When international assignees relocate to South Africa, their spouses often face significant challenges, particularly when it comes to finding employment. Despite their valuable skills and education, accompanying spouses are currently not permitted to work in South Africa. This restriction can have far-reaching implications for the success of international assignments, affecting both the assignees and their families.

The Role of Spouses in International Assignment Success
The spouse's satisfaction with their new life in a foreign country plays a crucial role in determining the success of an international assignment. A dissatisfied spouse can lead to an unhappy family, potentially resulting in the assignee returning home earlier than planned. This, in turn, can disrupt the entire assignment and have significant consequences for the assignee's career and the company's business operations.

Global Best Practices
In many parts of the world, the right to work is extended to the spouses of international assignees. This practice acknowledges the significant role spouses play in the success of relocations and supports them in continuing their careers, contributing to the local economy, and integrating into the community. South Africa, however, has yet to adopt such a policy, despite the obvious benefits it could bring.

The Case for Allowing Spouses to Work in South Africa
Allowing the spouses of Critical Skills Work Visa holders to work in South Africa could have numerous benefits. Many foreign spouses are highly educated and possess valuable skills that could greatly benefit the South African economy. By preventing them from working, South Africa is not only denying these individuals the opportunity to contribute meaningfully to society but is also missing out on potential tax revenue and the valuable transfer of skills that could occur.

A Path Forward for South Africa
Extending the right to work to the spouses of foreign workers may be a difficult policy to implement, but it is worth considering. By allowing spouses to work, even if limited to certain visa categories, South Africa would send a strong message that it values the holistic success of international assignees and their families. This could enhance South Africa's appeal as a destination for international talent, ensure the success of international assignments, and benefit from the skills and contributions of highly qualified foreign spouses.
In conclusion, the current policy restricting accompanying spouses from working in South Africa is a topic that deserves serious consideration. By reevaluating this policy, South Africa can take a significant step towards becoming a more attractive destination for international talent and ensuring the success of international assignments.