Articles Archive

South Africans are using Montenegro to avoid UK red list �` here’s why it’s a great option

• South Africans have been among the most restricted travellers in the world during the pandemic. • And restrictions for those wanting to travel or return to the United Kingdom have been particularly onerous. • But wily travellers have found loopholes in the system - mostly by choosing to stop over in countries not on the UK`s red list. • Mexico and West Africa quickly emerged as viable options. • But it`s the Balkans, and in particular Montenegro, that seem to be winning out at the moment. V.5706

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HOME AFFAIRS - ONLINE APPLICATION FOR ENABLING DOCUMENTS (IDENTITY & TRAVEL DOCUMENTS) FOR REFUGEES. 1.1 In an effort to restore crit

HOME AFFAIRS - ONLINE APPLICATION FOR ENABLING DOCUMENTS (IDENTITY & TRAVEL DOCUMENTS) FOR REFUGEES. 1.1 In an effort to restore critical services to recognised refugees online services have been extended to include applications for either Identity & Travel Documents in a manner that contributes to limiting the spread of Covid-19 and ensure excellent service delivery. 1.2 The online service referred to in paragraph 1.1 is only limited and applicable to the dependants of recognised refugees: V.5707

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South Africa’s most wanted: Flushing out the Guptas

Indications are that the billionaire Gupta brothers and their wives have pipped South African law enforcement to the Interpol post with a preventive strike that is likely to stall the issuing of red notices. Interpol red notices are a vital tool in South Africa’s quest to definitively locate members of the Gupta family for possible extradition. It therefore makes sense that blocking efforts to secure such notices would be a priority for the family �` four of whom are fugitives from justice. V.5705

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Corporate visas can fix seasonal farm labour shortages

V.5704

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Start-Up Visa: South Africans Lead Way In Gaining Canada Permanent Residency

South Africans are enjoying a level of success that is nothing short of remarkable in gaining permanent residency in Canada under the Start-Up Visa program. V.5698

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Borders with India open for 3 days a week for Bangladeshis to return

There is a ban on travelling to India using the land ports till July 14 Bangladeshi nationals who are stranded in India will be able to return home on Sunday, Tuesday and Wednesday of every week. V.5699

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The 8 most in-demand IT jobs in South Africa right now

Xpatweb has released its 2020/21 Critical Skills Survey Report, which details the eight most sought-after jobs in the IT sector right now. The survey is conducted annually across a wide range of multi-national and corporate companies in South Africa to determine and assess the pressure points that human resource and global mobility practitioners face in sourcing critically skilled individuals when seeking to fill posts locally. V.5703

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Home Affairs �` Permanent Residence to commence

The permit services in terms of the Immigration Act will be rendered by the Department of Home Affairs as follows : V.5690

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`Foreigners create work for South Africans,` says immigration lawyer

Lester Kiewit finds out from Stefanie de Saude-Darbandi what the proposed new law means for foreign business Gauteng townships. As part of plans to revitalize the economy, Gauteng economic development department and premier David Makhura’s policy unit have drafted a new law which seeks to bar foreign nationals from doing business in Gauteng Townships V.5693

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SA Passport Bid: Home Affairs tells ‘fugitive’ Atul Gupta to take a hike

‘I am advised and respectfully submit that our courts have held for nearly a century that a fugitive from justice has no standing to approach a South African court’ �` Home Affairs DG Livhuwani Tommy Makhode. V.5694

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SA Passport Bid: Home Affairs tells ‘fugitive’ Atul Gupta to take a hike

‘I am advised and respectfully submit that our courts have held for nearly a century that a fugitive from justice has no standing to approach a South African court’ �` Home Affairs DG Livhuwani Tommy Makhode. V.5695

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Home Affairs �` Permanent Residence to commence

Home Affairs �` Permanent Residence to commence The permit services in terms of the Immigration Act will be rendered by the Department of Home Affairs as follows : (a) Permanent residence permits appeals applications with effect from 1 October 2021. (b) Proof of permanent residence permits applications with effect from 1 October 2021;and (c) Permanent residence permits applications with effect from January 2022. Per Home Affairs proclamation and gazette - 30 June 2021 www.samigration.com V.5689

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SOUTH AFRICAN TOURISM ANNUAL PERFORMANCE PLAN for 2021/22

EXECUTIVE AUTHORITY STATEMENT Minister for Tourism In the financial year 2020/21, the tourism sector operated mostly under travel restrictions imposed in varying degrees in various countries of the world to curb the spread of the Covid-19 pandemic. V.5680

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Home Affairs Minister Dr Aaron Motsoaledi extends the validity period of different categories of temporary visas

The Minister of Home Affairs, Dr Aaron Motsoaledi, has extended the validity period of legally issued visas which expired during the lockdown period to 30 September 2021 for short-term visas, issued for a period not longer than 90 days, such as a tourist visa. V.5682

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Nigeria adds South Africa to its Covid-19 `red list` for arriving travellers

Nigeria is adding South Africa to its `red list` of countries for which there are stringent restrictions for arriving passengers, officials said during a briefing on Monday.Nigeria is introducing the restrictions due to the spread of the Delta variant in South Africa, Chikwe Ihekweazu, the head of the Nigeria Centre for Disease Control, said. V.5684

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Can an abandoned child get a birth certificate?

`Home Affairs also says that you must be a South African citizen or permanent residence permit holder with a valid South African ID The following question is part of Groundup`s Answers to your questions series and comes from a reader who wants to know if an abandoned child can get a birth certificate from Home Affairs. V.5685

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Can I change my surname without my parents` permission?

The short answer If you are older than 18, you don`t need your parents` permission. The whole question I was born out of wedlock and so I was given my mother`s maiden name. V.5686

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SA companies import critical skills as local pool can’t plug the hole

South Africa`s critical skills list includes a long list of engineering jobs. Photo: Getty Images ________________________________________ About 97% of listed and multinational companies in South Africa say engineers are indispensable to their business operations and often have to be recruited abroad. Yet government’s draft list of critical skills now contains only half as many engineering professions as it did six years ago. V.5691

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Push for new South African remote working visa

The Western Cape provincial government has formally requested the introduction of a ‘remote working’ visa for South Africa. In a letter addressed to both the minister of tourism and the minister of home affairs, the Western Cape’s provincial minister of finance and economic opportunities David Maynier said that the visa will allow international visitors to stay longer and work remotely while travelling in South Africa. V.5692

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DHA Contingent liability

DHA Contingent liability Contingent liabilities sit way above R2 billion as Home Affairs is losing court cases. Not only is it losing cases, but it is also getting lambasted by the courts V.5674

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Home Affairs - On Employment of foreign nationals

Home Affairs - On Employment of foreign nationals On South African employers hiring only foreign nationals, he replied that there was no law against this. The laws are only for foreign employers. However, things have to change, and a bill needs to be made. V.5675

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Query and Followups �` Home Affairs

Query and Followups �` Home Affairs On DHA’s failure to respond to queries, DHA is working on an integrated query system and will be able to respond to queries timeously V.5676

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Investigations into Fake Visas �` Department of Home Affairs

Investigations into Fake Visas �` Department of Home Affairs Mr Roos expressed appreciation for the Minister’s investigation into the fake permits even though it cost R5 million and asked what criminal charges are laid against officials who resign after an investigation. Specifically, will criminal charges be laid against the former Chief Director of Permitting who was fingered in permit corruption. V.5677

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Immigrants take Home Affairs to court, say it has all but collapsed

They would like to invest millions in SA, but some have been waiting more than six years for permanent residence permits. V.5683

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Home Affairs facing years of delays due to lockdown: expert

The Covid-19 pandemic and provisions of the Disaster Management Act have reduced already-slow Home Affairs processes to a crawl �` impacting thousands of people and creating a backlog that could take years to clear. V.5687

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How South Africa has squeezed options for migrants over 25 years

There is a widely recognised dissonance between the progressive, inclusive vision of South Africa’s constitution and xenophobia experienced by foreign nationals across South Africa. It can be tempting to describe this tension as one between good, inclusive laws and bad, xenophobic citizens. V.5688

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South Africa to roll out e-visa in the coming months

Home Affairs minister Aaron Motsoaledi says that his department has concluded its e-visa pilot process and now plans to officially roll the system out later this year. V.5678

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Government wants to block foreigners from taking certain jobs in South Africa �` including Uber drivers

Employment and Labour minister Thulas Nxesi says that his department has been working closely with the International Labour Organisation in the commissioning and development of a new national labour migration policy. V.5679

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South African Permanent Residence

South Africa encourages permanent residency if you are serious about staying in South Africa on a long terms permanent basis there are many categories you can apply under. V.5668

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Delta puts its money on SA

Delta Air Lines is set to make a return to South Africa on August 1, saying there is rapidly growing demand States-side for holidays in South Africa, which it sees as a highly sought-after destination. V.5671

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How I got my new South African passport in a week

When South Africa’s COVID-19 alert status was lowered to level 1 at the beginning of March, the Department of Home Affairs also reopened branches around the country. V.5665

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Some South Africans who have emigrated are having their bank accounts ‘blocked’ �` here’s why

In its 2020 budget, National Treasury announced changes to the tax and exchange control of individuals, particularly those who underwent financial emigration. V.5672

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3 top emigration destinations for South Africans �` and how to get there

Research has shown that there’s been a significant increase in emigration over the past five years, especially amongst high-net-worth and ultra-high-net-worth South Africans. V.5667

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Home Affairs tells mom she’s not the registered mother of her child

Cape Town - An educator from Kraaifontein has been looking for help after being informed by the Department of Home Affairs that legally, her child is not her own. V.5670

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Real reason Home Affairs systems are always down �` it is getting what it pays for

State Information Technology Agency (SITA) boss Luvuyo Keyise has hit back at the Minister of Home Affairs after the Minister suggested that his department’s ills can all be traced back to SITA. V.5664

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Processing times for Temporary Residence visas

According to VFS, there is a backlog of applications at Home Affairs` Head Office, so we are seeing applications from November and December 2020 being finalised at the moment (during May 2021). V.5655

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South Africa’s proposed new biometrics policy meets sharp criticism

A draft identity management policy proposed by South Africa’s Department of Home Affairs (DHA) which will allow access by police to citizens’ biometric information in the national population register has been greeted with sharp criticism by some stakeholders. V.5669

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VFS Global issues update on visa application services in India

VFS Global, the visa outsourcing and technology services company, has issued an update on visa application services in India. Due to the lockdown/curfew restrictions announced in some states, select visa applications centres are temporarily closed in certain cities. V.5656

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Golden Visa investment drops 81%

Investment raised through golden visas fell 81 percent in May, year-on-year, to €27,7 million, according to Lusa based on SEF data. In May last year, the investment had reached €146.1 euros. V.5666

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Ramaphosa locks SA down to #Level3 to contain third wave as vaccination rollout lags

South African President Cyril Ramaphosa has locked South Africa down to level three. With infections rising, provinces like Gauteng, Free State, North West and the Northern Cape are officially in a third wave. The president has partially banned off-site alcohol sales, while the curfew has been extended from 10pm to 4am. V.5653

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10 things you should know before travelling in Africa

Africa is home to stunning landscapes, culture, cuisine and friendly people. Clinton Moodley chats with travel agency owner Jennifer Morris about what travellers embarking on a trip to another African country need to know. V.5654

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Our original sin at Home Affairs is the IT system, says Minister Aaron Motsoaledi

Cape Town - The Department of Home Affairs is working with the Treasury to get exemption from having to use the State Information Technology Agency (Sita) for its online services to solve its IT problems. V.5657

