Work permits changed

South Africa's recent immigration policy changes welcomes foreign astronomers, astrophysicists, space scientists, plant pathologists and veterinarians with open arms. Unlike other work permits, a quota permit will be issued to applicants before they have found a job in South Africa, although it will not guarantee them a position. The annual list of scarce skills was published in the Government Gazette. Fifty-six occupations are listed, with the requirement that the potential job seeker have at least five years' experience and be registered with their relevant professional body. The list includes 1 000 maths and science teachers, 1 500 software developers, 3 000 biological science technicians, 250 virologists, 1 000 silicon and microchip developers, 500 pasture scientists, 500 actuaries, 500 financial market analysts, 500 risk managers, and 5 000 construction and structural engineers. There is also work for 100 geologists, 200 astronomers, 200 astrophysicists, as well 500 aeronautical engineers, 500 aircraft maintenance engineers, 100 chemical engineers, 500 vehicle diagnostic technicians and 250 jewellery designers. This will be part of the government's plan to stimulate growth and halve poverty and unemployment by 2014.