The 2025
Critical Skills Report:

Marisa Jacobs is the Managing Director at Xpatweb, the premium work permit practice in South Africa. Recognised as an industry specialist in all work visa categories, Marisa’s Critical Skills Survey was instrumental in validating the 2021 Critical Skills List.

She was recently appointed as the voice of organised business on the Immigration Advisory Board (IAB). Her role within the IAB includes engaging with key stakeholders across the private sector to ensure that business perspectives are meaningfully incorporated into the Board’s deliberations. She also serves on BUSA and NEDLAC, while actively overseeing the practice on a day-to-day basis. 

With extensive experience in expatriate management, Marisa’s expertise extends beyond work visas. She pioneered the development of the Immigration Tracker, now widely adopted by South Africa’s largest expatriate employers. 

Marisa’s solution-based methodologies include managing confidential payrolls for various expatriate groups, navigating SARS tax directives and rulings, securing Reserve Bank clearances for expatriates, and providing optimal banking solutions. Her profound passion for work visa matters is evident through her daily interactions with senior immigration officials and executives worldwide.