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Migration is a quick fix for skills shortages. Building on Australians’ skills is better

Prime Minister Scott Morrison has highlighted workforce skills as the “single biggest challenge facing the Australian economy” in recovering from the COVID-19 pandemic. Employer surveys also show it’s a top concern. V.5661

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‘Why I can’t leave’: Home Affairs is part of the problem for refugee and migrant women stuck in abusive situations

File photo: Refugees living on the pavement near to the Cape Town Central police station in March 2020. (Photo: Nardus Engelbrecht/Gallo Images) Less Under lockdown, with no in-person services available to refugees and asylum seekers at Home Affairs, a woman who wants to separate her documentation from that of an abusive husband or partner cannot do so. V.5662

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Scalabrini court victory for people seeking asylum in South Africa

Home Affairs has been interdicted from implementing certain provisions of the Refugees Act and new Regulations (both implemented on 1 January 2020), which sought to return asylum seekers back to their home country where they could be face detention without trial, rape, torture, or death, merely because he or she was a month late in renewing a visa. V.5648

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Visa Appeals - rejected applications, Undesirable Declaration Waivers, V-listing and Legal Immigration Services

Our dynamic team of immigration consultants provide specialist advice on temporary residence visas, permanent residence permits, appeals on rejected applications, undesirable declaration waivers, V-listing and legal immigration services. V.5650

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REFUGEES AND ASYLUM SEEKERS PERMIT Change To Temporary Residence

Major News and hope : We are one of the few organisations getting Emptions & waivers approved !!!! Apply Now for Temporary and Permanent Residence even with EXPIRED LOCKDOWN PERMITS V.5651

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illegal in South Africa - Lockdown �` Cannot get asylum - Law enforcement bothering you - Legal Immigration Services

We have assisted many illegal foreigners who have been arrested by law enforcement officials and they are now free !!! Under lockdown there is much confusion about what the rights of an illegal foreigner who cannot apply for asylum or is being hassled and harassed by the police , SAPS . V.5652

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Germany Reveals Plans to Abolish Travel Warning to Most Countries From Next Month

The German authorities have announced that the country will be lifting its travel warning for most countries previously imposed due to the COVID-19 pandemic situation. V.5658

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New campaign calls on governments to restart travel

A new campaign has been launched by the World Travel & Tourism Council (WTTC) calling on governments around the world to restart international travel and enable the world to ‘Reunite’ once again. V.5645

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Ireland to reopen visa-free travel to South Africans shortly

The Republic of Ireland has said it will soon be allowing visa-free entry to South African visitors. Earlier this year, in a bid to mitigate the spread of the new COVID-19 variants in that country, the Republic of Ireland revoked visa-free travel privileges to several high-risk nations including South Africa. V.5646

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Saudi Arabia Extends Visas for Expats Stranded Abroad Until July 31

According to the Saudi Press Agency (SPA), expats stranded abroad will have their residence permits (Iqama), exit and re-entry visas automatically renewed until July 31, 2021. V.5660

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Saudi to extend validity of visas until July 31 for expats stranded abroad

The extension will be done automatically and at no cost to the visa holders On Tuesday, King Salman has directed authorities in Saudi Arabia to automatically renew the validity of residence permits (Iqama), exit and re-entry visas of expats stranded abroad until July 31, 2021. V.5641

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High hopes as US revises SA’s risk status

The inbound travel trade celebrated today (June 9) following news that the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has moved South Africa from risk alert Level 4 to Level 3. V.5642

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Visas of Stranded Foreign Nationals Valid till Aug 31: Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA)

The Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) said on Friday that Indian visa or the stay stipulation period of foreign nationals stranded in the country due to the Covid-19: V.5644

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Virgin reopens SA-UK route

Virgin Atlantic will resume operating passenger flights three times a week between London Heathrow and Johannesburg OR Tambo from June 24. The airline says the schedule will be published shortly. V.5649

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Netherlands finally ends SA flight ban �` and shortens quarantine to 5 days with a negative test

• The Netherlands has announced that flights from South Africa will be allowed to resume, with travel exemptions offered to non-EU residents. • Although most South Africans still won`t be able to enter the Netherlands due to an ongoing EU ban, students, key workers, and those with compelling family reasons will be allowed to travel. V.5639

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Portugal Permits Quarantine-Free Entry for Arrivals From Cyprus, Sweden & Lithuania

Citizens of Cyprus, Sweden, and Lithuania can now enter Portugal without being obliged to follow quarantine rules upon their arrival, as the latter’s authorities have lifted such a measure for these three countries after estimating that they have recently reported fewer COVID-19 cases of infection. V.5640

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Namibia Home affairs discourages non-urgent applications

The home affairs ministry has urged the public to delay application for national documents �` due to rising Covid-19 cases �` that are not urgent. The ministry has over the past three weeks recorded 10 positive Covid-19 cases among its staff at different offices countrywide. V.5643

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Pressure mounts on UK government re travel

Trade bodies from across the aviation and travel industries in Britain are planning an industry day of action (#traveldayofaction) on June 23 to put pressure on the UK Government to support a safe return to international travel. V.5647

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After 16 months, COVID border closures keep families separated

WASHINGTON (AFP) �` Julien Rocher has been able to see his son Zadig, who lives in the United States (US), only once in 15 months since Washington shut the country’s borders over the COVID-19 pandemic. “It’s like he has disappeared,” Rocher said. V.5659

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Manager at AG`s office in Pretoria held for allegedly offering Home Affairs official a R3 000 bribe

An employee at the AG`s office has been arrested. Getty Images • A general manager at the office of the Auditor-General in Pretoria has been arrested. • He allegedly offered a Home Affairs official a R3 000 bribe. • According to the Hawks, it emerged that his ID card and his daughter`s birth certificate were fraudulent. V.5637

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Manager at AG`s office in Pretoria held for allegedly offering Home Affairs official a R3 000 bribe

An employee at the AG`s office has been arrested. Getty Images • A general manager at the office of the Auditor-General in Pretoria has been arrested. • He allegedly offered a Home Affairs official a R3 000 bribe. • According to the Hawks, it emerged that his ID card and his daughter`s birth certificate were fraudulent. V.5638

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Snail’s pace at home affairs set to build up backlogs lasting years

Crisis to come at a head at the end of June and July, when applications for visa renewals are submitted A child waits in line at a department of home affairs office. V.5635

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Danish parliament approves law to deport asylum seekers

Rights groups, UNHCR and EU criticise move, which some fear will have a domino effect and see other nations opt out of responsibilities. V.5636

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Sending these WhatsApp messages in South Africa can now land you with a fine and jailtime

President Cyril Ramaphosa has signed the Cybercrimes Bill into law, bringing South Africa’s cybersecurity laws in line with the rest of the world. V.5628

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Senior Home Affairs official in hot water for granting Bushiri’s permanent residency application

Johannesburg - A top Department of Home Affairs official is under fire for approving controversial Malawian fugitive and self-proclaimed Prophet Shepherd Bushiri and his family`s applications for permanent residency. V.5630

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Senior Home Affairs official in hot water for granting Bushiri’s permanent residency application

Johannesburg - A top Department of Home Affairs official is under fire for approving controversial Malawian fugitive and self-proclaimed Prophet Shepherd Bushiri and his family`s applications for permanent residency. V.5631

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Some Immigration , South African Citizenship terms �`

Birth, descent, naturalisation, marriage and in the event of being stateless. The criteria for citizenship in each of the following categories are �` • Birth: Applies to any person born in South Africa with at least one parent being a South African citizen. V.5617

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Partner Visa - South Africa

The below information on Partners Visa and Permit options for South African immigration includes: V.5618

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Life Partner Immigration Visa South Africa �`

A Life partner visa for South Africa is a form of relatives visa. They can be applied for by applicants who wish to join either: • Their partner who is a South African Citizen • Their partner who is a South African Permanent Resident It is more and more common for couples to not get married and the provision of a life partner visa in South Africa’s immigration rules caters for those in permanent relationships but not spouses. V.5619

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Relatives Visa - South Africa

The South African Immigration Act allows applications for permanent residence from those who have a first kin relationship with either a South African Permanent Resident or Citizen. This category of permit is known as a relatives permit. V.5620

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Study Visa for South Africa

In June 2014 the Department of Home Affairs amended the Immigration Act. The Study Visa / Study Permit was one the categories affected. Background For both standalone and dependent students who made applications prior to June 2014 for permission to study in South Africa, the application made would have been for a study permit. V.5621

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R e c o g n i s ed R e f u g e e ( S e c t i o n 2 4 P e r m i t )

This means that : A refugee can apply for permanent residence if he or she has been living in South Africa on a refugee status permit for a minimum of five consecutive years.143 For a recognized refugee to receive a permanent residence permit, the standing committee for refugee affairs must have certified that that person will remain a refugee “indefinitely.” V.5622

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Thousands to face visa renewal hurdles after being cut from critical skills list

New bill looks set to create serious challenges for skilled foreigners already working in SA Thousands of skilled people working in SA could face visa renewal challenges, or even be forced to leave the country, if their job descriptions have been cut from the latest SA critical skills list, which has just been released for public comment. V.5627

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Motsoaledi comes under fire over ‘chaotic state’ of Home Affairs

Politcal parties raised concern of the problem of long queues where often people are turned away because the system is offline. Minister Aaron Motsoaledi came under fire from some opposition parties in the National Assembly for what they say is the chaotic state of the Home Affairs department. V.5634

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Who wants to buy a visa? Comparing the uptake of residence by investment programmes in the European Union

Residence by investment programmes are available in several EU countries. These programmes grant visas in return for investments in specified areas. Drawing on a new study, Kristin Surak examines the uptake of these programmes across the EU, the characteristics of applicants, and the nature of their investments. V.5609

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National Interest Exception Applications for International Business Travelers on the Rise

With the COVID-19 pandemic easing, Baker Donelson`s Business Immigration Team is seeing an increase in demand for U.S. employer-based employment visas. However, even as we have been obtaining employment visa petition approvals at a record pace for L-1, E-2, H-1B and O-1 employees, at the same time, these and other international business visitors and employees from around the world are facing challenging COVID-19 travel restrictions. Fortunately, it may be possible for an individual otherwise covered by one of the geographic COVID-19 travel restriction proclamations to receive a National Interest Exception (NIE) to allow travel and entry to the U.S V.5611

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Short of critical skills, SA wants to allow even fewer categories in Updating of the critical skills list is going the wrong way with limits akin to those of a medieval guild

President Cyril Ramaphosa has said we will not achieve higher rates of growth and employment if we do not implement economic reforms. On his priority reform programme is “the revised critical skills list”. V.5632

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Government wants easier travel to and from South Africa �` what you should know

Home affairs minister Dr Aaron Motsoaeldi says that his department is currently working on a number of initiatives that will make travel to and from South Africa �` including the introduction of new e-gates and e-visas. V.5633

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Zimbabwe: Home Affairs silent as 180 000 foreign nationals await permit

The four-year Zimbabwe Exemption Permit lapses in December and the South African government has not yet indicated if it will renew it. Thousands of holders of the Zimbabwe Exemption Permit (ZEP) are living in uncertainty because the South African government has not yet indicated whether it will renew their permits. About 180 000 Zimbabweans hold ZEPs. The four-year permit expires on 31 December 2021. V.5610

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Home Affairs facing years of delays due to lockdown: expert

