforts to minimise the length of application processes in its immigration system, making it more efficient and catering to businesses and skilled workers, while also addressing domestic socio-economic challenges. For further details, the full text of the Government Gazette No. 50675 can be accessed through the official South African Government website.
