South Africa is currently encouraging visa applications from investors who wish to establish businesses and create opportunities for immigrants to move to the country.
An independent government body, the Immigrants Selection Board (ISB), regulates South African visa applications.
People who may qualify for a South African Visa include those of good character, who are not likely to be a burden on the welfare system in the country and who have skills and experience in occupations, which are currently under-represented.
It is advisable that you complete the application process while in your country of residence and wait for the result before moving to South Africa. However, there are circumstances under which visa applications from within South Africa are allowed. These include you being in the country on a valid South Africa work permit, that you are married to a South African citizen or a permanent resident and are in the country on a valid temporary residence permit. It is also possible that a family member is sponsoring you, for immigration purposes, or you have been exempted from holding a temporary residence permit.
Several types of visa that the South African Immigration offers include medical, student, working, business and retirement.
South African citizenship is also available for anyone who wishes to live permanently in South Africa. When granted, the applicant is entitled to various benefits and rights including the right to vote. Citizenship can be obtained in three different ways, by birth, descent or by naturalisation.
All visas are subject to the ISB’s directive.