The Covid-19 pandemic and provisions of the Disaster Management Act have reduced already-slow Home Affairs processes to a crawl �` impacting thousands of people and creating a backlog that could take years to clear. The impact of the Covid-19 pandemic is set to further delay and derail Home Affairs processes, with potentially tens of thousands of people negatively impacted as a result. V.5612

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I have lived here for most of my life`: 180 000 Zimbabweans in SA face uncertain future

*The four-year Zimbabwe Exemption Permit lapses in December and the government has not yet indicated if it will renew it.* * *About 180 000 Zimbabweans in the country are affected.* * *Financial institutions have warned that they will be obliged to freeze accounts if the permits are not renewed.* Thousands of holders of the Zimbabwe Exemption Permit (ZEP) are living in uncertainty because the South African government has not yet indicated whether it will renew their permits, GroundUp writes About 180 000 Zimbabweans hold ZEPs. The four-year permit expires on 31 December. V.5608

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Fence at Cape Town refugee camp removed, leaving people vulnerable

Dozens of refugees were left vulnerable on Thursday, when the City of Cape Town removed the fence separating the refugees camp from the notorious Bellville taxi rank. The heavy steel gate brings women and children little comfort. “Now anyone can come in and anyone can go out,” says Hafiz Mohammad, a spokesperson for the temporary shelter. Shortly after the fence was removed a minibus driver is seen on video using the women’s ablution facility, ignoring a request not to do so. Caroline Hajira, a refugee and mother of nine children, said she fears for her children’s safety and that of the other 200 children living in the shelter. V.5602

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Immigration update: Portugal | Inbound and outbound air traffic measures

According to Order nº 4857-A/ 2021, air traffic to and from mainland Portugal is authorized to: 1.Flights to and from countries belonging to the EU and countries associated with the Schengen Area (Liechtenstein, Norway, Iceland and Switzerland), only for essential travel to and from the following countries: Cyprus, Croatia, Lithuania, the Netherlands and Sweden. 2.Flights from Australia, China, South Korea, New Zealand, Rwanda, Singapore, Thailand, and the special administrative regions of Hong Kong and Macau, subject to reciprocity; V.5601

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US visa snubbed by Chinese students in favor of UK

Delays to US visas mean that Chinese students are snubbing American higher education in favor of studying in the UK. According to the Chinese embassy in the UK, nearly 216,000 Chinese students are pursuing their studies in Britain. Both the US and UK currently have a strained relationship with China, mainly over new security laws imposed on Hong Kong. V.5603

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How I got my new South African passport in a week

When South Africa’s COVID-19 alert status was lowered to level 1 at the beginning of March, the Department of Home Affairs also reopened branches around the country. This included the reopening of its eHomeAffairs service, which lets South African citizens get their smart ID card and passport through participating branches from Absa, FNB, Nedbank, Standard Bank, Discovery, and Investec. In the first week that the service relaunched, I tested it to renew my expired passport. V.5604

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E Cape granny frustrated as she struggles to annul ‘bogus’ marriage

Home Affairs officials say they cannot annul the marriage when the alleged spouse is deceased. The 68-year-old Nomachule Philda Qangule from kuNgolo Village in Libode, in the Eastern Cape, recently found out, to her shock, that she is married. V.5606

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Home Affairs must ensure ABIS delinquents pay back the money

MP says audit indicated that some of personnel involved have left organisation and hence The DA welcomes the finding of a forensic audit of the Automated Biometric Information System (ABIS) contract between Home Affairs and EOH Mthombo. The irregular award of the biometrics project, and subsequent irregular payments, is yet another case of what happens when officials are appointed through the policy of Cadre Deployment. V.5607

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How Europe’s Top Tourism Destinations Are Opening for Summer 2021: A Country By County Guide

The summer season is almost here, and the European countries are set not to let summer 2020 repeat itself. European Union Member States, in particular those that heavily rely on tourism, have started to prepare for summer 2021 early at the beginning of the year in an attempt to revive travel to their territory by enabling tourists to safely visit. V.5613

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Is the Section 29(1)(f) Prohibited Persons Status unconstitutional? Implications thereof !!

In recent days, we have noted a marked increase in the number of cases involving persons who have been found to be in possession of fraudulent visas or permits. Many of these persons find themselves in this very precarious position by no fault of their own having fallen victim of elaborate fraudulent schemes designed to prey on individuals seeking valid status in the Republic. V.5616

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Saudi Arabia announces free-of-cost extension in iqama, visas of all expats

The validity of iqamas (residency permits), exit and re-entry visas, as well as visit visas of expatriates, who are unable to travel to the kingdom due travel ban on countries, will be extended until June 2, 2021 free of cost, the Saudi Press Agency reported citing a royal order. The Saudi finance minister approved the extension in iqamas and visas at the directives of Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques King Salman. The decision is part of the continuous of efforts being taken by the government to ensure the safety of citizens and residents and to mitigate its economic and financial impacts on them. V.5605

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Can foreigners own property in South Africa?

Foreigners may purchase and own immovable property in South Africa without any restrictions, as foreigners are generally subject to the same laws as South African nationals. The only foreigners disqualified from owning property in South Africa are foreigners that are here illegally. V.5615

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Scalabrini court victory for people seeking asylum in South Africa

Scalabrini court victory for people seeking asylum in South Africa Home Affairs has been interdicted from implementing certain provisions of the Refugees Act and new Regulations (both implemented on 1 January 2020), which sought to return asylum seekers back to their home country where they could be face detention without trial, rape, torture, or death, merely because he or she was a month late in renewing a visa. V.5614

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Motsoaledi comes under fire over ‘chaotic state’ of Home Affairs

Political parties raised concern of the problem of long queues where often people are turned away because the system is offline. Minister Aaron Motsoaledi came under fire from some opposition parties in the National Assembly for what they say is the chaotic state of the Home Affairs department. V.5624

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Home Affairs commits to re-opening Cape Town Refugee Centre in 10 months

The Department of Home Affairs has committed to opening the Cape Town Refugee Reception Office (CTRRO) in ten months. This has been accepted by the Scalabrini Centre and others who took the matter of the office’s closure to court. This comes as the department conceded that it was in breach of a Supreme Court of Appeal ruling that it needed to reopen the centre, and never did. V.5600

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Home Affairs 2021/22 Annual Performance Plan; with Ministry Annual Performance Plans

Chairperson: Mr M Chabane (ANC) (Acting) Meeting Summary The Department of Home Affairs (DHA) virtual briefing on its 2021/22 Annual Performance Plan and budget emphasised its underfunding and the challenges that COVID-19 has brought. V.5681

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Recent case law on statelessness in South Africa �` Mulowayi v Minister for Home Affairs

Mulowayi v Minister of Home Affairs is an appeal to the South African Constitutional Court from a decision of the High Court of South Africa dealing with the validity of a regulation amending the South African Citizenship Act 2010 1. V.5625

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Upon application to the Minister of Home Affairs, the Minister may under terms and conditions determined by him or her allow distinguished visitors or members of his/her family to be administered and sojourn in South Africa and or waive any prescribed (regulatory) requirements for good cause and/or grant any foreigner or category of foreigners the rights of permanent residence for a specified or unspecified period when special circumstances exist justifying such a decision. V.5626

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Work visa requirements for South Africa immigration

Work visa requirements for South African immigration Background to Work Visa for South African Immigration South Africa offers a number of options for those who are seeking a Work Visa for the purposes of South African immigration. Similar to other countries the Work Visa legislation focuses on two main areas: V.5586

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Applying for Critical Skills Work Visa for South Africa

Applying for Critical Skills Work Visa for South Africa The critical skills work visa was a very welcome addition, in June 2014, to the types of work visas that a prospective immigrant may consider to apply for. V.5587

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Corporate Visas �` Immigration South Africa

Corporate Visas Immigration South Africa A corporate visa can only be issued to South African registered company or branch (the applicant) and it offers the possibility to employ great numbers of employees from abroad, all under the remit of one application. V.5588

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Corporate Workers Visa / Corporate workers certificate

Corporate Workers Visa Corporate workers certificate Where a company is in possession of a valid corporate work visa, it has in effect a permission to recruit a certain number of foreign workers, into specific positions for finite period of time. V.5589

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Critical skills work visa for South Africa

Critical skills work visa permit for South Africa Welcome to the critical skills work visa and permit category. For those potential applicants for a work visa or permit to South Africa, and even those existing work permit or visa holders, this category of work visa may well be great news. V.5590

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General Work Visa

General Work Visa A General Work Visa South Africa, is one of 5 types of work visa categories that you can make a work visa application under. Unlike the others types of work visa, the general work visa requires that the employer has made every attempt to try to fill their vacant position with either a South African Citizen or permanent resident. Below we give you 10 important facts you need to know about a General Work Visa South Africa. V.5591

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Intra-company Transfers

Intra company Transfers An Intra-company transfer is a type of work visa that allows for a staff member to transfer from an overseas company to a branch, subsidiary or affiliated business that is operating in South Africa. Who should apply for an Intra-company transfer work visa? V.5592

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Don’t Be Declared “Undesirable”

SA Visa Many tourists have been thrown into the deep end as Home Affairs implement South African visa changes overnight. I’m sure by now many of you have read or heard about the recent rules that have come into effect for the SA Visa. After doing some research I decided to gather some information together to try and put your minds at ease and make sure you are aware of how to avoid being declared an “undesirable” person. V.5598

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Cost-cutting: South Africa to close ten embassies, consulates

Ten South African diplomatic missions are set to be axed to save costs. The South African government is expected to cut 10 of its diplomatic missions abroad, as a money-saving measure. V.5599

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South Africa must be cognisant attracting skills happens against backdrop of global demand

While South Africa is seeking critically skilled individuals, recent reports have shown that the number of South Africans seeking opportunities abroad has increased significantly over the past five to ten years owing to concerns about South Africa`s low economic growth, independent immigration services provider Xpatweb director Marisa Jacobs tells Engineering News. V.5596

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Govt has a new plan to boost SA`s dagga industry

Government has proposed a draft national master plan which aims to loosen regulations in the cannabis industry to promote economic development. • It wants to help create export markets for dagga growers. • Government plans to amend legislation to remove existing constraints that hinder commercialisation. V.5597

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Luxury homes back in demand, foreign buyers getting back into SA market

A penthouse in the V&A Waterfront in Cape Town sold for R45 million. * *The low interest rate seemed to have little impact on the luxury housing market, but this seems to be changing.* * *There has also been in increase in foreign buyers looking for and buying property in SA.* * *The March Lightstone Residential Property Index shows that annual house price inflation was 4.0% at the end of February 2021 signifying a positive increase from the previous month.* V.5593

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Over 150 000 asylum seekers in SA to finally have cases heard

Cape Town �` More than 153 000 asylum seekers in South Africa who have been waiting for years for a decision on their applications for refugee status will have their cases heard following an agreement between the UN Human Rights Council, the UN High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR) and the Department of Home Affairs to eliminate delays and clear backlogs. This as the UNHCR says refugees in Cape Town have approached them for support in rejoining the community, while others have expressed an interest in returning to their home countries V.5595

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Retired Permit / Visa �` South Africa

A retired permit, visa, as a means of immigration to South Africa, is granted to immigrants wishing to spend their retirement years in South Africa. For immigration to South Africa, under the category of a retired permit, the criteria is based on the premise that the immigrant is not looking to work, study or carry out their own business. V.5584

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Department of Home Affairs flouts court orders, year after year

Still no functional refugee reception office in Cape Town. Home Affairs still does not serve new applicants in Cape Town despite a Supreme Court of Appeal ruling that says it must reopen and maintain a fully functional refugee reception office. V.5585

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Foreigners show record interest in SA companies at investor conference

