Foreigners who are contemplating investing in the South African economy by establishing a business or by investing in an existing business in the country must apply for a business permit. As an applicant, you will be required to invest a prescribed financial capital contribution.

To invest in or open a business in South Africa you will need to, along with Form DHA-1738, submit a certificate issued by a chartered accountant registered with the South African Institute of Chartered Accountants to the effect that you have:

• Form DHA 1738
• Valid passport + copy
• Valid Swiss permit + copy
• Medical and radiology reports
• Proof of payment for visa fees : 160 CHF
• A police clearance certificate from each country where you resided since the age of 18 years, including the Republic of South Africa ( police report to be apostille)
• A yellow fever vaccination certificate if you have travelled or intend travelling through a yellow fever endemic area
• Letter of recommendation from the Department of Trade and Industry regarding:
• Feasibility of the business and
• Contribution to the national interest of the Republic
• Financial Statements in respect of the preceding financial year
• Proof of investment
• A certificate issued by a chartered accountant registered with the South African Institute of Chartered accountants or a professional accountant registered with the South African Institute of Professional Accountants to the effect that:
• at least an amount in cash to be invested in the Republic as determined from time to time by the Minister, after consultation with the Minister of Trade and Industry, by notice in the gazette, is available, or
• At least an amount in cash and a capital contribution as determined from time to time by the Minister, after consultation with the Minister of Trade and Industry, by notice in the gazette, is available
• An undertaking to register with
• A South African Revenue Service
• Unemployment insurance Fund
• Compensation Fund for Occupational Injuries and Diseases
• Companies and Intellectual Properties Commission where legally required
• Relevant professional body, board or council recognised by SAQA in terms of section 13(1)(i) of the National Qualification Framework Act where applicable

Turnaround Time: up to 8 weeks as from when the complete application is lodged at the Consulate