4 types of work visas for students in South Africa

Are you thinking about becoming a student or getting a job in South Africa?

In this article, we talk about the study and work permits that allow you to live in South Africa – and eventually become an AppJobber.

If you are not an asylum seeker and do not hold South African citizenship, there are certain conditions you must fulfill in order to work and study in this beautiful country.

But you probably already know this.

What many people confuse, on the other hand, is that a study permit and a work permit are two different things.

Let us explain:

• A study permit allows you to study in South Africa until your studies end
• A work permit allows you to work in South Africa on condition that you are employed

What if you are a student and you want to work at the same time?

This is where things get a little more complicated. Here’s the deal:

South Africa allows foreigners to work in 4 conditions.

1. Study permit that allows part-time work

If you are a student, you can work up to 20 hours per week, as long as you don’t work during the academic holidays.

The only requirement is that you must hold a valid study permit. For this, you need to be enrolled in a South African university or academy.

2. Work permit sponsored by the company

The only way to get a work permit is to be sponsored by a company in South Africa. This involves a lot of job searching, applying and waiting!

3. Exchange permit for exchange students

If you are part of an exchange programme with a South African university, and if you are under 25 you can also work during your studies.

4. Study permit with permission to work

If you have a study permit and want to work part-time or full-time to get work experience, you can apply for permission from Home Affairs.

So can students really work in South Africa?

The simple answer is yes. If you fulfill the conditions listed above, then they can most definitely work in South Africa. And here is how you can make money in Johannesburg, Cape Town, and Durban.

Further Readings

Are you looking for a student job? Take a look at our other posts related to student jobs:

• 4 best part time jobs for college students

• The perfect solution to making money while studying working with a part-time student job

• Jobs for international students working as an international student in Usa

• How you can make extra money as a student from wherever you are

• Home jobs for students: the perfect way to make money during your studies

• Find a student job for the summer to earn money for the next term

• Student jobs – sign up and earn an income

• What is the minimum wage for student jobs in the USA

• Our freelance student jobs suggestions – they will save your wallet during your studies!

• How to make money as a student? How to find well-paid student jobs in US?

• What types of jobs can be performed by college students in the US?