Bank of America Securities says Clicks was the most sought-after company by foreign investors in terms of meeting requests The Bank of America Securities says its Sun City investor conference this month broke all previous records in terms of investor attendance. V.5579

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Life Partner Permit South Africa

A life partner permit is an application based upon the individuals relationship with a South African for permanent residence. Who should apply for a life partner permit South Africa? Applications for a life partner permit should be made by those individuals who are in a permanent relationship with a South African citizen or Permanent Residence holder. V.5582

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Relatives permit / visa for immigration to South Africa

Relatives permit visa for immigration to South Africa Considering immigration to South Africa and have relatives already here? Below we discuss the relatives permit / visa option, how to apply and who qualifies. V.5583

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Three months` rent or a ticket back home? Cape Town refugee, asylum seeker groups must decide

The Cape Town refugees and asylum seekers living in two large tents in Cape Town have been given a two week deadline to leave. They must choose between getting three months` rent and food to help them get back on their feet, or a free ticket back to their country of origin. V.5580

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Luxury homes back in demand, foreign buyers getting back into SA market

A penthouse in the V&A Waterfront in Cape Town sold for R45 million. The low interest rate seemed to have little impact on the luxury housing market, but this seems to be changing. V.5581

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Home Affairs plan to extend working hours to deal with backlog

There may be good news on the horizon for frustrated South Africans heading to Home Affairs in the future. Home Affairs is planning a big change by extending their working hours into the weekend to help deal with the current backlogs. V.5594

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Brothers born of Angolan parents have right to South African citizenship: Supreme Court

The Supreme Court of Appeal has dismissed an appeal by the minister of home affairs, who was ordered by the high court in Pretoria last year to grant citizenship to two brothers born in SA of foreign parents in the 1990s. V.5578

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What is a Ministerial Waiver / Exemption and how does it work

Upon application to the Minister of Home Affairs, the Minister may under terms and conditions determined by him or her allow distinguished visitors or members of his/her family to be administered and sojourn in South Africa and or waive any prescribed (regulatory) requirements for good cause and/or grant any foreigner or category of foreigners the rights of permanent residence for a specified or unspecified period when special circumstances exist justifying such a decision. V.5576

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What is a Ministerial Waiver / Exemption and how does it work

Upon application to the Minister of Home Affairs, the Minister may under terms and conditions determined by him or her allow distinguished visitors or members of his/her family to be administered and sojourn in South Africa and or waive any prescribed (regulatory) requirements for good cause and/or grant any foreigner or category of foreigners the rights of permanent residence for a specified or unspecified period when special circumstances exist justifying such a decision. V.5577

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Overstay / Undesirable / VLIST Ban Issued for 5 Years . Can I appeal !!

Overstaying one’s visa is a common occurrence among people who applied to extend their visa in South Africa and said visa not issued in time for travel . In recent months overstaying one visa has moved from being a minor inconvenience to a possible criminal offence with potentially serious ramifications. The changes brought about by the new immigration laws have made overstaying ones visa a very serious affair which needs a careful and smart approach to remedy. V.5574

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Prohibited Persons Status ( Vlisting ) and how to uplift a Prohibited Persons Status

The Immigration Act and the Department of Home Affairs abhors fraudulent documents. Section 29(1)(f) provides ; The following foreigners are prohibited person and do not qualify for a port of entry visa, admission into the republic , visa or a permanent residence permit … anyone found in possession of a fraudulent visa, passport , permanent residence permit or identification document. V.5575

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Phiri siblings still struggling to get their IDs from Home Affairs

The Home Affairs Department has been sending the siblings from pillar to post, demanding that they provide DNA evidence that they are related to the woman they call their grandmother. The North West Home Affairs Department has come under heavy criticism for failing to assist two young men who have been struggling to get their identity documents for years. V.5572

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Advocates slam partner visa English test as a `paternalistic` measure that will keep families apart

Partner visa language test will only affect people who apply after the changes are introduced mid-next year. The Department of Home Affairs says adding an English language requirement for partner visa applicants would protect people in family violence situations. V.5570

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Vaccinated US citizens get green light for travel

In a landmark move the US Centre for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has updated its advisory policy, opening up travel for US citizens that have been fully vaccinated. V.5571

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The US just opened its borders to South Africans with these jobs or visas

• The US has added further exemptions for foreign travellers looking to enter that country amid its ongoing travel ban. • Under the National Interest Exceptions protocol, certain visa holders and exchange visitors may travel to the US. • This applies to specialised teachers and au pairs in South Africa. • It also includes immigrant and fiancé(e) K-1 visas, which require a US citizen sponsor. V.5573

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VFS Global issues update on visa application operations in India

VFS Global, the visa outsourcing and technology services company, has issued an update on restarting visa application services in India since June 2020. Currently, the visa application process (in various categories) for over 40 governments has resumed at select visa application centres across India. V.5569

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SARS busts diplomats for allegedly selling illicit alcohol, cheating taxman out of R100m per month

Foreign diplomats are allegedly selling illicit liquor, cheating SARS of taxes totalling more than R100 million every month. Investigations by tax authorities have singled out diplomats from Ghana, Rwanda, Guinea, Burundi and Lesotho for being involved in tax crimes involving the sale of duty free liquor. V.5566

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Motsoaledi`s statements on Atul Gupta`s SA passport request are `legally flawed`, says lawyer

Atul Gupta is seeking to have his South African passport issued. The Department of Home Affairs is opposing the application Gupta`s legal team has filed a court application, seeking an order ompelling the director-general and home affairs minister to furnish his record of decision for refusing the passport. V.5567

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Why do South African students fare worse at maths than their counterparts in other countries?

South African students are bad at maths compared to other countries. This is clear from results of South African learners in the International Mathematics and Science Study. The results show that South Africa’s performance is far from competitive in relation to other countries. V.5568

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Here are the 10 critical skills needed in South Africa right now

A critical skills survey conducted by Xpatweb highlights the most in-demand ‘scarce’ skills in the country, which has led to businesses seeking talent recruitment from abroad. V.5564

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533 million Facebook users` phone numbers and personal data have been leaked online

The personal data of over 500 million Facebook users has been posted online in a low-level hacking forum. • The data includes phone numbers, full names, location, email address, and biographical information. • Security researchers warn that the data could be used by hackers to impersonate people and commit fraud. A user in a low level hacking forum has published the phone numbers and personal data of hundreds of millions of Facebook users for free online. V.5565

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Scalabrini’s ‘abandonment’ court case challenges constitutionality of South African refugee laws

Scalabrini Centre in Court seeking an interdict against the Department of Home Affairs, in first step to challenging the constitutionality of the Refugee Amendment Act’s ‘deemed abandonment’ provisions. V.5559

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COVID liability: What to do when COVID-19 strikes your hotel or guesthouse

While accommodation establishments grapple with record low occupancy levels, slow recovery, and health and safety protocols, there is another worry looming in the background �` how do you protect yourself from potential COVID-19 litigation? Is an accommodation establishment liable if a guest falls ill? And what steps can an establishment take to make sure they are never on the wrong side of a negligence claim? Insurers offer cover for pretty much any incident, accident or sudden illness on your property; they no longer offer liability cover for COVID-related cases �` leaving clients vulnerable to a potential lawsuit. V.5560

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New Zealand issues timeline for resumption of visa processing Immigration New Zealand has outlined the way forward for the restart of its visa processing services.

Many South African families have been forced to live apart for up to a year now as a result of New Zealand’s extended border closure and the halting of its visa issuing processes. There is however good news on the horizon for South Africans who have been desperately trying to get to New Zealand. The country’s immigration department has revealed a timeline for the expected dates of its visa processing restart. V.5561

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Asylum/refugee visas Extended to 30 June 2021

If your asylum seeker permit or refugee status has expired, or is due to expire, during lockdown (from 15 March 2020 onwards), it is considered to have been extended up to, and including, 30 June 2021. This was officially confirmed by Directions and Amended Directions Gazetted by the Department of Home Affairs. You can read these Directions and Amended Directions V.5554

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Why using an Immigration Consultancy is absolutely Vital

Whoever said that immigration is a piece of cake clearly paid an arm and a leg for the slice. The immigration process is incredibly case specific to the point that if it is not handled properly, it can immediately end with a negative outcome. Today, we discuss the reasons why you, as a person or as an organisation, should make use of an immigration consultancy for all the nitty gritty details that the immigration process has to offer. V.5556

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What is a Notarial Contract and why do I need one for a Life Partner Visa?

“The notarial contract is a formal agreement entered into by a South African citizen/permanent resident and a foreign partner, notarised by a South African notary, setting out the details of their rights and privileges in terms of their relationship V.5557

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Cape Town hailed as one of the world`s 50 best places to work from remotely

The Bo-Kaap in Cape Town. The fact that the city is `chock-full of colourful markets and quirky neighbourhoods` makes it a drawcard for digital natives, says Big 7 Travel. V.5558

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Travel ban in place - Travel to Germany and visa applications under Covid-19 restrictions

In a move to prevent the introduction of SARS-CoV2-variants, the German Government on 30th January 2021 has imposed a general ban on travel and entry from countries with widespread occurrence of such virus variants (referred to as areas of variant of concern). These include South Africa, Eswatini and Lesotho. V.5562

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Home affairs extends visas that expired in lockdown

Home affairs minister Aaron Motsoaledi has issued directions extending the validity period of legally issued visas that expired during the Covid-19 lockdown period. V.5555

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Details emerge about how Bushiris escaped

*Self-styled prophet Shepherd’s ‘lover’ helped him and his wife reach the Beit bridge border* Self-proclaimed Malawian prophet Shepherd Bushiri allegedly fled South Africa through Zimbabwe with the assistance of his 27-year-old “lover”. V.5553

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Breaking News !!! �` online renewal of refugee status and asylum seeker permits /visas

The Directions are hereby amended by the substitution for the date 31 March 2021 referred to in these paragraphs, of the date 30 June 2021, as the date until which the validity of visas and permits is extended Home Affairs have published the most recent Directions `17H. SERVICES TO BE RENDERED BY DEPARTMENT OF HOME AFFAIRS UNDER ALERT LEVEL 1 V.5546

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Breaking News !!! �` Visas that expired during Lockdown extended till 30 June 2021

The extension of the validity of visas or permits (a) applies to visas issued for a period of less than 90 days which expired during the national state of disaster; V.5547

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Government prioritises wealthy investor visas

Money talks if you want permanent residency in Australia. There has never been a better time for rich foreign investors to buy residency in Australia, after the federal government quietly pushed ultra-wealthy applicants to the front of the line. V.5544

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US visa pandemic-based entry bans affect European travelers

Pandemic-based US visa and entry bans, originally imposed by former American President Donald Trump, have actually become tougher in some respects under Biden. In the Schengen Area, UK and Ireland it has become more difficult to receive National Interest Exceptions (NIEs) and thereby avoid the long COVID-19 backlog of visa applications. V.5551

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Motsoaledi’s smoke and mirrors crusade against immigrants is at odds with basic human rights

The standard definition of the ‘noble lie’, a concept originated by Plato in his ‘Republic’ published in 375 BC, is a myth or untruth purposefully and knowingly propagated by the ruling class to maintain social harmony or to advance an agenda. Home Affairs Minister Aaron Motsoaledi is a master of it. V.5541

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Ghana faces parliamentary paralysis as Akufo-Addo enters second term

After a disputed election, bitter relations between political parties and a hung Parliament will test governance processes. On 4 March, Ghana’s Supreme Court unanimously ruled to uphold the second term victory of president Nana Akufo-Addo in the 7 December 2020 general elections. Akufo-Addo’s opponent and immediate past predecessor John Dramani Mahama, who had challenged the results in court and argued for a rerun, criticised the decision. V.5548

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At last! Home Affairs plans to finally make services digital The Department of Home Affairs is introducing digital services to ensure a credible population register, not vulnerable to theft and fraud.

