The South African Department of Trade, Industry and Competition (DTIC) has launched a new online business visa platform that simplifies the application process. Find out how the new system makes it easier to obtain a visa, what the requirements and application process are, who can get a South African business visa, and how long it takes to process

Order an insurance policy for safe travel, stay or work abroad

BUY

The Department of Trade, Industry and Competition (DTIC) of South Africa has launched a new online platform, the Business Visa Recommendation System, which allows investors to receive recommendations from the DTIC for applying for a business visa or for obtaining a permanent residence permit. Read in this article what this new platform is, what are the features of the South African business visa and how citizens of Kenya, Botswana, Mauritius and other countries of the world can obtain a South African business visa.

Planning a trip abroad? Choose a reliable health insurance policy on the Visit World portal.

Why is the launch of the DTIC online platform important for business people in South Africa?

The new DTIC platform will provide recommendations after assessing the viability of the applicant’s business, which is a prerequisite for applying for a business visa or extending the document. This system allows expats to apply online, upload the necessary documents, track the status of their applications in real time and receive notifications about their progress, which greatly simplifies the entire process.

Currently, the DTIC recommendation takes between one and six weeks, but with the new online system, faster processing times are expected, although the exact processing time has not yet been announced.

What is a South African Business Visa?

A South African Business Visa is a type of temporary visa that allows foreign nationals to enter South Africa for business purposes. It is intended for individuals who wish to establish or invest in a business, attend meetings, conferences or engage in trade in South Africa.

This visa falls under the South African visa category and is classified as a temporary residence visa. It grants the holder permission to stay in the country for a limited period while conducting business activities.

Who can apply for a South African Business Visa?

A South African Business Visa is usually issued to the following categories of foreigners:

- Investors

Foreign investors who intend to establish or invest in a South African business.

- Entrepreneurs

Individuals who want to start a new business or manage an existing business in South Africa.

- Business professionals

Executives, managers or representatives of companies who need to meet with clients, suppliers or partners in South Africa.

- Foreign business owners

People who have business interests or plan to own and manage a business in South Africa.

If you fall into any of these categories, you can apply for a business visa to enter the country for professional purposes.

Requirements for applicants for a business visa in South Africa

To be eligible for a business visa in South Africa, applicants must provide the following documents:

1. Valid passport

Your passport must be valid for at least 30 days after the date of your intended departure from South Africa.

2. Proof of financial capacity

You must demonstrate that you have sufficient funds to support yourself while in South Africa. This may include bank statements, letters from sponsors or proof of business profits.

3. Business plan or investment proposal

If you are investing in or starting a business, you will need to have a clear business plan that details your business, financing and objectives. This plan should be in line with South Africa’s economic policies and demonstrate how your business will contribute to job creation or the economy.

4. Proof of qualifications

If your business is specialised, you may need to provide proof of relevant qualifications or experience.

5. Clean criminal record certificate

A certificate from your country’s police department proving that you have no criminal record.

6. Health certificate

Proof of your health (this may require a medical examination or vaccination records).

7. Application Form

A completed visa application form (DHA-84 form), which can be obtained from South African consulates and embassies.

South Africa Business Visa Application Procedure

The South Africa Business Visa Application Process consists of several steps:

Stage 1 – Gather Documents

Collect all the required documents listed above and ensure that you meet all the requirements.

Stage 2 – Complete Application

Complete the visa application form (DHA-84) and prepare a cover letter explaining the reasons for your visit to South Africa for business purposes.

Stage 3 – Apply

Apply for your visa at the nearest South African embassy or consulate in your country or via the new DTIC portal.

Step 4 – Pay the visa fee

You will need to pay a visa processing fee, and the fee may vary depending on the country you are applying from.

Step 5 – Wait for processing

It can take between 4 and 8 weeks to process your visa, although it may take longer in certain circumstances. It is advisable to apply well in advance of your intended travel date.

Step 6 – Visa approval

Once your application is approved, you will be issued with a visa that will allow you to enter South Africa.

How long is a South African business visa valid for?

A South African business visa is usually granted for a period of up to 3 years, depending on the specifics of your business venture. The visa may be issued for a shorter period (for example, one year or six months) if the applicant’s business activities are limited to that period.

How to extend a South African business visa?

In most cases, a South African business visa can be extended for an additional period, provided that the applicant continues to meet the necessary requirements. To extend your business visa, you need to:

- Apply for an extension: Before the expiry of your current visa, apply for an extension with the South African Department of Home Affairs.

- Provide supporting documents: Similar to the original application, you will need to provide documents such as financial statements, business progress reports and any other relevant materials.

- Pay the extension fee: A fee will be charged to process your extension request.

It is important to apply for an extension before your current visa expires to avoid overstaying.

Cost of a South African Business Visa

The cost of applying for a South African business visa depends on the applicant’s nationality and the type of visa. Currently, visa fees range from ZAR 1,500 to ZAR 3,000 (US$85-170) for a single entry visa.

Is it permissible to move with family to South Africa on a business visa?

You can move with family to South Africa on a business visa. When you apply for a business visa, you can list your spouse, partners and dependent children. Partners, spouses and pre-school children will need to apply for a companion visa.

A South African business visa is a valuable permit for foreign nationals who intend to continue their business in the country. Whether you are planning to invest, attend business meetings or start a company, understanding the application process, required documents and visa extension procedures is crucial for a smooth entry.

Book a consultation with a migration lawyer to learn the current rules of the procedure for moving and working in South Africa in 2025.

Recall! South Africa is a country with the second-largest economy in Africa and is an attractive employment center in the region. We have already told you about the features of the labor market in the republic and what are the requirements for obtaining a work visa.