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…
read more >>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.
read more >>Implement a fully automated Electronic Travel Authoriation (ETA) system
The ETA system is a digital pre-boarding permit that allows eligible travellers to enter a country for short visits and tourist purposes. It also helps to screen travellers before they arrive. The ETA is expected to be launched in September 2025. Over time, it is expected to replace paper-based visas by issuing the traveller with…
read more >>Implement e-Gates at major ports of entry
Automated entry-and-exit systems (or e-gates) are yet to be launched. The Department of Home Affairs intends to expand the use of biometric technology (Biometric Movement Control System [BMCS]) for passenger and goods checks at ports of entry. Coupled with the ETA system, the Border Management Authority (BMA) will roll out automated entry-and-exit systems at all…
read more >>Trusted employer scheme
The Trusted Employer Scheme (TES) system is intended to reduce the administrative burden for companies when making visa applications for skilled foreign labout. Employers who meet the TES selection criteria must apply and be admitted to the TES to benefit from this streamlined process. TES employers are able to submit critical skills visas, intra-company transfers…
read more >>Removal of red tape
The Red Tape Reducation (RTR) task team, established to reduce excessively complex rules, regulations and procedures around work permits and visa administration, no longer exists as a stand-alone unit. The team, however, supported the implementation of recommendations from Operation Vulindlela (phase 1) working in this area. The outcomes included the publication of the Work Visa…
read more >>Process stream lining
The revised immigration regulations (Second Amendment Immigration Regulations [2014]), amending the Immigration Act (2002), were published/gazetted in May 2024. HALTED: We stopped tracking this specific reform at end-June 2025 and as it is covered by other related reform categories.
read more >>New visa categories
New visa categories such as the remote working or digital nomad visa are yet to be launched. However, the associated immigration policy document has been published/gazetted (Second Amendment Immigration Regulations in May 2024).
read more >>Expanded list of countries
Tourists from eligible countries are able to apply for their visa online. When launched in 2022, the e-visa was for 14 countries and as of 2025, 24 more countries have been added to the list. These countries are regarded as the main tourism producers. The latest countries to be added include France, Japan and Germany.
read more >>Regularise critical skills list updates
The critical skills work visa is issued in accordance with the critical skills list. However, the list does not always match industry requirements. The critical skills work visa will be integrated into the points-based system.
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