The future is Africa: Relocation Africa supports global corporates’ foreign employees in embracing the unknown

SOUTH African immigration appears to be moving towards a more foreign-friendly model, yet there are still many challenges being experienced by foreign nationals, applying in-country and abroad. We find that both the Department of Home Affairs and missions abroad are inconsistent in adjudicating work visas. Furthermore, we’ve noticed that decisions tend to be based on the Department’s own interpretation of the law, which has resulted in erroneous denials of legitimate visa applications. Temporary Residence Visa applications have been known to be rejected up to 50% of the time. This makes it clear that there is less emphasis on the law itself, and more discretion being exercised when adjudicating cases.

However not all is lost. Relocation Africa had the privilege of attending a recent round-table with Home Affairs Minister, Dr Aaron Motsoaledi. The Minister discussed work-related visas, as well as encouraged an open discussion for practitioners to share their experiences regarding the South African immigration law processes and procedures. Many shared their frustration regarding the inconsistency between the SA Act and the adjudication of current immigration applications. We are hopeful that this dialogue will spark dramatic change within various immigration-related governmental bodies, which will encourage foreign talent to invest, work, and transfer the vital skills needed for South Africa’s economy to prosper. Over 400 000 South Africans have repatriated since 2009. Due to the high demand for relocation and the influx of repatriates, President Cyril Ramaphosa confirmed in October 2019 that the government has prioritised immigration reform to attract skilled workers to the country. He mentioned how important it is to attract investment to boost the South African economy. The improvement of business conditions through reforms, as well a strategic plan to improve the ease of doing business in the country, are crucial in the development of a prosperous immigration process that will assist in accommodating the high demand for African immigration support.

Located in Cape Town, South Africa, Relocation Africa has been serving the mobility industry since 1993. We provide services including mobility, immigration, research, remuneration, and expatriate tax support for foreign employees into and across Africa. We have been helping clients in South African immigration matters for over 15 years, and currently abet in over 20 African countries with corporate immigration support.

The company’s focus is to remain an African boutique service provider, catering for the influx of companies seeking to do business in Africa. Our unique team dynamic, and the interpersonal engagement with our clients and suppliers, is what sets us apart from our competitors. Our team across the continent provides an impeccable standard of service, which has warranted us the Graebel Superior Quality Achievement 2019 Award, as well as a 2019 Cartus Supplier Innovation Award.

Relocation Africa will continue to grow, collaborate, and share our unique value proposition with our partners and corporate clientele.

Should you require more details regarding our services, please do not hesitate to contact us.