President Ramaphosa Welcomes New Visa Reforms

President Cyril Ramaphosa has praised the recently gazetted reforms to South Africa’s visa regime, calling them a significant advancement in attracting international skills and investment, boosting tourism, and creating jobs. These changes, announced on Wednesday, mark a crucial milestone in the country’s broader strategy aimed at stimulating economic recovery and growth.

Minister of Home Affairs Dr. Leon Schreiber introduced these reforms as part of Operation Vulindlela, a collaborative initiative between The Presidency and National Treasury designed to accelerate structural reforms that support economic development.

Among the key changes is the introduction of a Remote Work Visa, which allows highly paid individuals employed abroad to live in South Africa without competing with local workers. This initiative aims to encourage foreign currency spending, generate Value-Added Tax for the South African economy, and promote the purchase of local goods and services, ultimately contributing to job creation.

Additionally, a new Points-Based System for skilled work visas will offer more flexible pathways for highly skilled applicants while addressing issues of corruption and inefficiency. This system, which stems from recommendations made in a 2023 work visa review, implements transparent criteria for determining eligibility for Critical Skills or General Work Visas. Such measures are intended to safeguard existing jobs at the lower end of the labor market while facilitating the entry of skilled workers at the higher levels.

The reforms aim to eliminate bureaucratic barriers, making it easier for South African companies and multinational corporations to hire skilled workers. Furthermore, the updated visa regime positions South Africa as an appealing destination for remote workers looking to blend work opportunities with tourism.

“The opportunities unlocked by our new system are a passport to faster economic growth and a means to welcome more people from around the world to our beautiful country,” President Ramaphosa stated.

He emphasized that further reforms are underway, to achieve rapid, inclusive, and sustainable economic growth, which remains the top priority for the Government of National Unity.