Global Talent-Based Visas

Talent visas are offered to highly skilled professionals such as experts working in STEM fields, distinguished athletes or artists, those with advanced degrees, exceptional or extraordinary ability. Key regions and countries that offer talent-based visas or those substantially similar:

North America

Canada

The Global Talent Stream (GTS) in Canada is a work permit program aimed at attracting highly skilled international talent to fill specialized roles swiftly with two main categories:

  1. Category A: For High-Growth Companies

    • Criteria:

      • Employer must be referred by a designated partner (e.g., accelerator, venture capital, angel investor).

      • Position must be highly skilled and not listed on the Global Talent Occupations List.

  2. Category B: For in-Demand occupations by employers on the Global Talent Occupations List quickly.

    • Criteria:

      • Position must be on the Global Talent Occupations List, covering roles like software engineers and data analysts.

      • Employers must show efforts to hire Canadians or permanent residents before applying through GTS.

Eligibility Requirements for Employers

  • Labor Market Benefits Plan (LMBP): Employers must create a plan showing positive impacts on the Canadian labor market, including job creation, skill investment, and diversity enhancement.

  • Business Stability: Employers must be financially stable and able to meet job offer terms, including salary and benefits.

  • Legal Compliance: Employers must adhere to Canadian laws and regulations, including employment standards and workplace safety.

Eligibility Requirements for Foreign Workers

  • Job Offer: Must have a job offer from a Canadian employer approved under GTS.

  • Skills and Experience: Must possess specialized skills and experience required for the job.

  • Work Permit Application: With a positive Labor Market Impact Assessment (LMIA), workers can apply for an expedited work permit under GTS.

Application Process

  1. Employer Application: Canadian employer applies via a designated referral partner (Category A) or directly to Employment and Social Development Canada (Category B).

  2. Labor Market Impact Assessment (LMIA): Approved employers receive a positive LMIA, indicating a positive or neutral impact on the Canadian labor market.

  3. Work Permit Application: With a positive LMIA, the foreign worker applies for a work permit, typically processed within two weeks.

Other Pathways for Highly Skilled Individuals

  1. Global Talent Stream (GTS): Facilitates entry of highly skilled workers via streamlined processes for employers needing specialized talent.

  2. Express Entry Program: Manages applications for permanent residence under the Federal Skilled Worker Program, Federal Skilled Trades Program, and Canadian Experience Class.

  3. Provincial Nominee Programs (PNPs): Allows provinces and territories to nominate individuals for permanent residence based on local needs.

  4. Business Immigration Programs: Targets entrepreneurs, investors, and self-employed individuals who can contribute to the Canadian economy.

For the latest information, see:

Latin America

Chile

Employment-based Work Visas for Foreign Workers

  1. Visa Tech (Visa de Responsabilidad Democrática)

  • Eligibility: For foreign nationals in technology fields such as IT, digital transformation, and entrepreneurship.

    • With Sponsorship: A letter of invitation or sponsorship certificate from the Undersecrtariat of Economy.

    • Without Sponsorship: A letter of invitation or certificate or a sponsorship from InvestChile.

  • Benefits: Expedited visa processing, family reunification, and potential for permanent residency.

  1. Start-up Chile Visa

  • Eligibility: For entrepreneurs starting innovative businesses in Chile, endorsed by Start-Up Chile, a seed accelerator created by the Chilean government.

  • Benefits: Support for start-ups, access to funding and networks, and a simplified visa process.

  • Programs – Build; Ignite; Growth

Eligibility Requirements

Business entry authorization

  1. Short-Term Work Authorization

  2. Temporary Residence Visa (16 categories)

    1. Remunerated Work

      1. Sponsored

      2. Self-employed

        1. Chile is an associate member of MERCOSUR, a South American trade bloc. Citizens of Argentina, Bolivia, Brazil, Paraguay, ​and Uruguay can apply for a two-year, nationality-based temporary residence visa. No corporate sponsorship is required.

