The Minister of Home Affairs has officially launched Phase 2 of the Trusted Employer Scheme (TES), marking another important step in South Africa’s efforts to modernise its work visa system and make it easier for qualifying employers to recruit critical foreign skills.

The Trusted Employer Scheme was introduced to recognise reputable employers with a proven record of compliance. By participating in the scheme, qualifying companies may benefit from a more streamlined work visa application process for eligible foreign employees.

What is the Trusted Employer Scheme?

The Trusted Employer Scheme is an initiative of the Department of Home Affairs that allows approved employers to receive preferential treatment when applying for work visas on behalf of foreign nationals.

Rather than changing the legal requirements for work visas, the scheme focuses on reducing administrative delays and improving efficiency for employers that have demonstrated a strong compliance record.

What does Phase 2 mean?

Phase 2 expands the programme by inviting additional qualifying employers to participate.

This reflects the Department’s intention to continue developing a more efficient immigration system while supporting economic growth, investment and job creation.

Companies wishing to participate must meet the Department’s eligibility requirements and will be assessed before being admitted to the scheme.

Who should pay attention?

The announcement is particularly relevant for:

• South African companies that regularly recruit foreign professionals.
• Human resource managers.
• Corporate mobility teams.
• Employers experiencing shortages of specialised skills.
• Foreign professionals considering employment opportunities in South Africa.

What does this mean for employers?

Employers accepted into the Trusted Employer Scheme may experience a more predictable and efficient work visa process when recruiting qualifying foreign employees.

However, participation in the scheme does not remove the legal requirements for obtaining South African work visas. Employers and applicants must still satisfy the applicable provisions of the Immigration Act and Regulations.

Our view

The continued expansion of the Trusted Employer Scheme is a positive development for South Africa’s immigration system.

Reducing unnecessary administrative delays while maintaining proper compliance can assist businesses in accessing the skills they require and improve confidence in the country’s immigration processes.

As further details emerge regarding Phase 2, employers should carefully consider whether participation in the scheme could benefit their recruitment strategy.

Is the Trusted Employer Scheme the same as the Trusted Employer System?

Yes. The programme is sometimes described online as the South Africa Trusted Employer System. Its official name is the Trusted Employer Scheme, commonly abbreviated as TES.

Need advice?

If your organisation employs foreign nationals or is considering joining the Trusted Employer Scheme, Gema Visa Services can assist with immigration strategy, work visa applications and corporate immigration compliance.

Contact us to discuss your organisation’s requirements.

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