South Africa’s Home Affairs Minister, Leon Schreiber, announced the launch of a new “Remote Visa” at the RMB Morgan Stanley Investor Conference on Tuesday, September 17, 2024. The visa will allow foreign workers employed by companies abroad to live and spend their income in South Africa, as part of an effort to boost the local economy.
Schreiber highlighted that these remote workers, or “nomads,” can move to South Africa and spend foreign currency locally without facing tax obligations unless they stay for more than six months in the country. “They can spend their dollars, yen, euros, or pounds here while contributing to our economy, without the burden of registering with the revenue service unless they stay for half a year,” Schreiber explained.
He emphasized the financial benefits for South Africa, stating that the country incurs no costs in employing these workers, yet reaps significant economic rewards. “They will shop in our supermarkets, dine at local restaurants, and visit South African tourist sites, all while living in one of the most beautiful countries on earth,” Schreiber added.
In addition to the Remote Visa, Schreiber also announced the introduction of a points-based work visa system designed to attract highly skilled professionals. The new system will allow workers to apply based on a combination of their qualifications, experience, language skills, and the salary offered, rather than relying solely on the existing critical skills list.
Schreiber noted that companies offering high salaries would signal that the worker possesses skills in demand. “The job market, not bureaucrats, should determine who has a critical skill,” he said.
The minister also mentioned plans to cut red tape for major tour groups from China and India under the Trusted Employer and Trusted Tour Operator schemes, aimed at boosting tourism and simplifying visa processes.
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