    2. Investment or business travel by executives or directors

For the latest information, see:

Brazil

Brazilian Investor Visa (VIPER)

  • Eligibility: For foreign investors making a significant investment in a Brazilian company, typically as an individual or as a business.

  • Benefits: Permanent residency, family reunification, and business development opportunities.

Brazilian Scientific Researcher Visa

  • Eligibility: For foreign researchers collaborating with Brazilian institutions on scientific projects.

  • Benefits: Permission to work in Brazil for the duration of the research project.

For the latest information, see:

Mexico

Temporary Resident Visa for Remunerated Work (Visa de Residente Temporal por Razones de Trabajo Remunerado)

  • Eligibility: Requires a job offer from a Mexican employer, usually in a specialized or high-demand field.

  • Benefits: Permission to work and reside in Mexico temporarily, with extension opportunities.

Temporary Resident Visa for Investors

  • Eligibility: British nationals and other foreign nationals who plan to stay in Mexico for more than six months, without the purpose to perform lucrative activities or to receive remuneration in Mexico, and have Invested in Mexican companies, they can apply for a Temporary Resident Visa.

Specialized Professionals and Technicians Program (Programa de Profesionistas y Técnicos Especializados)

  • Eligibility: For foreign professionals and technicians with specialized skills needed in Mexico.

  • Benefits: Fast-track processing, family reunification, and potential for permanent residency.

For the latest information, see:

Colombia

Resident Investor’s Visa

  • Eligibility: For a foreign national who makes a direct foreign investment in his/her own name, in accordance with the International Investments Statute and other conforming rules

  • Applicants must invest 100 times the official Colombian monthly minimum wage in a new or existing business in the country.

  • Benefits: Permission to work and live in Colombia, with family reunification options.

Colombia Entrepreneur Visa

  • Eligibility: For foreign entrepreneurs starting new businesses in Colombia.

  • Benefits: Support for start-ups, access to business networks, and streamlined visa processing.

For the latest information, see:

Argentina

Work Visa

  • Eligibility: Requires a job offer from an Argentine employer in a specialized field.

  • Benefits: Permission to work and live in Argentina temporarily, with extension possibilities.

Entrepreneur Visa

  • Eligibility: For foreign entrepreneurs launching new businesses in Argentina.

  • Benefits: Support for start-ups, access to funding and networks, and a streamlined visa process.

Active Investor Visa

  • Eligibility: for foreign investors who make a substantial investment into an Argentine business and manage it themselves. The visa is valid for one year and can be renewed for three years.

Eligibility Criteria Generally Include:

  • Qualifications: Often require a university degree or equivalent professional credentials.

  • Job Offer or Business Plan: Many programs require a job offer from a local employer or a business plan for entrepreneurs.

  • Investment: Some countries mandate a minimum investment amount for investor or entrepreneur visas.

  • Endorsement or Sponsorship: Depending on the program, applicants may need local endorsement or employer sponsorship.

For the latest information, see:

Europe

Key countries in Europe with Global Talent-Based Visas:

United Kingdom

Global Talent Visa:

  • Eligibility: Open to leaders or potential leaders in science, humanities, engineering, the arts, and digital technology. Applicants must be endorsed by a recognized UK endorsing body.
  • Benefits: Fast-track to settlement, flexibility in job changes, and opportunities for extension.

Innovator Visa:

  • Eligibility: For experienced entrepreneurs with an innovative business idea, endorsed by an approved endorsing body.
  • Benefits: Lengthy stay for years, with the possibility of extension, leading to residency.

1. Eligibility Criteria:

The Global Talent visa is open to individuals who are recognized as leaders or potential leaders in the fields of:
  • Science: Including natural sciences, life sciences, medical science, and engineering.
  • Humanities: Including arts, humanities, social sciences, and creative industries.
  • Engineering: Including mathematics, architecture, and computing.