Good news for South Africans, the days of standing on those long queues and spending hours at Home Affairs will soon be a thing of the past! V.5552

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Department of Home Affairs continues to flout refugee court orders, year after year

Home Affairs still does not serve new applicants in Cape Town despite a Supreme Court of Appeal ruling that says it must reopen and maintain a fully functional refugee reception office. Still no functional refugee reception office in Cape Town nor evidence of future progress. V.5542

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Home Affairs plans to go ‘paperless’ in South Africa �` here are the changes you can expect

Home Affairs minister Aaron Motsoaledi says that his department is working on a number of tech-focused features, with plans to take some services digital V.5543

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Alleged arms dealer Alexander Zingman arrested in DRC

Businessman with links to Belarus strongman Alexander Lukashenko was arrested by Congolese police in Lubumbashi on Wednesday after meeting with former president Joseph Kabila. V.5549

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Home Affairs signs deal with UN refugee agency to deal with asylum seekers backlog

As of the 2019/20 financial year, the Refugee Appeal Authority of SA says the backlog stood at more than 153 000. The new deal with the **United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees will see around R147 million given to RAASA and technical support to eliminate this backlog. The number of people now who must be cleared via this backlog is 163 000. V.5535

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Nigeria suspends Emirates flights over COVID-19 tests

ABUJA, March 22 (Reuters) - Nigeria suspended the airline Emirates from flying into or out of its territory last week after the carrier imposed additional COVID-19 test requirements on passengers from the country, the aviation minister said on Monday. V.5545

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Retirement? What retirement? Why we need to work into our twilight years �` and how

‘We still haven’t figured out a proper way to harness the skills and knowledge of retirees to mentor and build the skills of new labour market entrants,’ says one expert. Here, we look at what retirement means in 2021 in South Africa. V.5550

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Foreigner everywhere, citizen nowhere: The prohibitive and hostile barriers of being stateless in SA

Since arriving in South Africa two decades ago, Primrose Modisane has never been outside of Gauteng. She says once she gets her ID she would like to go back to school to finish matric, open a bank account and get her driver’s licence. V.5538

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The Home Affairs Department to offer birth registration service at health facilities throughout the country over the Human Rights Day long weekend

The Department of Home Affairs will be offering birth registration services this Human Rights Day weekend at health facilities nationwide. The registration weekend is held to assist parents to register their children within 30 days of birth as is required by the law. V.5534

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Virtual Office and Remote Working

Why only 1 office and remote working during lockdown Covid 19 Like many businesses in South Africa , Covid 19 has had a devasting effect on how they function in terms of staffing and how many people are allowed inside the office at a time. V.5529

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Europe`s third Covid wave on the way as hospitalisations mount, Italy in lockdown

• Germany, Italy, and other countries in Europe enforced new lockdown measures as COVID-19 cases rise. • Infectious disease expert Lothar Wieler said the third COVID-19 wave in Germany had `already begun.` • Much of Europe has lagged behind the US and the UK in rolling out the COVID-19 vaccine. V.5533

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Smart cities promote best practice in urban sustainability

According to Carshif Talip, expertise leader, Urban Planning and Land Infrastructure at Zutari, a `smart city` is much more than a city that is digitally enabled and brimming with technology. It is a city that leverages innovation to achieve its desired outcomes, Talip says, and here innovation does not necessarily mean only technology. V.5540

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Government’s plan to save South Africa �` including changes for visas, businesses, and reducing load shedding

National Treasury has published its updated ‘Operation Vulindlela’ plan, detailing the government’s strategy to boost the economy after the Covid-19 pandemic. First announced by president Cyril Ramaphosa in parliament in October 2020, Operation Vulindlela is a joint initiative of the Presidency and National Treasury. V.5536

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UK’s updated ‘red list’ for travel causes more headaches for South Africans

The United Kingdom has added Ethiopia, Oman, Somalia and Qatar to its travel ‘red list’, to protect the country against new variants of Covid-19. V.5528

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So much to do in Cape Town �` the non-beach options

President Cyril Ramaphosa’s recent address, which confirmed that South Africa would remain on Alert Level three �` extending the closure of South Africa’s beaches, parks, dams and rivers, and continuing the ongoing ban on all alcohol sales �` has somewhat dampened enthusiasm for Cape Town holidays. However, a family visit to the Cape this month revealed that there are still dozens of things to do in the region, which pose a very low risk of exposure to COVID-19. The region has been emptied of international tourists, which made us feel that we had the place to ourselves. Some options that remain open for visitors to enjoy include: V.5530

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The ‘quick’ visa South Africans are using to move to the US

With major industry, excellent job prospects and sound investment opportunities, the states of Florida and Texas are currently the most popular destinations where South Africans applying for residency and then citizenship via the USA’s Immigrant Investor EB-5 Programme, says Dr Andrew Golding, chief executive of the Pam Golding Property group. V.5532

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No end in sight to DHA’s biometrics tender furore

There is no end in sight as yet for the controversial Department of Home Affairs (DHA) biometrics tender, as the parliamentary committee on home affairs on Friday deferred the matter to a later date after power cuts disrupted a crucial meeting. V.5539

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Thousands to face visa renewal hurdles after being cut from critical skills list

New bill looks set to create serious challenges for skilled foreigners already working in SA Thousands of skilled people working in SA could face visa renewal challenges, or even be forced to leave the country, if their job descriptions have been cut from the latest SA critical skills list, which has just been released for public comment. V.5531

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I`m pregnant. What visa options are available to let my boyfriend stay in SA longer than 3 months?

A life partner visa is a temporary residence permit that a foreigner who is not married but is in a permanent relationship with a South African citizen can apply for. V.5527

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Illegal in South Africa - Lockdown �` Cannot get asylum - Law enforcement bothering you - Legal Immigration Services

We have assisted many illegal foreigners who have been arrested by law enforcement officials and they are now free !!! Under lockdown there is much confusion about what the rights of an illegal foreigner who cannot apply for asylum or is being hassled and harassed by the police , SAPS. V.5525

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Home Affairs, UN Refugee Agency project seeks to clear SA asylum seeker backlog

CAPE TOWN - Asylum applications could be streamlined with the launch of the Asylum Backlog Project. It`s a joint endeavour by the Home Affairs Department and the UN Refugee Agency. V.5523

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Controversial law to restrict foreign workers in South Africa

Employment and Labour minister Thulas Nxesi says that his department will introduce a new labour migration policy that regulates foreign workers in South Africa. V.5524

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Controversial law to restrict foreign workers in South Africa

Employment and Labour minister Thulas Nxesi says that his department will introduce a new labour migration policy that regulates foreign workers in South Africa. V.5526

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new OCI notification, India has ended its experiment with dual citizenship

The notification introduces a series of restrictions that dramatically curtails the rights and liberties of OCIs in India. V.5521

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Home Affairs, UN Refugee Agency project seeks to clear SA asylum seeker backlog

CAPE TOWN - Asylum applications could be streamlined with the launch of the Asylum Backlog Project. It`s a joint endeavour by the Home Affairs Department and the UN Refugee Agency. It aims to eliminate the backlog in South Africa’s asylum system by 2024. V.5563

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New bill aims to make it easier to do business in South Africa

The opposition Democratic Alliance has tabled its Ease of Doing Business Bill which is aimed at cutting and reducing red tape associated with doing business in South Africa. V.5519

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Resumption of services at Home Affairs offices �` Level 1 �` from 4 March 2021

Following the President’s announcement that the country has moved to Alert Level 1, we have decided that more services will be resumed tomorrow, Thursday, 04 March 2021. The Citizenship service remains temporarily unavailable. V.5518

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South Africa’s new ID system will track you from birth

The Department of Home Affairs (DHA) says that it is working with the Council for Scientific and Industrial Research on a biometrics system that is close to being finalised. V.5520

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International travel from England still banned as Boris Johnson announces easing of lockdown

UK Primer Minister Boris Johnson has announced a phased plan for easing England`s lockdown. • International travel is still, however, barred. • England has, meanwhile, began vaccinations. V.5522

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MEDIA STATEMENT ON THE ESTABLISHMENT OF A TASK TEAM TO REVIEW CERTAIN PERMITS ISSUED BY THE DEPARTMENT

Three weeks ago, in a meeting of the Portfolio Committee on Home Affairs, I announced my intention to set up a task team to review some permits that were issued by the Department over the years. I identified the need to review the permits after realising a trend emerging from the outcomes of cases involving prominent people investigated by the Department’s Counter Corruption Unit, which investigates wrongdoing by departmental officials. V.5517

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Home affairs minister launches probe into permits issued since 2004

Home affairs minister launches probe into permits issued since 2004 Home affairs minister Aaron Motsoaledi has appointed a team of experts to review several categories of permits and visas issued since May 2004, when the Immigration Act came into force, until December 2020 to determine if they were granted regularly. All permanent residence permits, corporate permits (especially in the mining industry), study visas, work permits for professionals, citizen naturalisation and retirement visas issued over this period will be examined. V.5515

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Home affairs minister launches probe into permits issued since 2004

Home affairs minister Aaron Motsoaledi has appointed a team of experts to review several categories of permits and visas issued since May 2004, when the Immigration Act came into force, until December 2020 to determine if they were granted regularly. V.5516

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Fort Hare professor expelled from SA over bigamous marriage PhD graduate who renounced his Nigerian citizenship has nowhere to go

Edwin Okey Chikata Ijeoma, a professor of public sector economics at the University of Fort Hare, had his citizenship revoked by the ministry of home affairs after he fraudulently relied on a bigamous marriage to a South African woman to obtain naturalisation and citizenship. V.5514

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Europe looks to crack open data encryption on messaging services like WhatsApp

• End-to-end encryption is a security tool used by some apps and services �` including WhatsApp, Signal and Facebook Messenger �` to provide a greater level of privacy. • Messages sent using this tool are encrypted before they leave the sender’s phone or computer, with a key unique to the devices at either end of an exchange. V.5511

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Here`s SA`s draft new critical skills list, aimed at attracting foreigners

South Africa`s critical skills list includes a long list of engineering jobs. Government has compiled a new proposed list of critical skills, which should make it easier for some overseas workers to get visas to work and live in South Africa. V.5512

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In the City of Cape Town? Here`s an alternative to standing in queues for vehicle licences

•*The licence grace period has been extended.* •*Vehicle, learners` and driving licences which expired between 26 March 2020 and 28 February 2021 will be valid until 31 August.* •*Third party services could renew your vehicle licence on your behalf. V.5507

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More people are taking their money out of South Africa �` what you should know

The current climate of economic and political uncertainty means that wealthier South Africans are moving significant amounts of money out of the country, either through offshore investments or through physical migration, says Tim Powell, forex director at Sable International. V.5510

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Victory in the SCA for two brothers after a gruelling struggle for their birthright

In a satisfying victory for our Pro Bono & Human Rights Practice, on Wednesday 25 November, the Supreme Court of Appeal (the SCA) resoundingly dismissed the Department of Home Affairs (DHA) appeal against the judgment of the Gauteng High Court in the matter of the Minister of Home Affairs and Others v Jose and Another (169/2020 [2020] ZASCA 152 (25 November 2020). The High Court had found in the brothers’ favour and ordered the Minister to grant them citizenship within 10 days of its order. V.5499

