Do you get paid for your internship?
Because this is a learning opportunity, in the large majority of cases you will not be compensated for interning in South Africa. There are limited exceptions and some companies may offer compensation or accommodation. Earning compensation in South Africa leads to a host of other issues the largest being the extreme difficulty of obtaining a government work Visa.
Is South Africa a safe place to stay for interns?
Yes, as long as you use common sense. As in every country or city in the world there are some areas which are safer then others. Some locations have more problems with crime then others. Johannesburg is one of the most dangerous cities in the country while Cape Town, where we arrange for your internship, is one of the safest. Unlike in Johannesburg, people in Cape Town often walk from place to place at night.
It is important to always use common sense and often small lifestyle adjustments need to be made The staff at ALLINTERNS will provide you with a comprehensive safety debriefing prior to your stay in Cape Town .
Do I need a visa as an intern?
Well, it depends. You will only need a study Visa if you will be in the country for more then 3 months. If required, you will obtain your Visa from the South African embassy in your home country. To apply for this visa you need a few documents.
- Proof of registration of your university.
- A reservation or a valid return flight ticket
- A passport which is still valid for 6 months after you leave South-Africa.
- A statement/certificate of well behaviour in your home country
- Insurance documents which prove that you are insured for the total stay in South-Africa with the specific dates of your stay abroad.
- An invitation letter from the company you are going to work for, with the period and your function.
- A proof of sufficient funds, this can be a copy of your own bank account, or for example your parents financial support with a formal letter.
If you are from the United States, for example, and are staying in South Africa for less then 90 days, you often are granted access into South Africa without an internship visa. You will officially be in South Africa as a tourist and not allowed to do any kind of (unpaid) work. Although many students choose not to obtain a visa for short stays, we strongly recommend applying for the internship visa. Please consult the South African embassy in your country for complete information.
Ask us, to send you the visa application form. (BI-84)
More information about getting a VISA
http://www.southafrica.info/public_services/foreigners/travel_requirements/visas.htm
http://www.home-affairs.gov.za/visa_countries.asp - Counties subject to VISA fees
http://www.home-affairs.gov.za/visa_schedule.asp - Countries not needing a VISA
Keep in mind that the above information can change or be different for some nationalities.
When do I have to apply for an internship at ALLINTERNS ?
To have enough time for a proper preparation, we advise you to apply at ALLINTERNS 3 to 6 months ahead of your estimated departure date. In some cases you can apply with only 3 weeks before your starting date. The biggest issue you will face will be arranging a Visa in such short notice. Normally, applying for a visa will take at least 2 to 4 weeks, but in some countries this process takes a much shorter period of time. Ask the South African embassy in your country for details.
Please direct all other inquires to info@allinterns.co.za
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