South Africa Launches Trusted Employer Scheme Phase II to Streamline Work Visa Processing

Key Point  

• South Africa has launched Phase II of its Trusted Employer Scheme (TES), expanding eligibility to additional sectors and introducing a digital application process designed to facilitate the recruitment of foreign talent, attract investment and support economic growth. 

Trusted Employer Scheme Phase II 

On July 20, 2026, South Africa’s Department of Home Affairs announced the launch of Phase II of the Trusted Employer Scheme (TES), a program aimed at modernizing the country’s immigration system and simplifying work visa processes for qualifying employers.  

The Department of Home Affairs indicate the initiative seeks to reduce administrative burdens, enhance access to critical skills and encourage foreign investment while maintaining immigration compliance standards. 

Expanded Eligibility Under Phase II 

Building on the initial phase of the program, TES Phase II expands participation to: 

• Companies involved in strategic infrastructure projects 
• Businesses establishing regional or global headquarters in South Africa 
• Qualifying entities within the financial services sector  

The government stated that the expansion is intended to support priority industries and strengthen South Africa’s competitiveness as a destination for international investment and talent. 

New Digital Application Process 

As part of the Department of Home Affairs’ broader digital transformation strategy, TES Phase II introduces a dedicated online application process for participating employers. The government also noted that it will ultimately integrate the program into South Africa’s forthcoming Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) platform to further digitize immigration processes.

Benefits for Qualifying Employers 

The Trusted Employer Scheme uses a risk-based accreditation model that allows approved employers to navigate work visa procedures more efficiently. According to the Department of Home Affairs, qualifying organizations may benefit from potentially faster access to critical foreign talent while supporting compliance and program integrity. 

To qualify, companies must generally demonstrate: 

• Meaningful investment in South Africa 
• A workforce primarily composed of South African citizens or permanent residents 
• Investment in skills development initiatives 
• Operations within priority economic sectors  

Applications will be evaluated by an interdepartmental committee through a transparent, merit-based assessment process.  

Key Dates 

The Department of Home Affairs announced that expressions of interest for TES Phase II opened on July 20, 2026, and will close on September 4, 2026. 

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