South Africa has taken another step in reforming its immigration system with the launch of Phase II of the Trusted Employer Scheme (TES), a programme aimed at helping qualifying businesses recruit international talent more efficiently while supporting economic growth and investment.
Announced by the Department of Home Affairs (DHA), the expanded scheme introduces a fully digital application process that is expected to simplify work visa applications for accredited employers. The initiative forms part of the department’s broader digital transformation strategy and is expected to be integrated into South Africa’s future Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) platform.
Companies accepted into the programme will benefit from an exclusive online application portal, reduced documentation requirements, dedicated Key Account Managers and faster visa processing times.
Home Affairs said the second phase broadens the programme’s reach beyond the original participants to include companies involved in strategic infrastructure projects, businesses establishing regional or global headquarters in South Africa and qualifying organisations within the financial sector.
Digital immigration reforms aimed at supporting investment
The Trusted Employer Scheme uses a risk-based accreditation model designed to reduce administrative delays for businesses that meet strict eligibility requirements.
To qualify, employers must demonstrate meaningful investment in South Africa, employ predominantly South African citizens or permanent residents, contribute to skills development and operate within sectors regarded as strategic priorities for the country’s economy.
Applications will continue to undergo independent assessment by an interdepartmental committee to ensure transparency and consistency throughout the approval process.
Home Affairs Minister Leon Schreiber said the expansion reflects the department’s changing role in supporting economic development rather than acting solely as a regulatory authority.
According to Schreiber, improving visa efficiency directly supports the Government of National Unity’s objective of stimulating economic growth and creating employment opportunities.
He added that the continued rollout of digital services, including the online TES platform and its future integration into the ETA system, demonstrates the department’s commitment to building a modern, technology-driven immigration system that strengthens South Africa’s competitiveness as an investment destination.
Programme builds on first phase launched in 2023
The Trusted Employer Scheme was first introduced in late 2023 to simplify visa applications for foreign employees recruited by qualifying companies.
During the initial phase, businesses were required to satisfy several criteria, including making capital investments in South Africa, operating graduate development programmes, maintaining at least 60% South African employment and remaining compliant with relevant government regulations.
The department received 180 applications during the first intake, approving 65 companies. Thirty-five applications were declined after failing to meet the minimum requirements, although those applicants were permitted to appeal. Additional applications submitted after the deadline were not considered.
The programme covers several key visa categories, including the Critical Skills Work Visa, General Work Visa and Intra-Company Transfer Work Visa.
Before the scheme was introduced, employers recruiting highly skilled foreign professionals often faced lengthy administrative processes. For example, applicants for Critical Skills Work Visas typically needed South African Qualifications Authority (SAQA) verification and registration with relevant professional bodies, procedures that could take several months before a visa application could proceed.
The Trusted Employer Scheme seeks to reduce those delays while maintaining immigration safeguards. However, Home Affairs has stressed that participating employers remain responsible for ensuring applicants possess the required qualifications, experience and professional credentials before recruitment.
The department believes the continued expansion of the programme will improve South Africa’s ability to attract global skills, encourage foreign investment and strengthen long-term economic development.
Source: BusinessTech