Business & investor visas
South African Business Visa
A temporary residence visa for foreign nationals who intend to establish or invest in a business in South Africa.
Expert reviewed Official guidance referenced
Under review — check current rules
The prescribed minimum capital amount and the required percentage of South African/permanent-resident employees are set in the regulations and may be waived for priority sectors; confirm current figures against the Immigration Regulations before relying on them.
Important information
Immigration rules and fees can change. This information is for general guidance only and does not constitute legal advice. Always check the latest requirements on the official South Africa government website before you apply.
- Official name
- Business Visa
- Route type
- Temporary residence visa (business/investment)
- Legal basis
- Immigration Act 13 of 2002 and Immigration Regulations 2014
- Core test
- Prescribed capital investment plus employment of South Africans/permanent residents
- Where to apply
- VFS Global visa facilitation centres (or missions abroad)
Who it is for
- Foreign entrepreneurs establishing a business in South Africa
- Foreign investors putting the prescribed capital into a new or existing South African business
Requirements
- A valid passport and completed application form
- A chartered accountant's certificate confirming the prescribed cash investment amount is available
- A business plan and a curriculum vitae setting out relevant expertise and experience
- Undertaking to employ the prescribed proportion of South African citizens or permanent residents
- Proof of registration with the relevant statutory bodies (e.g. SARS, CIPC, UIF) as applicable
- Police clearance certificate(s), a medical/radiological report, and attendance at an interview as required
What you can do
- Establish and run, or invest in and manage, a business in South Africa
- Apply for accompanying visas for eligible dependent family members
How to apply
- Prepare the business plan, investment proof, and chartered accountant's certificate
- Obtain a recommendation from the relevant government department where required
- Submit the application and supporting documents through VFS Global (in-country) or a South African mission abroad
Official sources
For the most accurate and up-to-date information, always refer to the official government sources.
Verified against official gov.uk sources · last reviewed 2026-08-21. Information only — not legal advice.