The Department of Home Affairs has released an updated critical skills list for South Africa, identifying key areas where skilled workers are in short supply. This revised list, which includes 39 newly added skills, is crucial for individuals applying for critical skills work visas or permanent residence permits. It highlights the skills needed to boost the country’s workforce and address shortages in various industries.
The critical skills list falls under South Africa’s Immigration Act and serves as a guideline for granting work visas or permanent residence permits to foreign nationals who possess the qualifications and expertise required in fields where there is a notable shortage in the country.
Key Additions to the Critical Skills List
This update places a significant emphasis on medical and health-related professions, areas that are experiencing major skill shortages in South Africa. With the healthcare sector under strain, the inclusion of more specialized medical professionals on the critical skills list aims to address these gaps and improve healthcare delivery across the country.
Some of the key medical and healthcare professions added to the critical skills list include:
- Dentists specializing in community dentistry, oral pathology, and maxillofacial surgery.
- Medical Practitioners specializing in anesthesiology, cardiothoracic surgery, clinical pharmacology, public health, and pediatrics.
- Pharmacists with expertise in industrial pharmaceuticals.
- Registered Nurses including critical care nurses, midwives, and childcare nurses.
Earlier this year, the Democratic Alliance (DA) highlighted the shortage of medical professionals in the country and submitted recommendations to the Minister of Home Affairs, urging an expansion of the critical skills list. Their input, along with other public concerns, led to the inclusion of health professionals in the updated list.
In addition to healthcare professionals, other key skills that remain in demand include educators in the fields of mathematics and science. There is an ongoing shortage of qualified teachers for these critical subjects, which is a concern for South Africa’s education system and its long-term development.
In-Demand Skills for 2022
The following skills continue to be in high demand across South Africa, providing opportunities for foreign nationals seeking to fill critical roles:
Healthcare Professions:
- Medical Practitioners (e.g., anesthesiologists, cardiothoracic surgeons)
- Dentists
- Pharmacists (including industrial pharmaceutical expertise)
- Registered Nurses (critical care, midwives)
Engineering & Technology:
- Aeronautical Engineer
- Mechanical Engineer
- Civil Engineer
- Software Developer
- Systems Engineer
Education & Research:
- FET Phase School Teacher (Grades 10-12)
- Nurse Educator
- Research and Development Manager
- Physicist
- Economist
Other Key Roles:
- Actuary
- External Auditor
- Architect
- ICT System Analyst
- Biotechnologist
Conclusion
The updated critical skills list highlights the growing demand for specialized professionals across various sectors, particularly healthcare and education. By recognizing and addressing these shortages, South Africa aims to attract skilled foreign workers who can contribute to the country’s growth. For businesses, this presents an opportunity to fill critical roles and enhance productivity, while foreign professionals gain access to work visas and permanent residence opportunities.
