The Critical Skills Visa (CSV) allows foreign nationals with skills listed on the Critical Skills List to apply for a 5-year work visa - without needing a job offer upfront. The current list (updated 2022) includes engineering, ICT, health sciences, finance, academia, and specific trades. Applicants must prove their qualification matches a listed skill via SAQA evaluation and register with the relevant professional body.
When to hire a critical skills visa attorney
- Your qualification is listed on the current Critical Skills List.
- You have a CSV and want to switch or extend to PR.
- A CSV application has been rejected and needs appeal.
- You need professional body registration to qualify.
- Your employer wants to sponsor a foreign candidate.
What to expect
Your attorney maps your qualification to the List, obtains SAQA evaluation, arranges professional body registration (ECSA for engineers, HPCSA for healthcare, etc.), compiles police clearances/medicals, and lodges with VFS. Processing: 8-15 weeks. The CSV is valid for 5 years and doesn't tie you to a specific employer (unlike general work visas).
Typical fees
Full CSV application: R12,000-R30,000. SAQA evaluation and professional body registration separate - typically R2,000-R8,000. Appeals: R25,000-R80,000.
Verified attorneys
No attorneys match your filters.
No attorneys have self-selected this specialisation yet.
Browse all Immigration Law attorneys here →