South Africa Opens Phase Two of Trusted Employer Scheme 2026– Online Portal Launched for Faster Visa Processing
- Xavi
- 16 hours ago
- 3 min read
Updated: 3 minutes ago
PRETORIA — July 21, 2026 — The South African Department of Home Affairs has launched phase two of the Trusted Employer Scheme (TES) , effective July 20, 2026, introducing a dedicated online visa application portal and expanding eligibility to companies involved in strategic infrastructure projects, businesses establishing regional and global headquarters, and qualifying entities in the financial sector.
The Trusted Employer Scheme simplifies the visa application process for employers recruiting skilled workers, primarily senior executives, technical personnel, corporate employees and investors. Phase two marks a significant expansion of the programme, which was first introduced to streamline visa processing for qualifying employers.
Quick Facts: South Africa Trusted Employer Scheme (TES) 2026
Feature | Details |
Phase Two Launch | July 20, 2026 |
New Online Portal | Dedicated visa application platform introduced |
New Eligible Entities | Strategic infrastructure projects, regional/global headquarters, financial sector entities |
Application Period | Open through September 4, 2026 |
Key Benefits | Simplified visa processing, faster approvals |
Target Workers | Senior executives, technical personnel, corporate employees, investors |
Future Integration | Planned with South Africa's Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) platform |
What's New in Phase Two
1. Expanded Eligibility
Phase two of TES expands eligibility to:
Companies involved in strategic infrastructure projects
Companies setting up regional and global headquarters in South Africa
Qualifying entities in the financial sector
This broadens the pool of employers who can benefit from streamlined visa processing for foreign nationals.
2. Dedicated Online Visa Application Portal
A dedicated online application portal has been introduced, allowing employers to submit visa applications digitally. This replaces paper-based submissions for participating employers and is expected to significantly reduce processing times.
3. Future Integration with ETA Platform
The Department of Home Affairs plans to integrate the TES portal with South Africa's Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) platform, further streamlining the process for employers and visa applicants.
How the Trusted Employer Scheme Works
Employer Requirements
To qualify for the TES, employers must:
Requirement | Details |
Investment | Demonstrate meaningful investment in South Africa |
Employment | Employ predominantly South African citizens or permanent residents |
Skills Development | Invest in skills development and training |
Sector | Operate in priority sectors |
Key Benefits for Employers
Benefit | Impact |
Simplified Visa Processing | Reduced administrative burden |
Faster Approvals | Streamlined processing for qualifying employers |
Online Portal | Digital submissions instead of paper-based applications |
Dedicated Support | Easier navigation of visa requirements |
Application Process
Step | Action |
1 | Express interest through the Home Affairs website |
2 | Demonstrate compliance with TES requirements |
3 | Receive approval as a Trusted Employer |
4 | Submit visa applications through the dedicated online portal |
What This Means for Employers and Foreign Workers
For Employers
Easier access to skilled foreign talent in priority sectors
Faster visa processing through the online portal
Simplified compliance with immigration regulations
Enhanced ability to attract senior executives and technical personnel
For Foreign Workers
Reduced visa processing times for qualifying employers
Digital application process through the online portal
Support for long-term employment in South Africa
Practical Advice
Action | Details |
Check eligibility | Determine if your company qualifies for TES |
Apply early | The application period is open through September 4, 2026 |
Prepare documentation | Ensure all compliance requirements are met |
Use the online portal | Submit applications digitally once approved |
Monitor updates | Stay informed about future integration with ETA |
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