South Africa, often referred to as the “Rainbow Nation,” is a country of diverse cultures, stunning landscapes, and vibrant opportunities. Whether you’re considering relocating for work or retirement, South Africa offers a unique blend of advantages that make it an attractive destination. From its favourable visa policies to its affordable lifestyle and natural beauty, here…
Cape Town, South Africa – July 16, 2025 – The Department of Home Affairs (DHA) in South Africa, a critical pillar of national identity and security, has embarked on an ambitious journey of modernisation and digital transformation. Under the leadership of Minister Leon Schreiber, the DHA is pushing towards a “Home Affairs @ home” vision,…
South Africa’s new Home Affairs Minister, Dr Leon Schreiber, has extended a temporary concession for foreign nationals awaiting decisions on visa applications, waivers, and appeals. This move aims to protect applicants from negative consequences while the Department of Home Affairs works to reduce processing backlogs. What the Extension Means for Applicants Travel During the Extension Period Important Notes A Signal…
Over 56,000 visa applications have been piled up at the Department of Home Affairs, and it estimates that they will only be processed by the middle of 2024. Home affairs minister Aaron Motsoaledi stated in response to a written parliamentary question and answer session this week that 56,543 visas still need to be processed by…
The Department of Home Affairs has reversed a decision to centralise the adjudication of long-term visas. That plan lasted for only a couple of months and did not go at all well. Embassies – previously accused of sometimes endangering national security or harming the economy – are now back in charge. On September 1st 2022,…
Visa extension for waiver and visa applicants until 30 June 2022 The Department of Home Affairs has admitted to many delays in the processing of waivers, and visa applications. Previously, temporary residency visa applications took 6 to 8 weeks to process, however, due to COVID, they are taking over 6 months for applications to be…
Please see the updated Directive in regards to the New Critical Skill List for 2022 As of 2nd of February 2022, the Department of Home Affairs issued a new Critical Skill list, as to the job titles that are deemed critical in South Africa. As per the previous Critical Skill list, last updated in 2014,…
Home Affairs office / Image via Facebook The Department of Home Affairs, (DHA) after 22 months, has resumed the processing of permanent residency (PR) applications, due to the COVID-19 Pandemic. Effective from the 3rd of January 2022. Foreigners looking to become permanent residents in South Africa have been barred from applying since the start of…
The Department of Home Affairs has extended operating times at front offices and ports of entry to ease congestion associated with the festive season. Home Affairs Minister Dr. Aaron Motsoaledi said operating hours at front offices will be extended by two and a half hours from 08h00 to 17h30, starting Monday (13 December) to 30…
As of Monday at 4am, South Africa was removed from the red list preventing entry to the UK, much to the delight of the national portfolio committee on tourism. South Africa was one of 42 countries to be removed from the list on Monday. The announcement that South Africa would be taken off the list…