2. Application Process:

The application process for the Global Talent visa involves several stages:
  • Endorsement: Applicants must first obtain an endorsement from a recognized endorsing body in the UK. There are several endorsing bodies covering different fields, such as the Royal Society, the Arts Council England, and Tech Nation, among others.
  • Visa Application: Once endorsed, applicants can apply for the visa online from outside the UK. They must provide evidence of their endorsement and meet other eligibility requirements.
  • Biometric Residence Permit: If the visa application is successful, applicants receive a Biometric Residence Permit (BRP) upon arrival in the UK, which confirms their immigration status and entitlements.

3. Benefits of the Global Talent Visa:

  • Flexibility: Holders of the Global Talent visa can work in any role and change employers without needing to be sponsored.
  • Fast-track to Settlement: Applicants endorsed under the Global Talent visa route can apply for settlement (indefinite leave to remain) after three years if they meet certain criteria.
  • Dependents: Visa holders can bring their dependents (spouse/partner and children under 18) to the UK, and they have the right to work and study.
  • Public Funds: Global Talent visa holders are eligible to access public funds, such as healthcare through the National Health Service (NHS).

4. Endorsing Bodies:

  • The Royal Society: For scientists and researchers.
  • Tech Nation: For digital technology experts and entrepreneurs.
  • Arts Council England: For artists, musicians, and other creative professionals.
  • Royal Academy of Engineering: For engineers and those in the engineering profession.

For the latest information, please visit:

Sweden

Temporary Work Permit (“Arbetsmarknadens behov”):

  • Eligibility: Based on a job offer from a Swedish employer that cannot be filled by a Swedish or EU/EEA citizen.

  • Benefits: Permission to work and reside temporarily in Sweden.

Residence Permit

Definition: For foreign nationals to seek employment or start a business in Sweden.

Eligibility:

  • Completed studies corresponding to an advanced level degree

  • Plan to seek employment or to start your own business

  • Be able to financially support yourself during processing, including return travel

  • Comprehensive health insurance valid for care in Sweden

  • A valid passport for the entire period that you intend to be in Sweden

  • Must be currently located outside of Sweden.

For the latest information, please visit:

Switzerland

Swiss Permit L (Short-Term Residence Permit):

  • Eligibility: For highly qualified specialists and skilled workers from non-EU/EFTA countries, with a job offer from a Swiss employer.

  • Benefits: Permission to work and reside temporarily in Switzerland.

Swiss Permit B (Residence Permit):

  • Eligibility: For long-term residence, typically requiring continuous employment and integration into Swiss society.

For the latest information, please visit:

France

Talent Passport (“Passport Talent”):

  • Eligibility: Includes several categories such as highly skilled workers, researchers, international graduates of French institutions, and investors.

  • Benefits: Streamlined application process, family reunification rights, and flexibility in job changes.

For the latest information, please visit:

Netherlands

Highly Skilled Migrant Program (“Kennismigrant”):

  • Eligibility: Job offer from a recognized Dutch employer, meeting specific salary thresholds. Applicants must possess specific skills or expertise.

  • Benefits: Accelerated residency procedures, family reunification rights, and permission for a partner to work.

For the latest information, please visit:

Denmark

Pay Limit Scheme:

  • Eligibility: Requires a job offer with a salary above a specified threshold, typically reserved for highly skilled professionals.

  • Benefits: Fast-track to permanent residency, family reunification rights, and favorable conditions for skilled workers.

For the latest information, please visit:

Germany

Blue Card (EU Blue Card):

  • Eligibility: Requires a university degree and a job offer in a highly skilled occupation with a minimum salary threshold. Applicants must demonstrate that their qualifications match the job profile.

  • Benefits: Fast-track to permanent residency, family reunification rights, and mobility within the EU.

Researcher Visa:

  • Eligibility: For researchers holding a research contract or hosting agreement with a recognized German research institution.

  • Benefits: Permission to stay for the duration of the research project, with opportunities for extension.

For the latest information, please visit:

South Asia

Singapore

1. Employment Pass (EP)

The Employment Pass is the main type of work visa for foreign professionals, managers, executives, and specialists who wish to work in Singapore.

