About applying for exchange permit - worker

If you are a foreigner and have received an offer to conduct work in South Africa for no longer than one year, you must apply for exchange permit – worker. To qualify, you must be under 25 years old.

The exchange permit is valid for a year and the requirements may be waived by Home Affairs Director –General.

What you should do

• Go to your nearest Home Affairs office or South African representative if you are applying from abroad.
• Complete form BI-1738.
• Your passport must be valid for no less than 30 days after the expiry of your intended visit.
  
• Bring the following:
• vaccination certificate, if required 
• proof of financial means in the form of:
• bank statements
• cash available, or travellers’ cheques
• medical cover in terms of a South African medical scheme or a recognised medical scheme
• cash deposit of equivalent value of your return ticket to your country of origin or residences
• a valid temporary residence permit, if applicable
• medical and radiological report
• police clearance of all countries you lived in for 12 months or longer since the age of 18 years
• statement from the prospective employer certifying:
• the position exists
• your remuneration complies with labour requirements
• will provide for the welfare and your  needs while  still employed by him
• will inform Home Affairs if you do not comply with the terms and conditions of your permit or leaves the country
• you will leave when your permit expires.
  

Timeframe

It might take six months to finalise your application.

How much does it cost

R 425

Forms to complete

Application for temporary residence permit, BI-1738

Who to contact