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Home Affairs Minister Dr Aaron Motsoaledi leads the deployment of senior managers of the Department to key land border posts following Cabinet approval of the reopening of the land borders on 15 February 2021

The Home Affairs Minister Dr Aaron Motsoaledi is scheduled to be at Lebombo Border Post, Deputy Minister Mr Njabulo Nzuza at Beitbridge and Director General Mr Tommy Makhode at Maseru Bridge and Ficksburg on Monday, 15 February 2021 when the land ports of entry reopen. The Minister, Deputy Minister and the Director General are visiting the four busiest land ports to monitor the implementation of plans to process travellers through the ports. V.5502

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Land borders to open Monday, with new rules. SA to ban those with fake Covid certificates for years

• After being closed for more than a month, SA`s twenty biggest land border posts will reopen on Monday. • New rules have been implemented to prevent the `super-spreader` congestion at these posts. Twenty South African land borders that have been closed for more a month, will re-open on Monday. On Saturday, cabinet gave the go-ahead for the reopening for these border posts: V.5506

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Home Affairs vows to crackdown on back-door granting of visas, permits

Home Affairs Minister Aaron Motsoaledi is reviewing some of the permits which were granted irregularly over the years. The Department of Home Affairs says the minister will leave no stone unturned in uncovering the `dubious` visas, permits and special citizenships that were irregularly granted. * The department says Motsoaledi will `unpack the full details of his ntervention` in the coming days. V.5492

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Home Affairs vows to crackdown on back-door granting of visas, permits

Home Affairs Minister Aaron Motsoaledi is reviewing some of the permits which were granted irregularly over the years. The Department of Home Affairs says the minister will leave no stone unturned in uncovering the `dubious` visas, permits and special citizenships that were irregularly granted. V.5493

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Home Affairs vows to crackdown on back-door granting of visas, permits

Home Affairs Minister Aaron Motsoaledi is reviewing some of the permits which were granted irregularly over the years. The Department of Home Affairs says the minister will leave no stone unturned in uncovering the `dubious` visas, permits and special citizenships that were irregularly granted. * The department says Motsoaledi will `unpack the full details of his ntervention` in the coming days. V.5495

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How to Retire in South Africa: Costs, Visas and More

Home to both lively landscapes and a highly diverse and fascinating culture, South Africa stands out as a place of opportunity for many potential retirees. Bask in a glowing sun while out on the golf course or relax in the shade on a beach. If you are a foodie or oenophile, you can enjoy this country’s culinary treats and excellent wines. Between all the things to do and see, this southernmost African nation, where English is widely spoken, can sound like a dream. So, if you’re considering how to retire in South Africa here are a few areas to look into first. A financial advisor can help you determine if your U.S.-based assets will cover expenses in the Rainbow Nation. Cost of Living and Housing V.5504

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Ramaphosa`s e-visa announcement: Tourism leaders warn it cannot be that of 2-years ago

The challenge with the e-visa is not just to try and get it on the level other country`s already have.The challenge with the e-visa is not just to try and get it on the levelother country`s already have. In his State of the Nation Address, President Cyril Ramaphosa said work is under way to reform the country`s visa regime. Two years ago he mentioned the development of e-visas in his then SONA address.Tourism leaders caution that changes cannot just be the e-visas envisioned in 2019. V.5505

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STATE OF THE NATION ADDRESS BY PRESIDENT CYRIL RAMAPHOSA

V.5494

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Motsoaledi directed to consider amending naturalisation rules to comply with law

JOHANNESBURG - The Public Protector said the Home Affairs minister must consider amending naturalisation regulations to ensure compliance and effective administration of the law. This formed part of the remedial action set down in a report, which made adverse findings against former minister Malusi Gigaba regarding the naturalisation of the Guptas, albeit that it cleared him of abusing his power. V.5491

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Brits returning from SA must pay R35,000 for quarantine hotel, face jail for lying about trip

The UK has announced stricter travel rules with harsher punishments for non-compliance, which will come into effect on Monday 15 February. This extends to travellers from South Africa, who will have to foot the bill for their mandatory quarantine stay at around R3,500 a day. V.5513

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Test-08 ASYLUM SEEKERS PERMIT EXPIRED during LOCKDOWN

ASYLUM SEEKERS PERMIT EXPIRED during LOCKDOWN - Don`t know what to do ? Apply Now for Temporary Residence even with EXPIRED LOCKDOWN PERMITS The Co
titutional Court handed down a judgement in the Ahm V.5490

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Public Health confirmed that departures would be closely monitored and that persons leaving Switzerland will be kept separate from others using the airport.

This decision was revised, allowing for limited flight operations from Thursday 24 December to `allow persons resident in the UK and South Africa to return home for Christmas`. The Swiss Federal Office of Additionally, return flights into Switzerland, from the UK and South Africa, will only be offered to Swiss citizens or holders of a Swiss residence permit or type D visa from Switzerland. These flights will need to be preapproved by the Swiss Federal Office of Civil Aviation and citizens looking to return home have been urged to contact their preferred airline directly. Mauritius V.5476

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Cancelling-a-lease-agreement-during-covid-19

2020 was an unpredictable year, to say the least. Each new week seemed to hold its own uncertainties and concerns. And in 2021, the world is still adjusting. In such times, it is important for tenants of residential property to know what their rights are in terms of premature cancellation of lease agreements that may be necessitated by COVID-19, the pursuant lockdown regulations and general change of personal circumstances. V.5474

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Who are SA`s unpaid frontline workers

V.5475

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Young adults born in SA denied right to apply for citizenship

Undocumented migrant children attend a class at the Refugee Social Services at the Diakonia Centre in Durban. (Photo: Leila Dougan / Daily Maverick) Less Citizenship as a tool of exclusion was a staple of apartheid-era oppression in South Africa. V.5478

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EXTENSION OF VALIDITY OF ASYLUM SEEKER AND REFUGEE PERMITS TO 31ST of MARCH 2021

EXTENSION OF VALIDITY OF ASYLUM SEEKER AND REFUGEE PERMITS TO 31ST of MARCH 2021 1. Validity of asylum seeker and refugee permits Following the announcement by the President of the Republic of South Africa to put the country on adjusted alert level 3, the Minister of Home Affairs issued the Direction on the 14th of January 2021 regarding services that will be provided by the Department of Home Affairs. The Directions in paragraph 2.1 thereof made reference to the extension of the validity of visas and permits that were issued by DHA V.5470

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South Africa: Parliament On ICT Issues At Home Affairs and Long Queues

Failure to resolve ICT challenges at Home Affairs contributes to long queues The Portfolio Committee on Home Affairs has expressed its disappointment in the failure of the Department of Home Affairs to resolve the perennial Information Technology (IT) challenges that continue to hamper its ability to deliver quality services. V.5473

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Permanent Residence Permit for South Africa

What is a permanent resident permit in relation to South Africa? South African law provides for two kinds of visa categories temporary and permanent. A temporary status is called a visa and a permanent residence dispensation is called a permit. V.5477

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Visa renewal victory for asylum seekers

Cape Town �` A Western Cape High Court judgment will come as a relief to many asylum seekers who have been unable to renew their visas for valid reasons. V.5479

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Immigrate to the UK from South Africa in 2021

The UK remains the preferred destination for South Africans looking for great employment opportunities, a high standard of education and a good quality of life. V.5480

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Ireland suspends visa-free travel from South Africa �` and arrivals must stay in `quarantine hotel`

• Ireland has suspended visa-free travel from South Africa, amid concern about its more contagious Covid variant. • Visitors with valid visas still face two weeks in a state-run “quarantine hotel”. V.5481

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Home affairs sets new deadline to deliver biometrics project

The Department of Home Affairs (DHA) is looking to conclude its biometrics tender by the end of the year. So says Siya Qoza, DHA ministerial spokesperson, after the department received a preliminary forensic investigation report into the awarding of the botched Automated Biometric Identification System (ABIS) tender. V.5472

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Why only 1 office and remote working during lockdown Covid 19

Like many businesses in South Africa , Covid 19 has had a devasting effect on how they function in terms of staffing and how many people are allowed inside the office at a time . V.5466

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Social Media complaints

Often our team is confronted by feedback such as I noticed on social media that people complained on Facebook and Google , but when you look at our statistics for example on Facebook we have 150,000 likes and on Google 330 reviews with a 94 % approval rate and this tells us that we are doing a very good job and of course there is always room for improvement . V.5467

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Where should I register my baby`s birth under lockdown Level 3?

The Department of Home Affairs has announced that along with several other changes to services it provides the registration of births will no longer occur at Home Affairs offices. V.5469

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Finally the Courts have spoken , if you are a refugee or asylum seeker , above 18 and your parents were not South African you may qualify for Citizenship

The courts have pronounced on this section of the Act “ Section 4(3) of the Act, which came into operation on 1 January 2013, sets out requirements for citizenship by naturalisation, as follows: V.5453

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Permanent Residence via Child now permitted in South Africa

Did you know that you may apply for permanent residence if you are a relative ( parent ) of citizen or permanent residence holder within first level of kinship . V.5457

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You on a Zimbabwean ZEP Visa , have a family here or back home , wife and children in SA

- no status �` there is a way for them to join you legally Our dynamic team of immigration consultants provide specialist advice on temporary residence visas, permanent residence permits, appeals on rejected applications, undesirable declaration waivers, V-listing and legal immigration services. V.5460

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You are on an Angolan Dispensation Permanent Residence Visa , have a family here or back home , wife and children in SA - no status

�` there is a way for them to join you legally Our dynamic team of immigration consultants provide specialist advice on temporary residence visas, permanent residence permits, appeals on rejected applications, undesirable declaration waivers, V-listing and legal immigration services. V.5461

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Home Affairs - approved in country extensions of the minister of Home affairs

Home Affairs - approved in country extensions of The Minister of Home Affairs, PA Motsoaledi, has approved in country extensions of Intra-Company Transfer (ICT) Visas, provided the following conditions are met V.5463

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Home Affairs suspends certain services

The DHA has suspended the application for smart IDs, with the exception of matriculants applying for IDs. A long queue outside the Department of Home Affairs in Port Shepstone on Monday this week. Most in the queue were there to register deaths. The Department of Home Affairs (DHA) has announced the suspension of several services rendered under level 3 lockdown as the number of death certificates being issued by the department has been on the increase. V.5464

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Where should I register my baby`s birth under lockdown Level 3?

