France again warns that SA's strict visa requirements driving investors away
The process of applying for a work visa in South Africa has often been described as long and torturous, made worse by an inefficient paper-based system that takes up to as much as six months to process.
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JOHANNESBURG - Some French diplomats have again warned that South Africa's strict visa requirements are driving investors away.
The warning comes at a time when the country is on an intensified drive to draw in foreign direct investment to help boost the underperforming economy.
But strict conditions and a protracted wait are believed to make companies think twice about bringing their business to South African shores.
The process of applying for a work visa in South Africa has often been described as long and torturous, made worse by an inefficient paper-based system that takes up to as much as six months to process.
Companies looking to set up shop in the country need a foreign direct investment of at least R5 million and ensure that 60% of their workforce is South African.
Once those boxes are ticked, the process is likely to be stalled by an existing backlog in visa applications.
French ambassador to SA, David Martinon, said that a simpler visa regime would go a long way.
"Because it will allow these companies to safely invest, organise, recruit the right teams, train them and then make sure the foreign executive eventually to leave the country because that’s how it works."
Martinon said that addressing other challenges such as crime and corruption, as well as inefficiencies in the energy and transport sectors would help boost investor confidence.