Reform the visa system to attract skills and investment

September 15, 2025

Implement the points-based system for the skilled work visa.

The department officially gazetted regulations introducing a points-based system for work visas, including critical skills work and general work visas in October 2024. Under this system, applicants must score at least 100 points to qualify based on several measurable attributes, including: occupation (maximum points if on critical skills list); job offers; qualifications; work experience; and…

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Clear the backlog of visa applications and reduce processing times

The Department of Home Affairs is clearing the backlog of visa applications, but has not fully completed the process. During the 2025 Sona, President Ramaphosa indicated the department had eradicated 90% of the 300,000 visa backlog. The department also extended concessions until September 2025 to manage remaining delays and reduce processing times effectively.

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