South Africa Extends Temporary Visa Concessions to Address Backlog
Nevanji Munyaradzi Chiondegwa
In a move aimed at improving the visa system and attracting more international investment, tourism, and job creation, South Africa’s new Home Affairs Minister Dr. Leon Schreiber has announced temporary visa concessions for foreign nationals.
Just one day after being sworn in, Minister Schreiber has extended the temporary concession for foreign nationals who are currently awaiting the outcome of visa, waiver, and appeal applications. This safeguards applicants, including those contributing skills to South Africa, from adverse consequences or being declared undesirable while they await decisions.
The Department of Home Affairs has faced backlogs in various visa and permit categories, despite progress in reducing them. Minister Schreiber has now moved to protect applicants while the backlog is addressed.
“The decision to extend the temporary concession serves as a signal of intent to reinvigorate the Department of Home Affairs and position it as a vital economic enabler,” the statement read. “While it will take time to fully achieve this vision, the extension demonstrates the Minister’s commitment to improving the visa system and making South Africa a more attractive destination for international investment, tourism and job creation.”
To build confidence in this new approach, the Minister further commits to avoiding any repeat of the previous situation that led to the concession expiring. Any further extensions or modifications to the concessions will be communicated in writing prior to the new expiry date of 31 December 2024.
The temporary measures outlined in the statement aim to provide stability and clarity for applicants awaiting outcomes on visa, waiver and appeal applications during this transitional period.
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