Moving to South Africa as an AI professional is easier when you know how the Critical Skills Visa works. This guide summarises what we coach our candidates through every week.
## 1. Confirm Your Occupation Is Listed
– Review the latest **Critical Skills List** published by the Department of Home Affairs (DHA). AI roles typically fall under ICT categories such as “Software Developer”, “Data Scientist”, “ICT Security Specialist”, and “Information Systems Technician”.
– Download the list from [dha.gov.za](https://www.dha.gov.za/) or follow official updates through the Government Gazette. Save a PDF copy for your application pack.
## 2. Gather Proof of Your Skills
– Obtain a **South African Qualifications Authority (SAQA)** certificate evaluating your degree or professional credentials.
– Prepare letters of reference highlighting years of experience, technologies used, and proof that your work aligns with a listed occupation.
– Update your CV to showcase nationally scarce capabilities: production AI systems, MLOps, cloud certifications, and regulated-industry delivery.
## 3. Secure Professional Body Registration
– Many technology applicants register with the **Engineering Council of South Africa (ECSA)** or **IITPSA** (Institute of Information Technology Professionals SA).
– Membership letters demonstrate your commitment to South African professional standards and are requested by DHA adjudicators.
## 4. Compile the DHA Submission Pack
– Passport valid for at least 30 months after submission.
– Completed DHA-1738 form and appointment booking confirmation.
– Police clearance certificates for every country you have lived in for 12+ months since age 18.
– A signed work contract or offer letter from a South African employer (PickTwo provides this once we confirm a placement).
– Proof of funds to support yourself for at least three months in South Africa.
## 5. Submit & Track
– Submit through VFS Global in your country of residence. Keep scanned copies of everything.
– Processing times average **8–12 weeks**. VFS will email status updates; you can also log into the portal for progress.
## 6. Arrival Checklist
– Activate your South African bank account and tax number (SARS) within the first month.
– Keep all visa approval letters – you will need them when switching to permanent residency later.
### Pro Tips from PickTwo
– Apply for your **unabridged birth certificate** now; some countries take weeks to issue it.
– Critical Skills Visas are valid for up to 5 years. We recommend applying for permanent residency as soon as you hit the five-year employment mark (see our PR guide).
– Stay connected with PickTwo – we coordinate onboarding, housing leads, and community events for relocated engineers.