“I was thrilled about the job offer—until they asked for SAQA and QCTO verification. I didn’t even know what those were.”
This is what Siphesihle, a qualified artisan from Durban, shared after securing an opportunity in Australia. At first, everything seemed perfect—he had the skills, references, and employer sponsorship. However, when immigration authorities required verified qualifications through SAQA and QCTO, panic set in.
At first, he tried to navigate the portals himself. Meanwhile, the deadlines were approaching fast. As a result, he became overwhelmed and nearly missed his application window. Finally, that’s when he turned to Global Visa Management Group. We stepped in, took over the process, and ensured his application stayed on track—so he could focus on his future rather than paperwork.
When you’re applying for work, study, or immigration abroad, South African qualifications must be officially recognised by either SAQA or QCTO, depending on the type of qualification.
SAQA – South African Qualifications Authority
QCTO – Quality Council for Trades and Occupations
In essence, these bodies exist to confirm that your education is authentic, accredited, and aligned with international standards. As a result, immigration offices, employers, and professional councils worldwide rely on this verification to prevent fraud and accurately assess the value of your qualification.
While requirements vary depending on your qualification and authority, you’ll typically need:
Note: Many clients also need these documents apostilled if applying to countries under the Hague Convention.
You don’t need to figure this out alone. We’ve done it all before—and we’ll walk you through it step by step.
Let’s be honest—these portals can feel like a maze. Not only must documents be certified, but they also need to be scanned correctly, uploaded in the right format, and aligned with the correct NQF level or qualification type. That’s why at Global Visa Management, we help you:
Don’t waste time applying to the wrong one—we assess your qualification and guide you accordingly.
We help with certified copies, translations, and digital formatting.
We know how to navigate both SAQA and QCTO platforms and speak their language.
If you're also applying for apostille, DHA birth certificates, police clearance, or medical exams, we bundle it all—no duplicated effort.
If you’re also applying for apostille, DHA birth certificates, police clearance, or medical exams, we bundle it all—no duplicated effort.
Mohamed, a qualified boilermaker from the Eastern Cape, had a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity in Saudi Arabia. However, his employer required QCTO verification before they could issue his work visa. Unfortunately, Mohamed had no idea where his SETA records were, and the application forms felt overwhelming.
That’s when our team stepped in. First, we tracked down his SETA statement of results. Next, we verified the provider. Then, we processed the QCTO application and, finally, delivered a certified, verified document in under 4 weeks. As a result, he started his contract on time—and now earns more than he ever thought possible.
As of this year, many immigration bodies—such as Canada’s IRCC, Australia’s TRA, and New Zealand Immigration—are now strictly requiring qualification verification. In other words, there are no shortcuts.
This means if your qualifications aren’t verified early, your visa may be delayed or rejected.
To make your life easier, we also help with:
We’ll get your SAQA/QCTO certificates ready for overseas use.
Required if you’re applying in non-English-speaking countries.
Combine your verification request with PCC for complete documentation.
We assist with unabridged birth or marriage certificates required for some verifications.
Getting started is easy.
First, send us your qualifications.
Next, we’ll assess them and confirm whether SAQA or QCTO applies.
Then, we’ll handle your submission, track the process, and manage any embassy follow-ups.
As a result, there’s no confusion. Ultimately, there are no delays—and no missed opportunities.
Global Visa Management Group is an internal managing company that assists with supplying services to our brands.
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