Eligibility Criteria for Employment Pass:

  • Salary Requirement: The applicant must earn a fixed monthly salary above a certain threshold (which varies depending on qualifications and experience).

  • Educational Qualifications: Generally, applicants should have a good university degree, professional qualifications, or relevant work experience.

  • Skills and Experience: The applicant must possess specialized skills and experience relevant to the job offered in Singapore.

  • Employer Sponsorship: A Singaporean employer must sponsor the EP application.

2. Personalized Employment Pass (PEP)

The Personalized Employment Pass is targeted at high-earning existing EP holders and overseas foreign professionals. It offers greater flexibility than the standard EP.

Eligibility Criteria for Personalized Employment Pass:

  • EP Holder: Applicants must already hold an Employment Pass.

  • Salary Requirement: Higher minimum salary requirement than the EP.

  • Flexibility: Allows holders greater flexibility to switch employers without reapplying for a new pass.

  • Duration: Initially issued for up to 3 years and renewable thereafter.

3. EntrePass (Entrepreneur Pass)

The EntrePass is for foreign entrepreneurs who wish to start and operate a business in Singapore.

Eligibility Criteria for EntrePass:

  • Business Proposal: Applicants must submit a detailed business plan that demonstrates innovation, potential economic impact, and scalability.

  • Entrepreneurial Background: Applicants should have a track record of successful entrepreneurial experience or relevant skills.

  • Investment: A minimum amount of investment in the proposed business may be required.

  • Approval: The business idea must be evaluated and approved by Enterprise Singapore.

4. Tech.Pass

Tech.Pass is a new visa introduced to attract top-tier foreign talent in the technology sector to Singapore. It aims to strengthen Singapore’s position as a global tech hub.

Eligibility Criteria for Tech.Pass:

  • Tech Talent: Applicants must have significant experience in leading tech companies or startups, or have a proven track record of contributing to the tech ecosystem.

  • Employment Flexibility: Allows holders to work in multiple companies, start their own businesses, or be an investor or director in Singapore.

  • Industry Endorsement: Applicants must be endorsed by recognized Singaporean tech companies or industry partners.

For the latest information, please visit:

Thailand

Long-Term Resident “Smart Visa” (LTR Visa):

1. Eligibility Criteria:

The Smart Visa is available to individuals in the following categories:

  • Talent (T) Category: Includes experts, researchers, and individuals working in technology-driven industries (such as digital technology, robotics, and aviation).

  • Investor (I) Category: Targets investors who contribute to Thailand’s strategic industries.

  • Executive (E) Category: Aimed at high-level executives working in Thai-based companies, particularly in targeted industries.

  • Start-up (S) Category: For entrepreneurs starting businesses in technology or innovation-driven industries.

2. Key Requirements:

  • Qualification: Applicants must have specialized skills, qualifications, or experience relevant to their field of expertise.

  • Employment or Investment: Applicants must be employed by a qualified company or institution in Thailand (for Talent and Executive categories), make a significant investment in a Thai business (for Investor category), or be launching a start-up in a qualifying industry (for Start-up category).

  • Salary or Investment Threshold: Specific salary thresholds or investment amounts apply depending on the category.

3. Benefits:

  • Long-Term Stay: Initially valid for up to 4 years, with the option to renew without having to leave Thailand.

  • Work Authorization: Holders are permitted to work in Thailand without the need for a work permit.

  • Family Accompaniment: Allows spouses and children to accompany the visa holder and access education and healthcare services in Thailand.

  • No Work Permit Required: Smart Visa holders are exempt from the usual work permit requirement, simplifying employment procedures.

For the latest information, please visit:

India

1. Employment Visa (E Visa)

The Employment Visa in India is granted to foreign nationals coming to India for employment, subject to specific conditions and eligibility criteria. While not specifically labeled as a global talent visa, it is the primary visa category for skilled professionals working in India.

