In this section you will find an up-to-date summary of requirements and documents needed in order to apply for a South African business permit.

If you are thinking about establishing a business or investing in an existing business in South Africa, and becoming actively involved in the day-to-day running of the business, you must apply for a business permit.

In order to apply for a business permit, you will have to submit Form BI-1738 (Application for Temporary Residence permit), as well as supporting documentation required for the Business permit. Form BI-1738 Can be downloaded here, or alternatively picked up at Home Affairs.

The supporting documentation required for business permits currently includes:

• Passport valid for at least 30 days after expiry of intended stay
• A medical certificate
• A radiological report
• Full birth certificate for each dependent child
• Marriage certificate or Affidavit (cohabiting life partners)
• Police clearance certificates in respect of all countries where person resided one year or longer
• If applicable: Divorce decree, Proof of Court order awaiting custody, Death certificate with respect to late spouse, Proof of legal adoption, Proof of legal separation order, Vaccination certificate
• Certification by a chartered accountant that at least R2.5million in cash or a capital contribution or a combination of both is available
• A Business Plan outlining feasibility of business
• Proof of undertaking that at least 5 South African citizens will be permanently employed
• Undertaking to register with appropriate statutory body, required by the nature of business Undertaking to register with the South African Revenue Service
• In case of investing into an existing business: Written partner agreements with full particulars of of the Partners/Directors, Documentation proving the investment by means of shareholders or partnership agreements, Financial statements proving viability of business.

Last updated December 10, 2009