South Africa business visa for entrepreneurs and investors

You must undertake that at least 60% of the total staff in the business will be South African citizens or permanent residents employed permanently in various positions, and that you will register with the South African Revenue Service, the Unemployment Insurance Fund, the Compensation Fund for Occupational Injuries and Diseases, the Companies and Intellectual Property Commission where legally required, and any relevant SAQA-recognised professional body. A letter of recommendation from the Department of Trade and Industry on the feasibility of the business and its contribution to the national interest is also required.

Along with form BI-1738 you provide a passport valid 30 days beyond your departure, police clearance from countries where you lived more than 12 months in the last five years (not older than six months), civil-status documents where applicable and proof of payment. A medical report is no longer needed after Directive No. 10 of 2026. Renewals in South Africa must be lodged at least 60 days before the visa expires.

For a business not yet established, you must submit a certificate from a chartered accountant registered with SAICA, or a professional accountant registered with SAIPA, confirming that at least the cash amount, or cash plus capital contribution, determined by the Minister of Home Affairs after consulting the Minister of Trade and Industry by notice in the Government Gazette is available. DHA's page refers to that notice rather than stating the figure, so check the current notice before applying. For an existing business the certificate must show the amount is available or already invested.

Foreigners who intend to establish or already have a business in South Africa may apply for permanent residence on other grounds under section 27(c) of the Immigration Act, using form BI-947 and the additional documents it lists.