1. Understanding the Spousal Temporary Residence Visa
A Spousal Temporary Residence Visa is issued to foreign spouses of South African citizens or permanent residents. It allows the foreign spouse to reside in South Africa based on their marriage or life partnership. However, this visa does not automatically grant work rights—you must apply for authorization to work, study, or run a business.
2. Can You Work on a Spousal Visa?
Yes, but you must apply for a work endorsement on your spousal visa. This means you cannot simply take up employment—you need prior approval from the Department of Home Affairs (DHA).
3. How to Apply for a Work Endorsement on a Spousal Visa
If you want to work while on a spousal visa, you must apply for an endorsement that allows you to work. Here’s the step-by-step process:
Step 1: Secure a Job Offer
• You need a formal job offer from a South African employer before applying for the work endorsement.
• The employer must provide a contract of employment specifying your job role, duration, and salary.
Step 2: Prepare the Required Documents
You must submit the following to Home Affairs:
Application for changing conditions on your visa.
Employer’s Confirmation Letter – A letter from your employer confirming the job offer.
Contract of Employment – A signed contract from your employer detailing salary and responsibilities.
Proof of Employer’s Business Registration – The employer must provide proof that their business is registered in South Africa (CIPC documents).
Step 3: Submit Your Application to DHA
• You must submit the application at the VFS Global visa center in South Africa.
• Pay the VFS and DHA application fees.
• Obtain a receipt and tracking number for your application.
Step 4: Wait for Processing
• DHA processing can take 8 to 12 weeks, depending on workload.
• If approved, your visa will be updated with a work endorsement, allowing you to legally work for the specified employer.
4. Key Considerations
Work Endorsement is Employer-Specific – You can only work for the employer listed in your endorsement. If you change jobs, you must apply for a new endorsement.
Cannot Work Without Endorsement – If you work without authorization, you may face fines, visa cancellation, or deportation.
Self-Employment or Business Option – If you want to start your own business, you need to apply for a business endorsement instead.
5. Alternative: Applying for a General Work Visa Instead
If your employer prefers, they can sponsor you for a General Work Visa, which is separate from your spousal visa. However, this process requires:
• Proof that no South African citizen or permanent resident is available for the job (via a Department of Labour recommendation).
• SAQA evaluation of your foreign qualifications.
• Longer processing time (often 6+ months).
For this reason, many foreign spouses prefer to apply for the work endorsement on their spousal visa, as it is faster and more straightforward.
Conclusion
Yes, you can work in South Africa on a Spousal Temporary Residence Visa, but you must apply for a work endorsement before starting employment. This process involves securing a job offer, submitting the necessary documents, and waiting for DHA approval. Working without authorization can lead to penalties, so it is important to follow the correct procedure.
Would you like help with spouse plus work or guidance on where to apply?
How can we help you , please email us to info@samigration.com whatsapp message me on:
+27 82 373 8415, where are you now? check our website : www.samigration.com
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