The Department of Trade, Industry, and Competition (the dtic) has launched the Business Visa Recommendation System (VRS), an online platform for business visa recommendation applications—for all foreign business owners applying for first, extension and or permanent residence recommendations in terms of the Immigration Act 13 of 2002. Business visa applicants will benefit from a more effective, transparent, and user-friendly application process that goes live today.
According to the Acting Deputy Director-General of Investment and Spacial Industrial Development at the dtic, Mr Yunus Hoosen, the main objective of the system is to enhance efficiency for business visa applicants. He mentions faster processing, convenience and transparency as some of the benefits of the VRS.
“The VRS replaces the email application process with a digital platform, improving efficiency and accessibility for global investors looking to reside in South Africa for the purpose of establishing, expanding and or invest in businesses. This initiative is part of inclusive and sustainable industrial development’s ongoing efforts to reduce red tape and simplify the ease of doing business in South Africa,” explains Hoosen.
“From an administrative viewpoint, the VRS is a solution for collecting, managing, and reviewing applications online. In addition, it eliminates incomplete applications from being submitted, provides monitoring of applications received and finalised and provide investment-related information needed for reporting and planning amongst others,” adds Hoosen.
In conclusion, Hoosen says the VRS is aligned with South Africa’s broader e-governance initiatives, which seeks to improve accessibility to government services through digital transformation. Furthermore, the VRS marks a significant milestone in modernising the country’s investment facilitation framework, reinforcing South Africa’s commitment to fostering a business-friendly environment.
Key Features of the Visa Recommendation System (VRS):
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- Online Submission – Applicants can now submit Business Visa for first, extension and permanent recommendations applications digitally.
- Document Upload – Required supporting documents can be uploaded directly to the system.
- Real-Time Tracking – Applicants can monitor the progress of their applications.
- Automated Notifications – Updates and final recommendations will be communicated through the system.
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- For more information, visit: https://vrs.thedtic.gov.za/
MEDIA ENQUIRIES:
Bongani Lukhele – Director: Media Relations
Tel: (012) 394 1643
Mobile: 079 5083 457
WhatsApp: 074 2998 512
E-mail: BLukhele@thedtic.gov.za
Issued by: The Department of Trade, Industry and Competition (the dtic)
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