Documents Required for a General Work Permit Renewal in South Africa.

Section 26(A) – General Work Permit renewals

Family members may apply together with the principal applicant. Below is a detailed list of the documents required for a General Work Permit application in South Africa. Please ensure that all documents are prepared in accordance with the specified guidelines to avoid delays or rejection of your application.

General Notes on Documentation

1. Original or Certified Copies: All documents issued by the authorities of the applicant’s country of origin must be original or certified copies.

2. Translations: If documents are not in English, they must be translated by a sworn translator, and the translation must be certified as accurate.

3. Temporary Visa Renewal: Applicants must renew their temporary residence visa while awaiting the outcome of their permanent residence application.

Required Documents

1. VFS South Africa Appointment Letter

   • A confirmed appointment letter from VFS Global, the visa facilitation service provider.

2. DHA-947 Form

   • A duly completed DHA-947 form, submitted online. Handwritten forms will not be accepted by the Department of Home Affairs.

3. Application Fee Payment

   • Proof of payment of the application fee of R2,870.

   • If paid via Electronic Fund Transfer (EFT), provide the original bank payment receipt.

4. Passport and Photographs

   • A valid original passport for each applicant.

   • One recent passport-sized photograph for each applicant aged one year or older.

     • The photograph must be full-face, clear, and of high quality.

     • The applicant’s name must be written on the back of the photograph.

     • Machine-type or instant photographs are not acceptable.

5. Valid General Work Visa

   • If applying within South Africa, a valid general work visa for temporary residence must be presented for each applicant.

6. Marriage Certificate or Proof of Relationship

   • For spouses accompanying or joining the applicant:

     • A marriage certificate or proof of relationship.

     • Note: Islamic marriages entered into within South Africa are not recognized for this purpose.

7. Divorce Decree or Death Certificate

   • If applicable, provide:

     • A divorce decree to prove the dissolution of a previous marriage.

     • A death certificate of a deceased spouse.

8. Proof of Financial Support

   • Evidence of mutual financial support between the applicant and their dependents.

9. Parental Responsibilities and Rights

   • For dependent children accompanying or joining the applicant:

     • Proof of parental responsibilities and rights.

     • Written consent in the form of an affidavit from the other parent or legal guardian.

10. Unabridged Birth Certificate

    • An unabridged birth certificate or extract from the birth record for each applicant.

11. Deed Poll (if applicable)

    • A deed poll for applicants who have changed their name, surname, or gender.

12. Police Clearance Certificate

    • An original police clearance certificate from every country where the applicant has resided for 12 months or longer after turning 18 years old.

    • The certificate must not be older than six months at the time of submission.

    • Note: This is not required for visa renewals or extensions.

13. Radiological Report

    • A radiological report (chest X-ray) for all applicants, except:

      • Children under 12 years of age.

      • Pregnant women.

    • The report must not be older than six months at the time of application.

14. Medical Report

    • A medical report for all applicants, not older than six months at the time of application.

15. Yellow Fever Vaccination Certificate

    • Required if the applicant has traveled or intends to travel through a yellow fever endemic area.

    • Not required if traveling in direct transit through such an area or if the application is made within South Africa.

16. Proof of Five Years Continuous Work Visa

    • Evidence of holding a valid work visa for five consecutive years, excluding:

      • Intra-company transfer visas.

      • Corporate visas.

      • Zimbabwean special project visas.

17. Offer of Permanent Employment

    • A contract of employment confirming permanent employment in South Africa.

    • A letter from the employer confirming current and permanent employment, not older than six months.

18. Proof of Qualifications

    • Proof of qualifications evaluated by the South African Qualifications Authority (SAQA).

19. Work References or Certificates of Service

    • Work references or certificates of service covering at least the last five years of employment.

20. Biometric Enrollment

    • Applicants must present themselves for biometric data collection at the visa facilitation center.

21. Endorsement from Professional Association

    • If applicable, an endorsement or certification from a relevant professional association.

Additional Notes

• Ensure all documents are complete, accurate, and up-to-date.

• Applications with missing or incorrect documentation may be delayed or rejected.

• For further clarification or assistance, consult with legal experts or immigration professionals.

By carefully preparing and submitting the required documents, you can ensure a smooth and successful application process for your General Work Permit in South Africa.