Eligibility Criteria for Employment Visa:

  • Employment Offer: Applicants must have a confirmed job offer from an Indian employer.

  • Qualifications: Applicants must possess the qualifications and experience required for the position.

  • Salary Requirement: Employers must demonstrate that the salary offered to the foreign employee meets certain thresholds set by Indian authorities.

  • Sector-Specific Requirements: Some sectors may have additional requirements or restrictions.

2. Business Visa (B Visa)

The Business Visa is for foreign nationals visiting India for business purposes, including meetings, conferences, and exploring business opportunities. While not strictly a global talent visa, it can be utilized by entrepreneurs and business professionals seeking to engage with Indian businesses.

Eligibility Criteria for Business Visa:

  • Business Activities: Applicants must demonstrate that their visit is solely for business purposes.

  • Financial Standing: Applicants must have sufficient funds to cover their stay in India.

  • Invitation Letter: In some cases, an invitation letter from an Indian business partner or organization may be required.

3. Research Visa

India offers a Research Visa for foreign researchers, scientists, scholars, and professors conducting research or teaching at recognized Indian institutions. This visa is relevant for individuals with exceptional academic or research credentials.

Eligibility Criteria for Research Visa:

  • Research or Teaching Assignment: Applicants must have a research or teaching assignment at a recognized Indian institution.

  • Sponsorship: A sponsoring institution in India must endorse the visa application.

  • Duration: The visa is granted for the duration of the research assignment or academic tenure.

4. Startup Visa

India has introduced a Startup Visa aimed at foreign entrepreneurs who wish to establish innovative businesses in the country. This initiative supports the Indian government’s efforts to promote entrepreneurship and innovation.

Eligibility Criteria for Startup Visa:

  • Innovative Business: Applicants must have a viable business idea or startup venture that demonstrates innovation and potential for growth.

  • Endorsement: The startup must be endorsed by a recognized incubator or accelerator in India.

  • Funding Requirement: Applicants may need to demonstrate sufficient funding to support their startup in India.

For the latest information, please visit:

Australia

1. Global Talent Visa

  • Eligibility:
    • Nomination by an Australian citizen, permanent resident, eligible NZ citizen, or Australian organization.
    • Internationally recognized record of exceptional achievement in target sectors (e.g., resources, agtech, energy, health, digitech).
    • Likely to earn above significant salary or remuneration threshold.
    • Generally under 55 years old.

2. Distinguished Talent Visa

  • Eligibility:
    • Nomination by an Australian citizen, permanent resident, eligible NZ citizen, or Australian organization.
    • Internationally recognized record of exceptional achievement in a profession, sport, the arts, or academia and research.
    • Generally under 55 years old.

3. Business Talent (Permanent) Visa

  • Eligibility:
    • Significant Business History Stream: Significant net assets threshold and annual turnover.
    • Venture Capital Entrepreneur Stream: Significant venture capital funding.

4. Temporary Skill Shortage Visa

  • Eligibility:
    • Sponsored by an approved business.
    • Occupation on the list of eligible skilled occupations.
    • Necessary skills and English proficiency.

5. Employer Nomination Scheme

  • Eligibility:
    • Nominated by an Australian employer.
    • Required skills and qualifications.
    • Under 45 years old.
    • English proficiency.

6. Skilled Independent Visa

  • Eligibility:
    • Score at least 65 points on the points test.
    • Occupation on the relevant skilled occupation list.
    • Suitable skills assessment.

For the latest information, please visit:

East Asia

Japan

1. Highly Skilled Professional Visa (HSP Visa)

  • Eligibility Criteria:
    • Points-Based System: Applicants are evaluated based on a points-based system that considers factors such as academic background, work experience, salary level, and other qualifications.
    • Qualification Categories: Points are awarded in categories such as academic background, professional experience, salary level, research achievements, and Japanese language proficiency.
    • Minimum Points Requirement: Applicants must score a minimum number of points to qualify for the HSP Visa.
  • Benefits:
    • Long-term stay period (up to 5 years initially).
    • Fast-track residence procedures, including simplified visa applications and permission for multiple re-entry.
    • Permission for spouse and dependent family members to work in Japan.

