Many countries now require organisations without a local presence to appoint a data protection representative within their borders. This creates a challenge for businesses that operate internationally but do not have offices in every country where they do business.
Do you process personal data in South Africa?
With the extra-territorial nature of data protection laws like the GDPR, many organisations are already familiar with the requirement to appoint a Data Protection Officer (DPO) or representative within certain jurisdictions. South Africa’s Protection of Personal Information Act (POPIA) introduces similar obligations, requiring non-resident companies processing personal data of South African citizens to appoint an authorised representative within the country.
Michalsons’ new service addresses this compliance need, acting as the authorised representative for organisations based outside South Africa. As a member of Lexing Network, we are positioned to support clients across various jurisdictions, leveraging our local presence to ensure compliance with POPIA.
Do you have a physical presence in South Africa? If not…
Our service includes registering your organisation and its default information officer (typically your CEO or Managing Director) with the South African Information Regulator. We act as the authorised point of contact for any regulatory communications, forwarding them to your designated person without taking any further actions on your behalf. This ensures that your organisation remains in control of all compliance-related decisions, while satisfying the regulatory requirement of having a local representative.
Appoint a South Africa DPO representative
If you need to appoint a data protection representative in South Africa, consider Michalsons’ authorised representative service. Our expertise in local compliance helps organisations meet their obligations under POPIA efficiently. Learn more.