Home Affairs Extends Temporary Concession for Foreign Nationals Amid Visa and Appeal Processing Delays
The Department of Home Affairs has issued Immigration Directive No. 4 of 2025, extending temporary concessions for foreign nationals impacted by ongoing delays in visa, waiver, and appeal processing. Signed by Minister of Home Affairs Dr Leon Schreiber on 28 March 2025, the directive provides legal relief and travel flexibility until 30 September 2025.
Background
Following efforts to address the backlog under Immigration Directive No. 16 of 2024, the Department acknowledges that many applications remain pending due to delays, especially in the printing of outcomes. Appeals and manual applications are now being prioritised.
Key Provisions of the Directive:
1. Waiver Applications
Foreign nationals with pending waiver outcomes as of 28 March 2025 are granted a temporary extension until 30 September 2025, to enable the Department of Home Affairs to process the applications and then to allow the applicants to collect the outcomes and submit applications.
Those who wish to abandon their applications may depart South Africa before 28 March 2025 without being declared undesirable.
2. Visa Applications
Long-term visa applicants awaiting outcomes of pending applications receive an extension of their current legal status until 30 September 2025. These individuals may not engage in activities beyond what their existing visa conditions permit. Departing and re-entering South Africa requires a port of entry visa, unless the applicant is visa-exempt.
3. Visa Appeals
Applicants who have appealed a negative visa decision are also covered by the extension. They may travel without penalty until 30 September 2025, provided they carry a copy of their appeal receipt as well as the rejection letter when they travel. Re-entry into the country requires a valid port of entry visa, unless exempt.
Please note: This concession does not apply to permanent residence permit applicants, who must maintain a valid legal status at all times while awaiting outcomes.
4. Legal Assistance Available
Navigating immigration issues can be stressful, especially during periods of regulatory change.
Mc Menamin Van Huyssteen and Botes Attorneys Inc., experts in Immigration and Administrative Law, are ready to assist individuals and businesses with visa appeals, waiver applications, and compliance matters.
If you need guidance to ensure your documents and legal standing remain in order, contact us for reliable, professional support tailored to your needs.
Contact Us:
Tel: +27 12 344 0525 / +27 83 228 7050
Email: mvh@mweb.co.za / elria@mvh.co.za