2. Highly Skilled Professional Visa with Points-Based Preferential Immigration Treatment

This category provides additional benefits and preferential treatment to highly skilled professionals who score higher on the points-based evaluation system.
  • Additional Benefits:
    • Preferential processing of visa applications.
    • Permission for indefinite residence status after a certain period.
    • Eligibility to sponsor parents and domestic workers.
    • Special provisions for tax treatment, pension, and social security.
  • Eligibility Requirements
    • Academic Background: Holders of advanced degrees or professional qualifications.
    • Work Experience: Extensive professional experience in a high-demand field.
    • Salary Level: Employed in Japan with a minimum salary threshold.
    • Points-Based Evaluation: Achieve a minimum score based on factors such as academic background, work experience, salary, and other relevant qualifications.
    • Employer Sponsorship: Job offer or sponsorship from a Japanese employer.

For the latest information, please visit:

South Korea

1. E-7 Visa (Specific Occupation)

Definition: For foreign nationals for employment by Korean companies in specific occupations that require specialized skills or knowledge.
  • Eligibility:
    • Job Offer: Job offer from a Korean employer in one of the specified occupations.
    • Qualifications and experience required for the specific occupation.
    • Employer Sponsorship: The Korean employer must sponsor the visa application and provide necessary documentation.
    • Point System: Some occupations under the E-7 visa category are subject to a points-based system, where applicants must score a minimum number of points based on factors such as education, work experience, Korean language proficiency, and age.

2. D-8 Visa (Corporate Investment/Entrepreneurship)

  • Eligibility:
    • Investment Amount: Applicants must invest significant funds into a Korean business or start-up.
    • Business Plan: Outlining their investment and business activities.
    • Job Creation: The business must demonstrate potential to create jobs for Korean nationals.

3. Startup/Investor/Trader Visa (D-8 or D-9):

  • For foreign entrepreneurs who wish to establish and manage innovative businesses or engage in profit-making business such aa trading.

4. Technological Guidance Visa (E-4):

  • People in public or private organizations who offer special technology or expertise in natural sciences/high-technology fields, or people who offer special technology or expertise not available in Korea.

5. Researcher Visa (E-3):

  • For foreign researchers, scientists, and professors conducting research activities at Korean universities or research institutes.

6. F-5 Visa (Permanent Residence)

  • Eligibility:
    • Residency Period: Applicants must have resided in South Korea for a minimum continuous period (usually 5 years).
    • Contribution to Korea: Applicants must demonstrate contributions to Korean society or the economy.
    • Financial Stability: Applicants must show financial stability and a clean criminal record.

For the latest information, please visit:

Taiwan

1. Employment Gold Card

A special visa and residency permit designed to attract foreign professionals, entrepreneurs, and scholars to Taiwan.

Eligibility Criteria for Employment Gold Card:

  • Qualifications: Applicants must meet one or more of the following criteria:

    • Have specialized skills, professional qualifications, or academic achievements.

    • Hold an employment offer or have a business plan in Taiwan.

    • Be recommended by a Taiwanese science and technology park or incubator.

    • Be a startup founder or investor.

  • Points System: Applicants are evaluated based on a points system that considers factors such as salary, educational background, work experience, investment amount, and contribution to Taiwan’s economy or society.

  • Benefits: The Employment Gold Card provides several benefits, including:

    • Work and residence permits consolidated into one card.

    • Preferential tax treatment.

    • Extended length of stay.

    • Family members can accompany the applicant and obtain residency rights.

2. Entrepreneur Visa (Investment Visa)

A visa for foreign nationals who wish to start a business or invest in Taiwan.

Eligibility Criteria for Entrepreneur Visa:

  • Business Plan: Applicants must submit a viable business plan demonstrating innovation, economic impact, and job creation potential.

