Minister of Home Affairs: Implementing Change from Day One
On July 9, 2024 / Leave a comment
Dr. Leon Schreiber, the newly appointed Minister of Home Affairs, has swiftly acted to extend the temporary concession for foreign nationals awaiting the outcomes of their visa, waiver, and appeal applications. This extension is a significant relief for applicants, safeguarding them from being declared undesirable or facing adverse consequences while their applications are processed.
This decision underscores Minister Schreiber’s commitment to improving the visa system, aiming to make South Africa a more appealing destination for international investment, tourism, and job creation. By reinvigorating the Department of Home Affairs, he seeks to position it as a crucial driver of economic growth.
The extended concession will be reviewed, modified, or amended as necessary, with any changes communicated in writing before the current expiry date of 31 December 2024. According to a statement from the Department of Home Affairs, the specifics of these temporary measures are outlined below.
The extension applies to waiver, visa, and visa appeal applications pending as of 30 June 2024. Visa holders are granted a temporary extension until 31 December 2024. This additional time allows the Department to process applications, applicants to receive their outcomes, and submit applications for the appropriate visas.
Visa holders awaiting their application outcomes are permitted to exit and re-enter South Africa through a port of entry up to 31 December 2024, without being declared undesirable. Non-visa-exempt applicants traveling with a long-term visa application receipt must apply for a port of entry visa to re-enter the country.
Short-term visa holders who have applied for renewals but have not yet received outcomes must exit South Africa within 90 days of the expiry date of their principal visa to avoid being declared undesirable.
Minister Schreiber’s prompt actions demonstrate his dedication to resolving the inefficiencies within the Department of Home Affairs. His vision to enhance South Africa’s appeal to international talent, investment, and tourism is evident in these protective measures for applicants and the commitment to timely communication of future changes.
For all visa enquiries, Contact Initiate Immigration and get in touch with an Immigration Consultant today!
Megan Sibbald