NATIONAL NEWS - The Department of Home Affairs has officially launched Phase II of its Trusted Employer Scheme (TES), expanding the initiative to more businesses as part of efforts to modernise South Africa's immigration system, reduce red tape, attract investment and support economic growth and job creation.

The expanded scheme, gazetted on Monday, builds on the success of the first phase and will now include companies involved in strategic infrastructure projects, businesses establishing regional and global headquarters in South Africa, and qualifying entities in the financial sector.

The Trusted Employer Scheme forms part of the department's wider digital transformation strategy and introduces a dedicated online application process that will ultimately be integrated into South Africa's Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) platform.

The TES uses a risk-based approach to streamline visa applications for accredited employers, enabling qualifying businesses to recruit critical skills more efficiently while maintaining the integrity of the country's immigration system.

To qualify, companies must demonstrate meaningful investment in South Africa, employ predominantly South African citizens or permanent residents, invest in skills development, and operate within priority economic sectors.

Applications for TES Phase II will be evaluated by an independent interdepartmental committee to ensure a transparent, fair and merit-based assessment process.

Home Affairs Minister Leon Schreiber said the expansion of the Trusted Employer Scheme reinforces the department's role in supporting economic development.

"The launch of a bigger and better TES is yet another marker that Home Affairs increasingly works as an economic enabler, rather than as a constraint. This directly contributes to the apex priority of the Government of National Unity, which is to grow the economy to create jobs."

Schreiber said the introduction of a secure online application portal and the ongoing integration of the scheme into the ETA platform form part of the department's broader digital transformation programme.

"Through our vision to deliver Home Affairs @ home, we are irrevocably committed to building a department that enables investment, creates jobs, and makes South Africa's economy more globally competitive."

Expressions of interest for Trusted Employer Scheme Phase II opened on 20 July 2026 and will close on 4 September 2026.

The Government Gazette is available on the Department of Home Affairs website.

Source: SAnews.gov.za

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