Work permit vs visitor visa: What South Africans should know before travelling

When planning international travel from South Africa, individuals must understand the distinct regulations and requirements of their destination country, especially the difference between a work permit and a visitor visa.

Travellers must check if their visa allows work and what type of work. Many countries protect local jobs, and unauthorised work can lead to fines, deportation, and future travel bans.

South African actress Lerato Nxumalo is currently facing criticism on Twitter after an unknown user reported her to the migration authorities. This backlash stems from allegations that Nxumalo travelled to Sweden and worked as a packer in a clothing store, earning R20,000.

This was triggered after blogger Musa Khawula revealed the identity of her husband, whom the actress had reportedly kept hidden, even on her wedding day. Nxumalo subsequently sued Khawula for invasion of privacy.

Following Khawula's public sharing of an email from Nxumalo's lawyer indicating legal action, a user claiming to know Nxumalo's past alleged that she had engaged in illegal activities in Sweden. This sparked a flurry of comments detailing various allegations against Nxumalo, though she has yet to respond publicly.

Non-EU citizens seeking employment in Sweden generally need a work permit. A job offer is a prerequisite for obtaining this permit, and entry into Sweden is not permitted until the permit has been granted. For employment lasting under three months, citizens of some countries are required to have both a work permit and a Schengen visa. This information is consistent with statements from the Swedish embassy regarding Sweden and South Africa.

To work in Sweden for longer than three months, whether starting a business, running an existing one, or becoming a part-owner of a company, you must possess a residence permit. Entry into Sweden is not permitted until this permit has been issued.

 As a self-employed individual, you are prohibited from accepting employment with any employer. You must have a working Visa to work in Sweden’

However, there's an exception: the Migration Agency states that individuals from certain occupational groups can work in Sweden without a work permit. 

• Employee in an international group who will be participating in skills development – maximum of three months in total.
• Participant in a business deal – maximum of three months in total.
• Diplomatic and consular officials and their family and staff.
• Persons on temporary assignment for radio or TV – maximum of one month.
• Artists, technicians, and other tour staff – maximum of 14 days, at the invitation of an established arranger.
• Professional athletes and officials – a maximum of three months in total.
• Train personnel and lorry drivers.
• Representatives working temporarily in Sweden.
• Caregiver for a visitor – maximum of three months.
• Temporary work in connection with construction.
• Journalists working temporarily in Sweden.

IOL