  • Investment Requirement: Applicants may need to invest a certain amount of capital in their proposed business venture in Taiwan.

  • Evaluation: The business plan and investment proposal are evaluated by Taiwanese authorities to determine eligibility for the visa.

3. Other Relevant Visa Categories

  • Work Visa (Employment Visa): For foreign nationals employed by Taiwanese companies, requiring a job offer from a Taiwanese employer.

  • Research Visa: For foreign researchers, scientists, and scholars conducting research activities in Taiwan.

  • Special Talent Visa: For individuals with exceptional talents in arts, culture, sports, or other fields, recognized by Taiwanese authorities.

For the latest information, please visit:

Middle East

Dubai

Golden Visa

Residency visa which enables foreign nationals to live, work or study in the UAE with categories for scientists, researchers, senior scholars, elite specialists in STEM fields and education and for skilled professionals.

Benefits:

  • an entry visa for six months with multiple entries to proceed with residence issuance

  • a long-term, renewable residence visa valid for years

  • Sponsorship not needed

  • the ability to stay outside the UAE for more than six months to keep residence visa valid

  • the ability to sponsor family members, including spouses and children regardless of ages

  • the ability to sponsor unlimited number of domestic helpers

  • the permit for family members to stay in the UAE until the end of their permit duration, if the primary holder of the Golden visa passes away

For the latest information, please visit:

Israel

1. Hi-Tech Visa (HIT Visa)

This visa is designed to attract skilled tech workers to Israel’s thriving tech industry.

Criteria:

  • The applicant must be employed by an Israeli company in a high-tech field.

  • The company must be approved as a high-tech company by the Israeli Innovation Authority.

  • The applicant must have relevant professional experience and skills in a high-tech domain.

  • The visa is initially granted for up to 24 months and can be extended.

2. Innovation Visas (Startup Visa)

This visa is aimed at encouraging entrepreneurs and innovators to establish startups in Israel.

Criteria:

  • The applicant must present an innovative business plan.

  • The startup idea should be unique and have the potential to make a significant impact.

  • The applicant must be accepted into a recognized incubator program in Israel.

  • The visa is initially granted for up to 24 months and can be extended if the business shows progress.

3. Academic Visa

This visa is for researchers and academics who wish to work or collaborate with Israeli academic institutions.

Criteria:

  • The applicant must have an invitation or employment offer from an accredited Israeli academic institution.

  • The applicant should have significant academic achievements and expertise in their field.

  • The visa duration typically aligns with the length of the academic project or contract.

4. Special Expert Visa

This visa targets individuals with unique skills or expertise that are in high demand in Israel.

Criteria:

  • The applicant must have a job offer from an Israeli company.

  • The applicant’s skills or expertise should be recognized as scarce or highly valuable in Israel.

  • The visa is granted based on the recommendation of relevant governmental authorities or industry leaders.

For the latest information, please visit:

South Africa

The Critical Skills Work Visa

A visa issued in accordance with the critical skills list developed in conjunction with the occupations in high demand and the scarce skills lists of the Department of Higher Education and Training (DHET).

Eligibility:

  • Proof that the applicant falls within the critical skills category by specifically indicating the occupation/critical skill for which the application is being made. The occupation/critical skill must be on the critical skills list.

  • Proof of evaluation of the foreign qualification by SAQA and translated by a sworn translator into one of the official languages of the republic.

  • Proof of application for a certificate of registration with the professional body, council or board recognized by SAQA in terms of section 13(1)(i) of the national qualifications framework act.

  • A confirmation, in writing, from the professional body, council or board recognized by saqa in terms of section 13(1)(0 of the national qualifications framework act, or any relevant government department confirming the skills or qualifications of the applicant and appropriate post qualification experience, (if not attached, VFS official to check directive 22 of 2014)

  • Please see the government website for all other criteria not based on talent.

For the latest information, please visit:

There may be additional or special provisions beyond the information listed above.