Critical Skills Work VisaRequirements Checklist
Complete checklist of Critical Skills Work Visa requirements under Section 19(4) of the Immigration Act. Ensure you have all required documents for a successful application.
Application Progress
New Application Documents Required
Complete the checklist below to ensure you have all required documents for your new Critical Skills Work Visa application.
Important Notes
General Requirements
A critical skills work visa is not a work-seekers visa. All applications must be accompanied by an offer of employment from Employers who are verifiable and are in good standing with the Department of Employment and Labour.
Corporate General Manager and Director Occupations
For all Corporate General Manager (CGM) and Director occupations check the additional requirements in Table 10 of the Critical Skills Technical Report available on the Department of Home Affairs website.
University Lecturers
University Lecturers must specify the classification of education subject matter as per Annexure 2 of the Critical Skills Technical Report available on the Department of Home Affairs website.
Additional Resources
For detailed technical requirements and additional information, visit the Department of Home Affairs website and review the Critical Skills Technical Report.
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about Critical Skills Work Visa requirements and application process.
What is the difference between new application and renewal requirements?
The main difference is in the police clearance certificate requirement. For renewals within South Africa, you don't need police clearance from foreign countries, only from South Africa. All other requirements remain largely the same.
How long does SAQA qualification evaluation take?
SAQA evaluation typically takes 20-25 working days for standard applications. We recommend starting this process early as it's often the longest part of the application process.
Do I need professional body registration for all Critical Skills occupations?
Most Critical Skills occupations require registration with a relevant professional body recognized by SAQA. Some occupations may have specific registration requirements or exemptions - check your specific occupation requirements.
Can handwritten application forms be accepted?
No, the Department of Home Affairs will not accept handwritten forms. All applications must be completed online using the official DHA portal.
What happens if my police clearance expires during the application process?
Police clearance certificates must not be older than six months at the time of submission. If it expires during processing, you may need to provide an updated certificate.
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