Maritzburg will not be able to use Ghana defender John Pantsil in their season opener against Mamelodi Sundwons on Friday due to administrative lapses.
Despite playing for second-tier side Santos FC last season on a one-year deal, Pantsil must secure a new work permit for the season.
Pantsil signed a two-year contract for the Team of Choice last month but his papers are yet to be sorted out.
He has rich experienced including 88 international appearances for the Black Stars.
With club football, Pantsil has featured for Fulham and West Ham.