Overview
The Department of Home Affairs has introduced Phase II of the Trusted Employer Scheme (TES), expanding an initiative designed to simplify the employment of foreign skilled workers by qualifying South African businesses.
Who will be affected?
The expansion of the Trusted Employer Scheme will primarily affect businesses that rely on highly skilled foreign professionals to support their operations or future growth.
This includes organisations involved in major infrastructure developments, multinational companies establishing or expanding regional operations, and businesses operating in sectors where specialised skills are in short supply. Employers that regularly recruit international talent for technical, managerial or specialist positions may find the scheme particularly beneficial.
While the programme offers significant advantages, participation is not automatic. Employers must satisfy specific eligibility requirements, including demonstrating their contribution to the South African economy, compliance with employment and immigration legislation, and a commitment to developing local skills alongside international recruitment.
Background
South Africa has faced ongoing challenges in balancing the need to attract international expertise with the responsibility of protecting local employment opportunities. Over the past several years, businesses have frequently highlighted lengthy visa processing times and administrative complexity as obstacles to recruiting specialised professionals from abroad.
The Trusted Employer Scheme was developed as part of the Department of Home Affairs’ broader immigration reform agenda to address these concerns. The first phase tested a risk-based approach by allowing selected employers with strong compliance records to benefit from simplified immigration procedures.
Following positive outcomes from the initial implementation, the Department has expanded the programme through Phase II, providing more employers with the opportunity to access a faster and more efficient immigration process while maintaining appropriate regulatory oversight.
Impact
The expanded Trusted Employer Scheme has the potential to deliver meaningful benefits for both employers and the South African economy.
For businesses, quicker processing of work visa applications can reduce recruitment delays and improve the ability to secure specialised skills that may not be readily available within the local labour market. This is particularly important in industries where project timelines depend on access to experienced professionals.
From an economic perspective, the initiative supports South Africa’s efforts to attract investment and strengthen sectors that contribute to long-term growth. By making it easier for qualifying employers to recruit critical international expertise, the scheme may enhance business confidence and encourage multinational organisations to invest further in South Africa.
Importantly, the programme continues to emphasise the employment and development of South African citizens. Employers are expected to demonstrate that international recruitment complements local skills development rather than replacing it, ensuring that the scheme supports sustainable workforce growth.
Date of implementation
The Department of Home Affairs officially opened Phase II of the Trusted Employer Scheme on 20 July 2026. Employers wishing to participate must submit an Expression of Interest (EOI) before the closing date of 4 September 2026.
Santa Fe recommendation
Employers that anticipate recruiting foreign skilled workers over the coming years should carefully assess whether participation in the Trusted Employer Scheme aligns with their workforce planning strategy.
As part of their preparation, organisations should:
- Review the eligibility requirements and determine whether they meet the necessary criteria.
- Gather supporting information that demonstrates compliance with labour and immigration legislation, investment in South Africa, and commitment to local skills development.
- Consider future recruitment needs to evaluate whether Trusted Employer status could improve operational efficiency.
- Seek professional immigration advice where necessary to ensure that applications are accurate, complete and submitted within the prescribed timeframe.
Although the scheme offers valuable opportunities for qualifying employers, businesses should remember that Trusted Employer status does not remove their ongoing responsibility to comply with South Africa’s immigration and employment laws. Maintaining good compliance practices will remain essential to retaining the benefits offered under the programme.
Contact us
Please get in touch with us for further information or clarification:
Paolo Longo
General Manager
Santa Fe Relocation
+27 (0) 10 595 2337
paolo.longo@santaferelo.com
About our Immigration Services
Our distinguished immigration services oversee a substantial volume of visa applications annually, catering to a diverse array of international corporations. Our seasoned team of immigration experts and accredited migration agents are entrusted with the meticulous management of the entire immigration process on your behalf. We are committed to delivering streamlined reporting and offering comprehensive guidance on all immigration-related affairs, ensuring a smooth and efficient experience for our valued clients.