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The Daily Insight

What are the requirements for business permit?

Author

Olivia Shea

Updated on May 03, 2026

Mayor’s Permit (Occupational)

  • Completely filled-up Application form for New Business (2 copies, Notarized)
  • Original Barangay Business Clearance.
  • DTI Registration (Single Proprietor)
  • SEC Registration (Corporation)
  • Lessor’s Permit (If Renting)
  • Tax Declaration of Property (If Owned)

Do you need a business license in South Africa?

South African legislation stipulates that all businesses should have a valid trading licence before trading. According to Section 1 of the Business Act 71 of 1991, businesses that require trading licences include: Food establishments where customers can eat and get takeaways or perishable foodstuff.

How much is a business visa in South Africa?

Visa Fees

CategoryDHA Application FeeVFS Service Fee
Business Visa15201350
Premium Lounge (Optional Service)500

How much is a permit in South Africa?

The next step is the question of: How much does a South African work permit cost? The Government application fee is R1,520 for all work visa categories.

How do I apply for a business license in South Africa?

Steps on how to apply for a Business License

  1. Complete a business license application form (L1) which is available from the 5th Floor, Nedbank Building, Cnr Breda street & Bergriver Boulevard, Paarl.
  2. The application must be completed and submitted to the License Officer.
  3. Payment of Fee.
  4. Circulation for Comments.

How do I register my business permit online?

Register your business name in the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI)

  1. Prepare your business name.
  2. Confirm the availability of your business name.
  3. Fill up the online registration form.
  4. Pay the registration fee.
  5. Download your certificate.

Do I need to register my small business in South Africa?

​For every new business established, you are required to register with your local SARS office to obtain an income tax reference number. Registration must be done within 60 days after starting operations by completing an IT77 form, available at your local SARS office or from the SARS website.

What is a business permit in South Africa?

This is a permit issued to foreigners who intend to establish or invest in a business in South Africa in which they may be employed. 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.

Where can I get a business permit?

Go to the Business Permit and Licensing Office located within the premises of the city/municipal hall having jurisdiction over your business address. Secure and fill out the application form. The form is available on-site, or you can download it in advance from the LGU’s website.

How many types of permits are there in South Africa?

South Africa has four different categories of work visas: a general work visa; a critical skills visa (which combines the older categories of ‘exceptional skills’ and ‘quota’ work visas); intra-company transfer visas, where for example an employee of a multi-national company is transferred to work in South Africa; and …

How do I get a business permit in South Africa?

Qualifying for a business permit. Applicants will require: From the existing business prospective. An investment amount of 5 million rand has been made, which must be made from funds introduced from abroad; submitted certified proof of investment in the business in respect of the preceding. financial year;

When to apply for a South African business visa?

A South African business visa should be applied for by those seeking to own and work in their own business.

What are the requirements to open a business in South Africa?

Proof that at least 60% citizens or permanent residents are permanently employed invarious positions directly in the operations of the business; Proof of registration with the relevant professional body, council or board recognisedby SAQA in terms of section 13 (1) (i) of the National Qualifications Framework Act,where applicable;

How do I apply for permanent residency in South Africa?

This can be made in most cases in your country of residence prior to your arrival in South Africa. Once in receipt of the temporary residency business visa, permanent residency (business permit) can then be applied for.