The General Work Permit enables foreign nationals to work in South Africa in occupations that are not on the Critical Skills List. This permit requires a confirmed job offer and a demonstrated ability to meet 100 points on the points count table.
The 100-point threshold is reached through a combination of points other than through an occupation contained on the critical skills list, and provided all other prescribed requirements are met, the applicant may be issued with a general work visa.
New World Immigration assists both employers and foreign employees through the General Work Permit process, ensuring compliance with all regulatory requirements and maximising the chances of a successful outcome.
Who is this permit for?
The General Work Permit is for foreign nationals who have a confirmed job offer from a South African employer and can demonstrate they meet the 100-point threshold on the points count table.
You have a confirmed written job offer from a South African employer
You can demonstrate the ability to meet 100 points on the points count table
You hold qualifications and experience relevant to the position offered
Your qualifications have been evaluated by SAQA
You have no criminal record and meet health requirements
Common reasons for rejection
The applicant cannot accumulate the required 100 points across qualifications, salary level, work experience, language ability and trusted employer status
The salary offered, qualification (NQF level) or years of experience fall below the thresholds needed to reach 100 points
The offered salary and conditions of employment are not shown to be in line with the prevailing market rate for the role
The applicant's foreign qualifications have not been evaluated by the South African Qualifications Authority
The employment contract does not comply with South African labour law or is not signed by both the employer and the applicant
Where applicable, the applicant's registration with the relevant South African statutory professional body has not been confirmed
Application process
1. Points Assessment
We assess your profile against the 100-point count table to determine eligibility and identify the strongest combination of qualifying factors.
2. SAQA Evaluation
Your foreign qualifications are evaluated by SAQA to confirm their equivalence to South African standards.
3. Document Compilation
We prepare the complete application package including the job offer, SAQA evaluation, qualifications, points evidence, and supporting documents.
4. Application Submission
The application is submitted to the Department of Home Affairs with all required documentation.
5. Processing & Outcome
DHA processes the application. Once approved, the General Work Permit is issued for the duration of the employment contract, up to a maximum of 5 years.
Key considerations
A confirmed job offer is mandatory for the General Work Permit.
The applicant must demonstrate the ability to meet 100 points on the points count table.
The permit is tied to the specific employer and position stated in the application.
Changing employers requires a new General Work Permit application.
The permit can be renewed if the employment relationship continues and conditions are still met.
Processing times can be lengthy, early preparation is essential.
Spouses and dependants can apply for accompanying visas.
Costs
Costs include government fees, SAQA evaluation, and professional service fees.
Government Application Fee: ± ZAR 3,070 (varies by submission office)
Police Clearance Certificates: ZAR 195 - 600 per country
Medical Report: ZAR 800 - 1,500
Professional Body Registration: ± ZAR 5,000+
Professional Service Fees: Contact for quote
Government fees are subject to change and may vary by submission office.
Processing timeframes
The General Work Permit process involves multiple stages, each with its own timeline.
SAQA Evaluation: 12 - 18 weeks
DHA Processing: 8 - 16 weeks
Total (Straightforward): 4 - 10 months
Job offer requirements
A confirmed job offer is mandatory for the General Work Permit. The offer must detail the position, salary, duties, and contract duration.
The employer plays an active role in the application process and must provide supporting documentation for the application.
New World Immigration works closely with employers to ensure the employment documentation meets Department of Home Affairs requirements.
How to apply — step by step
1. Assess Your Points Score
Evaluate your profile against the 100-point count table to confirm eligibility and identify the strongest combination of qualifying factors.
2. Obtain a SAQA Evaluation
Submit your foreign qualifications to the South African Qualifications Authority (SAQA) for evaluation, this can take 12–18 weeks.
3. Secure a Written Job Offer
Obtain a formal written offer of employment from a registered South African employer for the specific position.
4. Compile Your Documents
Prepare your complete application pack: job offer, SAQA evaluation, qualifications, CV, points evidence, police clearances, and medical report.
5. Submit to DHA or Mission Abroad
Lodge the application with the Department of Home Affairs (if in SA) or the nearest South African embassy or consulate abroad.
6. Attend Biometrics
Attend any required biometrics appointment or interview at the submission office.
7. Await Processing
Once approved, the General Work Permit is issued for the duration of the employment contract, up to a maximum of 5 years.
Quick tips
The 100-point threshold must be reached through factors other than occupations on the Critical Skills List.
Since October 2024 the Department of Employment and Labour certificate is no longer required; an offer from a Trusted Employer Scheme member instead adds 30 points toward your 100.
The permit is employer-specific, if you change jobs, you must apply for a new permit before starting with the new employer.
Start your SAQA evaluation early; it adds 12–18 weeks to your overall timeline.
Keep the original job offer letter safe, DHA may request it during processing or at renewal.
Processing times at DHA can be unpredictable; begin preparations well before your intended start date.
Spouses and dependent children can apply for accompanying visas at the same time.
Documents needed
Valid passport (minimum 30 days validity beyond intended visa period)
Completed BI-1738 application form
Written offer of employment from a South African employer
SAQA evaluation certificate for your foreign qualifications
Certified copies of all academic qualifications and transcripts
Detailed CV / résumé
Evidence supporting your 100-point score on the points count table
Police clearance certificate(s) from every country lived in for 12+ months since age 18
Two recent passport-sized photographs
Proof of payment of the government application fee
Frequently asked questions
What is the 100-point count table?
Since October 2024 the points table awards points for your qualification (NQF level), gross annual salary, years of work experience, language proficiency, and whether your employer is a member of the Trusted Employer Scheme. You must reach 100 points to qualify. Age and South African work experience are no longer counted, and the Department of Employment and Labour certificate is no longer required.
Can I change employers on a General Work Permit?
No. The General Work Permit is tied to the specific employer and position. Changing employers requires a new application.
How long is the permit valid?
The permit is issued for the duration of the employment contract, up to a maximum of 5 years. It can be renewed.
Can my family join me?
Yes. Your spouse and dependent children can apply for accompanying visas with appropriate rights.
Get expert help
If you have a job offer in South Africa and need a General Work Permit, our team can guide you through every step of the process.
Contact New World Immigration for a professional assessment and ensure your application is prepared to the highest standard.