For establishing or investing in a business in South Africa. Requires a business plan and proof of investment capital (minimum R5 million, less for national interest sectors).
Two (2) recent colour passport-sized photographs (35mm x 45mm) on a white or light background. Applicant's name must be written on the back of each photograph.
Tip: Photos must be recent (within 6 months). White background, no glasses, neutral expression. Write your full name on the back.
Must be less than 6 months old
Duly completed and signed application form. BI-84 (Form 11) for visitor/short-term visas, or DHA-1738 (Form 8) for temporary residence visas, or DHA-947 (Form 18) for permanent residence. Forms are completed online through the VFS Global portal (visa.vfsglobal.com/zaf/en/dha). You must create a VFS account, fill the form digitally, pay the VFS service fee (R1,550), then download and print the completed form for your in-person submission appointment.
Tip: Complete the form online at ehome.dha.gov.za where available. Double-check every field before signing.
Signed letter of intent describing the nature and proposed operations of the business in South Africa.
A feasibility study / business plan outlining the viability of the business in both the short and long term. Must demonstrate the business will benefit the Republic.
Tip: The business plan should clearly show job creation for South Africans and economic contribution.
Proof of availability of the prescribed minimum investment capital of R5,000,000 from abroad. A South African chartered accountant must confirm the existence of funds in the applicant's overseas account, or that funds have been transferred to South Africa. A capital waiver may apply for priority/national interest sectors.
Tip: National interest/priority sectors may qualify for reduced capital requirements. Apply to DTIC for a capital waiver.
Must be less than 3 months old
A certificate or factual finding report issued by a chartered accountant registered with SAICA, a professional accountant registered with SAIPA, or a business accountant registered with SAIBA, confirming the availability of investment capital and/or the feasibility of the business.
Tip: For new businesses, this must certify capital availability. For existing businesses, it must evaluate ongoing viability.
Letter of recommendation from the Department of Trade, Industry and Competition (DTIC) confirming the business will benefit the South African economy. Application for DTIC letter should be made through the DTIC portal.
Tip: Apply to DTIC at least 3 months before your visa application. DTIC recommendation is critical for approval.
Company registration with CIPC or proof of intended registration. For existing businesses, include the company registration certificate, latest annual returns, and proof of tax registration.
An undertaking by the applicant that at least 60% of the total staff complement employed in the business operations shall be South African citizens or permanent residents, employed permanently in various positions.
CV setting out the applicant's expertise and experience in the type of business envisaged.
Medical examination report on prescribed form BI-811. Not older than 6 months.
Must be less than 6 months old
Radiological report on prescribed form. Not older than 6 months.
Must be less than 6 months old
Police clearance from each country of residence (12+ months since age 18). Not older than 6 months.
Must be less than 6 months old
Required if the applicant has travelled from, or intends travelling from or transiting through, a yellow fever endemic area. Must be the original International Certificate of Vaccination or Prophylaxis (ICVP).
Tip: Check the WHO list of yellow fever endemic countries. The certificate is valid for life after a 10-day activation period.
South African Revenue Service (SARS) tax compliance status PIN or certificate, if the applicant has previously been registered for tax in South Africa.
Proof of planned registration with the appropriate statutory body, if required by the nature of the business (e.g., CIDB for construction, PSIRA for security).
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