The Department of Trade, Industry, and Competition (DTIC) has officially launched the Business Visa Recommendation System (VRS), a digital platform designed to simplify and expedite business visa applications in South Africa.
The VRS, which went live this week, replaces the previous email-based application process with a streamlined online system. It is available to all foreign business owners seeking first-time, extended, or permanent residence recommendations.
According to the DTIC, the system aims to improve efficiency, transparency, and accessibility for investors looking to establish, expand, or invest in businesses within the country.
A More Efficient and Transparent Process
Acting Deputy Director-General of Investment and Spatial Industrial Development at the DTIC, Yunus Hoosen, highlighted the advantages of the VRS, stating that the digital platform will reduce red tape and enhance the ease of doing business in South Africa.
“The VRS replaces the email application process with a digital platform, improving efficiency and accessibility for global investors. This initiative is part of ongoing efforts to create a business-friendly environment,” Hoosen explained.
From an administrative perspective, the system ensures smoother processing by eliminating incomplete applications, tracking applications in real-time, and compiling investment-related data for reporting and planning.
“The VRS marks a significant milestone in modernising the country’s investment facilitation framework, reinforcing South Africa’s commitment to fostering a business-friendly environment,” the DTIC added.
Key Features of the Business Visa Recommendation System
- Online Submission: Business visa applicants can now apply digitally for initial, extended, and permanent residence recommendations.
- Document Upload: Supporting documents can be submitted directly through the platform.
- Real-Time Tracking: Applicants can monitor their application’s progress.
- Automated Notifications: Updates and final recommendations are communicated through the system.
The system is expected to significantly reduce processing times and enhance the overall experience for foreign business owners seeking to invest in South Africa.
The South African government is also prioritising economic growth through tourism, aiming to attract nearly 15 million international visitors by 2030.
A key part of this strategy is the Trusted Tour Operators Scheme (TTOS), designed to simplify visa applications for tour operators catering to visitors from key markets such as India and China.
Currently, India and China account for less than 6% of South Africa’s international arrivals. Recognising the potential for growth, TTOS aims to remove bureaucratic obstacles, making it easier for tourists from these countries—where group travel is common—to visit South Africa.
This initiative, combined with the newly relaxed visa regime, forms part of South Africa’s broader efforts to boost business, tourism, and investment opportunities in the country.
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