The Department of Home Affairs has announced that along with several other changes to services it provides the registration of births will no longer occur at Home Affairs offices. Instead, births are to be `registered at the health facilities where they occur. These are the 156 health facilities with Home Affairs office presence,` Minister Aaron Motsoaledi noted in a statement. V.5465

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Home Affairs suspends certain services

The DHA has suspended the application for smart IDs, with the exception of matriculants applying for IDs. A long queue outside the Department of Home Affairs in Port Shepstone on Monday this week. Most in the queue were there to register deaths. The Department of Home Affairs (DHA) has announced the suspension of several services rendered under level 3 lockdown as the number of death certificates being issued by the department has been on the increase. V.5468

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Permanent Residence via Child now permitted in South Africa

Did you know that you may apply for permanent residence if you are a relative ( parent ) of citizen or permanent residence holder within first level of kinship . In other words you can apply via your child . V.5450

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Court victory for “invisible, undocumented children”

Fathers to be able to register the births of their children without the mother being present or giving consent In a victory for “invisible, undocumented children”, unwed fathers will soon be able to register the births of their children without the mother being present or giving consent. V.5462

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WhatsApp delays new policy change after critics claimed update would turn over user data to Facebook

WhatsApp is delaying by three months the rollout of a new policy that some critics said would turn over user data to Facebook. • Users originally were set to opt in or out of the policy change on February 8 and will now not have to until May 15. V.5454

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Home Affairs to step up measures to fight illegal immigration to South Africa

Johannesburg - Minister of Home Affairs Dr Aaron Motsoaledi says his department is on course to appoint border control guards including border management commissioners in their drive to bring to end illegal movement of people into South Africa. V.5452

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S. Africa`s plan to record all babies` biometrics raises privacy fears

JOHANNESBURG (Thomson Reuters Foundation) - Plans to photograph and fingerprint every baby born in South Africa for a digital register could lead to data leaks and identity theft without robust safeguards, rights experts said on Thursday. V.5447

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Immigrate to the UK from South Africa in 2021

The UK remains the preferred destination for South Africans looking for great employment opportunities, a high standard of education and a good quality of life. Choosing the right visa can make the process of applying much simpler and can lead to a more successful application. These are your top UK visa options as a South African. Applying for a UK ancestral visa V.5448

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EXPLAINER - Should you panic about WhatsApp`s new terms �` and what`s the deal with Telegram and Signal?

Social media app WhatsApp has sparked an outcry among users with its proposed new terms and privacy policy. Ahmore Burger-Smidt, Director and Head of Data Privacy Practice and Dale Adams, Associate Designate at Werksmans Attorneys unpack the terms. V.5445

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Signal won`t replace WhatsApp, people will use both, says a cofounder of one and leader of the other

The encrypted messaging service Signal won`t replace WhatsApp, Brian Acton, the executive chairman of the Signal Foundation and cofounder of WhatsApp, predicted. V.5446

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Minister instructs schools to enrol all undocumented children

A Rwandan asylum seeker told GroundUp she has been to the Western Cape Metro North Education District, but officials refused to help her enrol her child without a study permit. V.5459

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South African Business Visa

A business visa may be issued by the Department of Home Affairs to a foreigner intending to establish or invest in a business in South Africa in which he or she may be employed, and to members of such foreigners’ immediate family providing that certain requirements have been met. V.5439

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South Africa Citizenship Options

South African Citizen by Descent: Anybody who was born outside of South Africa to a South African citizen. His or her birth has to be registered in line with the births and deaths registration act 51 of 1992. V.5440

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South African Retirement Visa

A retirement visa can be granted for 4 years to someone with a monthly pension, irrevocable annuity or retirement account of R37 000 from a net worth/combination of assets realizing R37 000 per month and wishes to retire temporarily or permanently in South Africa. V.5441

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Relatives Visa

A Relative`s Visa may be issued by the Department to a foreigner who is a member of the immediate family of a citizen or a resident, providing that such citizen or resident provides the prescribed financial assurances. V.5442

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SA just extended all visas again, which now makes for a year of extra time

The latest visa extension brings the total amount of leeway afforded to foreigners since the beginning of the outbreak to more than 12 months. • Foreigners who have been unable to leave South Africa due to lockdown measures will now have their visas automatically extended to 31 March 2021. V.5443

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Lockdown: Motsoaledi suspends applications for IDs, passports and marriage services

Cogta Minister Nkosazana Dlamini-Zuma and Home Affairs Minister Aaron Motsoaledi updated South Africans on the new Covid-19 restrictions, regulations and their enforcement on Tuesday. V.5444

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Beitbridge border: Fake COVID-19 certificates found

The SANDF will be deploying helicopters to hover above the Limpopo River and SAPS will be in boats. This is according to the Home Affairs Minister. eNCA`s senior reporter Aviwe Mtila was there and filed this report. V.5437

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Denmark and Vietnam latest countries to ban SA travellers, fearing new Covid variant

Israel, Turkey, Germany, Saudi Arabia, Denmark, the UK and Vietnam have all halted air travel to and from South Africa. • The suspension of flights follows the detection of 501.v2, a mutated SARS-CoV-2 variant which holds a higher transmission rate. V.5456

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Denmark and Vietnam latest countries to ban SA travellers, fearing new Covid variant

Israel, Turkey, Germany, Saudi Arabia, Denmark, the UK and Vietnam have all halted air travel to and from South Africa. • The suspension of flights follows the detection of 501.v2, a mutated SARS-CoV-2 variant which holds a higher transmission rate. V.5458

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Pakistan eases travel advisory for inbound UK, South Africa passengers

KARACHI: The Civil Aviation Authority on Monday eased travel restrictions for inbound passengers travelling from the United Kingdom and South Africa. V.5449

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South Africa plans to make major changes to its borders �` here’s what to expect

Home Affairs minister Aaron Motsoaledi has published the draft One-Stop Border Policy (OSBP) for public consultation. V.5455

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Beitbridge border: Fake COVID-19 certificates found

JOHANNESBURG - Home Affairs Minister, Aaron Motsoaledi, says travellers using fake COVID-19 test certificates will face the full might of the law after 17 fake certificates were discovered. V.5434

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Zimbabwe reverts to hard lockdown measures amid COVID-19 surge

Zimbabwe reverts to hard lockdown measures amid COVID-19 surge Zimbabwe reverted to some of the stringent lockdown measures first imposed in March 2020 as the government moved to contain a surge in COVID-19 infections. Announcing the measur V.5433

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To foil foreigners, govt wants to ‘reregister’ every SA child when they turn five

• Foreigners buy the birth certificates of dead SA children to gain South African citizenship, the department of home affairs says. • To prevent that, it is considering `reregistration` of children at age five, and capturing fingerprints and photos of the iris then. V.5435

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Zimbabwe reverts to hard lockdown measures amid COVID-19 surge

Zimbabwe reverted to some of the stringent lockdown measures first imposed in March 2020 as the government moved to contain a surge in COVID-19 infections. V.5436

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Beitbridge border: Motsoaledi says army makes over 500 arrests daily

At least 500 undocumented Zimbabweans are being arrested daily, trying to enter the country illegally. That`s according to Home Affairs Minister, Aaron Motsoaledi. V.5438

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Here are the ways you can gain citizenship in these 7 countries

There are many benefits to having dual citizenship, including greater global mobility, economic opportunities, better quality of life and improved personal security, However, acquiring second citizenship can be a lengthy process as residence in the country is usually a requirement. Business owners and private investors looking to gain an alternative nationality often turn to investment migration because it is quick and generally hassle-free, Woest said. These citizenship V.5423

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Dlamini-Zuma: No changes on international travel, initiation schools to close

JOHANNESBURG - Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs (Cogta) Minister Nkosazana Dlamini-Zuma on Tuesday said that international travel has not changed under the country’s level 3 lockdown. Briefing the media, the minister said the 18 land borders, which were partially operational, would be fully operational. V.5427

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Foreigners flying into SA get a curfew break �` but you’ll need to have your papers handy

• Passengers on inbound flights into South Africa don’t have to worry about the 21:00 to 06:00 curfew. • These travellers will not be breaking the law in travelling from the airport to their place of accommodation, government says. V.5430

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Statement by President Cyril Ramaphosa on progress in the national effort to contain the COVID-19 pandemic.

Fellow South Africans, In just four days from now, we will be ushering in a new year. This is traditionally a time of festivity and celebrating. Unfortunately, for us here in South Africa and for others around the world, there is little cause for celebration this year. Yesterday, we passed the mark of more than one million confirmed coronavirus cases in our country. Nearly 27,000 South Africans are known to have died from COVID-19. The number of new coronavirus infections is climbing at an unprecedented rate. More than 50,000 new cases have been reported since Christmas Eve. V.5418

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Statement by President Cyril Ramaphosa on progress in the national effort to contain the COVID-19 pandemic.

Fellow South Africans, In just four days from now, we will be ushering in a new year. This is traditionally a time of festivity and celebrating. Unfortunately, for us here in South Africa and for others around the world, there is little cause for celebration this year. V.5424

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Beitbridge border post bottleneck cleared, says home affairs

The chronic traffic congestion at Beitbridge border post has been cleared, says the department of home affairs. V.5420

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Who is exempt from hotel quarantine after entering Australia?

Once you touch down in Australia, the Government does allow exemptions from hotel quarantine in some instances The case of a 53-year-old Australian dual citizen and her son who were incorrectly allowed to travel to Victoria and avoid hotel quarantine after flying into Sydney has put the spotlight back on quarantine exemptions. V.5429

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Dear Client , friend , colleague and fellow life traveller

As we stand on the cusp of the old year of 2020 and we stand ready to welcome the new year 2021 . we pause and reflect on some of the challenges of 2020 as well as the successes. V.5414

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South Africans setting up a business in the UK

South African businesses are increasingly setting up businesses in the UK, sometimes as a hedging strategy in the uncertain economic climate in South Africa, and often because they want to tap into the global trade opportunities the UK is well-positioned for. V.5416

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New UK student visa option now available to South Africans

The United Kingdom (UK) government has announced a new points-based visa route to encourage international students to study and live in the UK. V.5417

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The rand’s massive comeback: It’s as if lockdown and ‘junk’ never happened

• The rand is currently trading at levels against the dollar last seen in January 2020. • While the SA economy is in a world of trouble, local interest rates are attractive to foreign investors. V.5419

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How does one apply for ECSA?

It is recommend that you start the application to ECSA as early as possible in order to avoid delays in obtaining a Critical Skills Visa. It is important to note that the SAICHE (South African Institution of Chemical Engineers) is not a statutory body and neither is it recognised by SAQA. V.5412

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Municipal manager with fake documents deported to Zimbabwe

The Rand West City municipality senior manager who was arrested for working in SA illegally has been deported to Zimbabwe. V.5421

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Truck drivers say they are being targeted at the Beitbridge border post

One truck driver, who spent five days at the border, alleged some drivers bribe officials to skip the long screening lines. The All Truck Drivers Foundation said law enforcement needed to beef up security at night. V.5413

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SA diplomats fight to stay longer in Europe over fear of contracting Covid-19 while travelling

Diplomats who have finished their four-year terms in Brussels, Milan and Geneva are asking to stay on in their postings until Covid-19 poses no more travel risks.* V.5415

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Cyber crime losses exceed $1 trillion: McAfee

Cyber crime costs the global economy over $1 trillion, or just more than 1% of global GDP, a figure which is up more than 50% from a 2018 study that put global losses at close to $600 billion. V.5428

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What is a Ministerial Waiver / Exemption and how does it work

What is a Ministerial Waiver / Exemption and how does it work Upon application to the Minister of Home Affairs, the Minister may under terms and conditions determined by him or her allow distinguished visitors or members of his/her family to be administered and sojourn in South Africa and or waive any prescribed (regulatory) requirements for good cause and/or grant any foreigner or category of foreigners the rights of permanent residence for a specified or unspecified period when special circumstances exist justifying such a decision. V.5408

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Beitbridge traffic now queues for up to 15km �` with a big coronavirus risk from Covid-19 rules

Covid test if you have money for a bribe, says an appalled transport association. Stringent Covid-19 regulations �` including testing, symptom screenings, and curfews �` is being blamed for a traffic jam stretching for kilometres on both sides of the Beitbridge border post between Zimbabwe and South Africa. Now the backlog may actually be hastening the virus’ spread near Musina, and a super-spreader event can not be ruled out. V.5409

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British Airways halts direct flights between Durban and London

British Airways plans to suspend the direct flight route between Durban and London from March 2021. A total of 13 destinations are expected to be halted in light of the pandemic. V.5410

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Appeals - rejected applications, Undesirable Declaration Waivers, V-listing and Legal Immigration Services

Appeals - rejected applications, Undesirable Declaration Waivers, V-listing and Legal Immigration Services Our dynamic team of immigration consultants provide specialist advice on temporary residence visas, permanent residence permits, appeals on rejected applications, undesirable declaration waivers, V-listing and legal immigration services. Get in touch with us if you’d like a professional yet personal experience provided by our experienced consultants. V.5401

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Netherlands bans UK flights after finding new coronavirus strain

UK fights new COVID strain, PM orders tighter curbs [NFA] British Prime Minister Boris Johnson on Saturday imposed tighter coronavirus curbs on millions of people in England and largely reversed plans to ease restrictions over Christmas, as the country battles a new more infectious strain of the virus V.5404

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Israel bans SA visitors amid new Covid-19 variant concerns

Israel bans SA visitors amid new Covid-19 variant concerns News 24 - 20 December 2020 Israel on Sunday said it was barring entry to foreign citizens travelling from Britain, Denmark and South Africa after a new strain of coronavirus was detected in the three countries. It also announced tough rules for Israelis returning home from those nations, saying that they would be confined in army-run hotels serving as quarantine centres, in a joint statement by Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu`s office and the health ministry. V.5406

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test Ralph

test-2 V.5397

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VFS / Home Affairs open for business ? �` Visa Expired �` Overstay �` But with social distancing !!

