Moving People. Enabling Business.
In an increasingly connected world, the ability to move talent across borders is a strategic advantage. Whether you are relocating a senior executive, building out a multinational workforce, or navigating the complexities of South African immigration law, our Global Mobility & Immigration practice provides the legal expertise to keep your people and your business moving.
Our Practice
We advise corporate clients, multinationals, and individuals on the full spectrum of immigration and mobility matters. Combining deep knowledge of South African immigration law with an understanding of international mobility frameworks, we deliver practical, commercially-minded solutions that reduce risk and ensure compliance.
Our team works closely with our Corporate & Commercial, Employment, and Tax departments to provide seamlessly integrated advice that accounts for the broader legal and commercial implications of cross-border movement.
What We Do
Corporate Immigration
We assist businesses of all sizes in securing the visas, permits, and authorisations needed to deploy staff in South Africa and across the region. This includes intra-company transfers, critical skills applications, and corporate visa programmes for larger workforces.
Work Visas & Permits
We manage the end-to-end process for work visa and permit applications, including:
- Critical Skills Work Visas
- General Work Visas
- Intra-Company Transfer Visas
- Business Visas
- Exceptional Skills and Quota Permits
Permanent Residency
We guide individuals and families through the permanent residency application process, advising on eligibility, documentation, and strategy to achieve the best possible outcome.
Accompanying Relatives & Family Visas
Relocating an employee is often a family decision. We assist with spousal, partner, and dependent visas to ensure entire families are supported through the transition.
Compliance Audits & Risk Management
Immigration non-compliance carries serious consequences for businesses. We conduct immigration compliance audits, identify areas of exposure, and implement robust internal policies to protect your organisation.
Global Mobility Programme Support
For multinational companies managing large-scale workforce mobility, we provide ongoing programme management support, including policy advice, assignee support, and coordination with our international affiliate network spanning Southern Africa, Europe, and North America.
Citizenship & Naturalisation
We advise on pathways to South African citizenship, including by naturalisation and by descent, and assist clients in compiling and submitting the required applications.
Why Shepstone & Wylie?
With over 130 years of legal excellence and offices in Durban, Johannesburg, Cape Town, Pietermaritzburg, and Richards Bay, we are uniquely positioned to serve clients across South Africa and beyond. Our international affiliations extend our reach into key markets in Europe and North America, giving our clients access to coordinated, cross-border legal support.
We understand that immigration matters are often time-sensitive and deeply personal. Our team is committed to responsiveness, transparency, and delivering outcomes that align with your business objectives and individual circumstances.
Get in Touch
Whether you have an urgent visa application or are planning a long-term global mobility strategy, we are here to help.
Contact our Global Mobility & Immigration team today: gmi@wylie.co.za
