Invitation to Breakfast Session on the Trusted Employer Scheme

Event Details

The British Chamber of Business in Southern Africa cordially invites you to participate in an informative breakfast session focused on the Trusted Employer Scheme, designed to enhance your understanding and maximise opportunities for your business.

We are pleased to extend an invitation to you for an insightful breakfast session hosted by SwissCham, in collaboration with the British Chamber of Business in Southern Africa, and the Austrian Business Chamber. This event, generously sponsored by Xpatweb, a member of SwissCham & BCB Africa, will focus on the Trusted Employer Scheme (TES) and its implications for businesses operating in South Africa.

As you may be aware, South Africa's work visa system has faced systematic challenges. In response, the Department of Home Affairs launched the pilot phase of the Trusted Employer Scheme on 1 March 2024. This initiative requires participating companies to meet specific criteria, including capital investment, the facilitation of graduate development programmes, the employment of a minimum of 60% South African nationals, and maintaining good standing with relevant government departments. Nearly a year into its implementation, the Scheme has been widely recognised as a significant success.

The second round for admitting new corporate participants to the Scheme is anticipated to be gazetted in the first quarter of 2025. Companies will again be required to meet the established criteria, which will unlock substantial benefits in securing visas for admitted employers.

During this session, we will explore:

The various criteria for qualifying for the Trusted Employer Scheme
An in-depth discussion on the benefits of the Scheme in relation to the points-based system
Insights into the critical skills work visa
Information on permanent residency options
Provisions for accompanying family members
Statistics on how companies already part of the Scheme are reaping the benefits

Event Details:

Date: Wednesday, 26th February 2025

Time: 08:00 for 08:30 (Registration opens at 07:30)

Venue: Xpatweb Offices, 17 Eaton Avenue, Bryanston

Cost: Members: Free of charge / Non-Members: R 200 + VAT

RSVP: By Friday, 21st February 2025. Registration is required for catering purposes.

To reserve your seat, please RSVP using the GLUEUP link or by contacting us at info@bcbafrica.com. For any inquiries, please direct them to the same email address.

Coffee, tea, and light breakfast snacks will be served.

We look forward to your participation in what promises to be an enlightening discussion on the Trusted Employer Scheme and its benefits for businesses in South Africa.

Warm regards,

BCB Africa team

Agenda

Speakers

Marisa Jacobs
Managing Director of Xpatweb
https://www.linkedin.com/in/marisa-jacobs-71899b12/?originalSubdomain=za
Marisa Jacobs is the Managing Director of Xpatweb, South Africa's leading work permit consultancy. With a specialised focus on work permits for employers with large expatriate teams, she expertly handles complex cases involving short-term employment service visas, unique dispensations, and special work permit waivers.

As an industry authority, Marisa has played a key role in shaping South Africa’s work visa landscape. Her Critical Skills Survey was pivotal in the development of the 2021 Critical Skills List. She is an active participant in business policy discussions, serving on both BUSA and NEDLAC. Marisa oversees the daily operations of the firm, ensuring the highest level of service and compliance.

Beyond work visas, Marisa is renowned for her comprehensive approach to expatriate management. She pioneered the Immigration Tracker, a solution now utilized by South Africa's largest employers of expatriates. Her expertise encompasses managing confidential payrolls, navigating complex tax directives and rulings from SARS, securing Reserve Bank clearances, and facilitating efficient banking solutions for expatriates. Marisa’s strong relationships with senior immigration officials and global executives underscore her commitment to providing innovative, solutions-driven strategies for her clients.
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Sponsors and Partners

Organiser

SwissCham Southern Africa – South Africa Chapter
The SwissCham Southern Africa – South Africa Chapter (SCSA-SAC) was established in 2007 during the official visit of Switzerland's Federal Councillor, HE Doris Leuthard. It formally launched in Johannesburg in April 2008 to strengthen Swiss enterprises' presence in the growing South African market.

SCSA-SAC is an apolitical, non-profit organization dedicated to enhancing economic, commercial, and cultural ties between Switzerland and Southern Africa. It serves as the South African arm of the bilateral Chamber of Commerce and Industry and is the official chapter for the entire country.

With over 100 years of Swiss business presence in South Africa, SCSA-SAC builds on the legacy of the Swiss Business Council (SBC), offering Swiss SMEs access to a vast network and expertise. South Africa's dynamic market presents unique business opportunities, supported by the country's infrastructure and growth potential.

The chapter collaborates closely with the Swiss Embassy, Swiss Business Hub in Pretoria, and Swiss Global Enterprise, ensuring its continued success and integration into the global business network.
swisscham.co.za/sac/
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Co-Organiser

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Sponsor

XPATWEB
At Xpatweb, we are a dedicated team of highly educated and experienced professionals passionate about delivering specialised solutions in the expatriation and international mobility sector. Our diverse team includes Attorneys, Chartered Accountants, Master Tax Practitioners, Financial Services Providers (FSP), and Master Reward Specialists, all of whom possess the comprehensive skill set necessary to address your residency needs holistically.

We pride ourselves on staying abreast of the latest developments and trends in expatriation and international mobility worldwide. By fostering close relationships with our clients and partner organizations, we are able to offer tailored business solutions and services that meet the unique needs of each client. Our professional credentials ensure accountability and uphold the highest standards of service delivery, positioning us to provide pertinent advice and optimal strategies for immigration.

At Xpatweb, we are committed to creating loyal and meaningful client relationships through trusted delivery and exceptional service. Our goal is to provide you with the best personalized solutions, ensuring a seamless and successful expatriation experience. Choose Xpatweb for a partner that understands your needs and is dedicated to your success.
www.xpatweb.com/#top
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Partner

The Austrian Business Chamber in South Africa (ABC)
The Austrian Business Chamber in South Africa (ABC) is a non-profit organization established in 1996, dedicated to fostering economic and cultural relations between Austria and South Africa. As a member-driven entity, the ABC supports a diverse range of businesses, from large multinationals to small and medium-sized enterprises, across various sectors including manufacturing, tourism, financial services, and technology.

A primary objective of the ABC is to promote bilateral trade and investment. The chamber organizes trade missions, business delegations, and networking events that facilitate valuable business-to-business interactions, helping Austrian companies navigate the South African market and identify potential partners.

In addition to trade promotion, the ABC offers services such as market research, business matchmaking, and advocacy for Austrian businesses in South Africa. The chamber also provides insights into the regulatory landscape, assisting members in overcoming challenges.

Cultural and social relations are equally important to the ABC's mission. The chamber hosts cultural events, including art exhibitions and music concerts, to enhance understanding of Austrian heritage among South Africans and strengthen people-to-people connections.

The ABC is committed to corporate social responsibility, partnering with organizations like the Nelson Mandela Foundation to support education and social justice initiatives, as well as collaborating with the Red Cross for disaster relief efforts.

Members of the ABC benefit from exclusive events, networking opportunities, and business services, gaining visibility in the South African market. Overall, the Austrian Business Chamber plays a crucial role in enhancing economic and cultural ties between Austria and South Africa, serving as an essential resource for Austrian businesses in the region.
austrianbc.co.za
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