VFS / Home Affairs open for business ? �` Visa Expired �` Overstay �` But with social distancing !! Queues long !! We can help !!! Your visa will expired or will expired during lockdown . You cannot lodge an appeal at VFS ,the 10 days will expire during lockdown V.5398

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Zimbabwean citizen Gibson Tawodzera kicked out of SA may return, court rules

Pretoria - A Zimbabwean citizen who had been kicked out of South Africa and deported back to Zimbabwe has received an early Christmas gift. The Gauteng High Court, Pretoria has ordered Home Affairs to allow Gibson Tawodzera back into the country At the time, Home Affairs had, out of the blue, 13 years after his South African wife had died, insisted that the marriage was all along a sham. V.5400

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SCA declares marriage act and divorce act inconsistent with constitution

The country`s second-highest court says the Acts fail to recognise marriages under Sharia Law The Supreme Court of Appeal (SCA) in Bloemfontein has declared the Marriage Act 25 of 1961 and the Divorce Act 70 of 1979 to be inconsistent with sections of the constitution V.5403

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Jobless but making a living queueing for others at Home Affairs, Sassa and clinics

Cape Town �` Unemployed and desperate for work, innovators from Cape Town`s townships are making money by standing in queues for people at Home Affairs, SA Social Security Agency (Sassa) offices and clinics, for a price of R50. Waking up as early as 3am, 21-year-old Bahle Ngqula from Nyanga said he started the initiative when he lost his job at the start of the lockdown. V.5405

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Jobless but making a living queueing for others at Home Affairs, Sassa and clinics

Cape Town �` Unemployed and desperate for work, innovators from Cape Town`s townships are making money by standing in queues for people at Home Affairs, SA Social Security Agency (Sassa) offices and clinics, for a price of R50. V.5407

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Pastor who fought Home Affairs on refugee marriage ban finally ties the knot

In masks and accompanied by their attorney, their baby and witnesses, the man and woman who fought and beat Home Affairs over a ban on refugee marriages finally got hitched in Port Elizabeth on Thursday. An ecstatic, smiling Zizipho, carrying a small bouquet of white flowers and wearing a pretty white dress with yellow flowers, said one happy word when the ceremony was over and she was married to Pastor Emmanuel Ochogwu: “Finally.” V.5411

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Death of Detained Ukrainian Causes Uproar in Portugal

The man’s death after what prosecutors called “inhumane treatment” has raised questions about the country’s detention policies and prompted calls for the interior minister to step down. Arriving in the Lisbon airport without a work visa in March, Ihor Homeniuk, a Ukrainian citizen, was sent to a nearby detention center after refusing to board a flight out of Portugal. V.5402

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SA`s undocumented children have a right to free education, EC high court rules

The Equal Education Law Centre says it has secured placement of more than 100 children in Matatiele for the 2020 academic year. The children were out of school due to lack of identity documentation. V.5451

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Home Affairs probes avalanche of blocked ID documents

Cape Town - The Home Affairs Department is investigating close to a million `blocked` identity documents that were found to be suspicious, duplicate or fraudulently issued with falsified supporting documents. This was revealed by Home Affairs Minister Aaron Motsoaledi when he was responding in writing to Parliamentary questions from EFF MP Lorato Tito. V.5391

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Court victory for asylum seekers after Home Affairs interdicted from implementing certain provisions of Act

Pretoria - The Department of Home Affairs has been interdicted from implementing certain provisions of the Refugees Act as well as new regulations which make provision for asylum seekers to be sent away if they are a month late in renewing their permits. V.5392

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Three people in Daryl Maguire`s cash-for-visa scheme could be stripped of citizenship

Home affairs will be ‘tough-minded’ if fraud is proven, Michael Pezzullo tells Senate estimates Michael Pezzullo says there is a criminal investigation into Daryl Maguire’s cash-for-visa scheme and if fraud is proven visas ‘will be cancelled’ V.5393

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South Africa to make changes to its borders as it prepares for multi-trillion rand trade deal

President Cyril Ramaphosa’s cabinet has approved a draft One-Stop Border Policy (OSBP) for public consultation. In a post-cabinet briefing on Friday (4 December), government said that the creation of the OSBP seeks to ‘harmonise the movement of people and goods between South Africa’s land ports of entry and its neighbouring countries’. V.5394

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Lisbon Golden Visa property programme: Separating fact from fiction �` SA property developer

The programme is pretty much as it was, when it started out in 2012. I think it’s close to €5bn that has flowed into the programme, which has been incredibly valuable to the Portuguese economy and the state of the country as a whole. Right now, it’s business as usual. There have been interesting speculations about an imminent change, but fundamentally the programme has encouraged a massive investment in real estate. Many of our clients at LX Living have seen fit to follow that opportunity which allows you to get the Golden Visa and ultimately, the European passport within the five-six year timeframe. On speculation and misinformation surrounding the Golden Visa programme: V.5399

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To foil foreigners, govt wants to ‘reregister’ every SA child when they turn five

To foil foreigners, govt wants to ‘reregister’ every SA child when they turn five • Foreigners buy the birth certificates of dead SA children to gain South African citizenship, the department of home affairs says. • To prevent that, it is considering `reregistration` of children at age five, and capturing fingerprints and photos of the iris then. V.5432

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9 ways you can claim British citizenship

British citizenship could be more attainable than you think, writes Mishal Patel of Sable International. Amendments to the UK’s laws and new rulings make it possible to claim nationality from your parents, grandparents and in some cases even your great-grandparents. V.5390

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Scalabrini court victory for people seeking asylum in South Africa

Scalabrini court victory for people seeking asylum in South Africa Home Affairs has been interdicted from implementing certain provisions of the Refugees Act and new Regulations (both implemented on 1 January 2020), which sought to return asylum seekers back to their home country where they could be face detention without trial, rape, torture, or death, merely because he or she was a month late in renewing a visa. V.5389

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Scalabrini’s ‘abandonment’ court case challenges constitutionality of South African refugee laws

Scalabrini Centre in Court seeking an interdict against the Department of Home Affairs, in first step to challenging the constitutionality of the Refugee Amendment Act’s ‘deemed abandonment’ provisions. V.5387

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New UK student visa option now available to South Africans

The United Kingdom (UK) government has announced a new points-based visa route to encourage international students to study and live in the UK. V.5388

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Stranded Australians may not be home for Christmas, says Home Affairs Minister Peter Dutton

The Trade and Tourism Minister says extra quarantine capacity at Howard Springs means more Australians stranded overseas can return home. V.5383

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Zim, SA home affairs ministers tackle border congestion ahead of Dec 1 re-opening

Officials fear widespread chaos when smaller vehicles start arriving at the border BULAWAYO �` Home affairs minister Kazembe Kazembe met with his South African counterpart Aaron Motsoaledi in Beitbridge on Friday ahead of the re-opening of the border to normal traffic on December 1. V.5385

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Travel agents in Mideast, Africa say UAE is blocking visas

DUBAI, United Arab Emirates (AP) �` Travel agencies in countries across the Middle East and Africa say the United Arab Emirates has temporarily halted issuing new visas to their citizens, a so-far unexplained ban on visitors amid both the coronavirus pandemic and the UAE`s normalization deal with Israel. V.5386

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Brothers born of Angolan parents have right to South African citizenship: Supreme Court

The Supreme Court of Appeal has dismissed an appeal by the minister of home affairs, who was ordered by the high court in Pretoria last year to grant citizenship to two brothers born in SA of foreign parents in the 1990s. V.5382

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Mauritius is closed for December

Mauritius’s borders will effectively remain closed for leisure travel during the peak December- January period, following its government’s decision to extend quarantine regulations until January 15, 2021. The move is another blow to outbound agents and operators who are missing out on December holiday bookings to South Africa’s favourite island destination. V.5384

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Angolan Parents �` Born in South Africa there is hope Brothers born of Angolan parents have right to South African citizenship: Supreme Court

The Supreme Court of Appeal has dismissed an appeal by the minister of home affairs, who was ordered by the high court in Pretoria last year to grant citizenship to two brothers born in SA of foreign parents in the 1990s. V.5537

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Human trafficking in SA continuing despite coronavirus, says Interpol

Cape Town - Human trafficking in South Africa and the rest of the continent is continuing unabated despite the coronavirus, resulting in hundreds of victims unable to get assistance, according to Interpol. V.5378

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South Africa: Home Affairs Officials Enforcing Immigration Laws

The Home Affairs Inspectorate officials, supported by SAPS, the City of Cape Town, the Departments of Social Development and Health are currently performing an operation at the temporary shelter called Wingfield in Maitland, Cape Town. V.5379

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Motsoaledi calls Home Affairs, Bosasa deal ’stupid’

Cape Town �` Home Affairs Minister Aaron Motsoaledi has described the agreement reached between his department and Bosasa on the use of the Lindela Repatriation Centre as ’’stupid“. Motsoaledi was on Wednesday asked about claims made by Angelo Agrizzi that the Lindela Repatriation Centre was a cash cow and that the Auditor-General had found that the department paid R20 000 per inmate per month. V.5376

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South Africa: 15 Million `Undocumented Foreigners` in South Africa? Herman Mashaba Wrong Again

Claim There are 15 million undocumented foreigners in South Africa Source: South African politician and businessman Herman Mashaba (November 2020) Verdict Explainer: Data from Statistics South Africa and the United Nations put the number of foreign-born migrants in the country at around 4 million. V.5377

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Chakwera wants special permits for Malawians working in South Africa

President Lazarus Chakwera has called for the introduction of special permits for Malawians working in the informal sector in South Africa. The Malawi leader made the request during a meeting with South Africa’s President Cyril Ramaphosa and various members of his Cabinet in Pretoria. V.5370

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Home Affairs rescinds visa of war crimes fugitive Guus Kouwenhoven, embarrassing a global resources ‘transparency’ initiative

South Africa has finally done the right thing by rescinding the visa of Guus Kouwenhoven, a Dutch citizen convicted of aiding and abetting war crimes committed by Charles Taylor’s forces in Liberia and Guinea. It is now time for the Extractive Industries Transparency Initiative to do likewise. V.5373

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