Articles Archive

CPT International Airport given green light to resume travel

International visitors will be allowed back in the country from 1 October. V.5295

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UPDATE 2-South Africa to allow travel from all of Africa from Oct. 1

* Travel to and from within continent allowed * Travel restricted from high infection countries * Govt yet to say which countries on restricted list * Business travel to be allowed under certain conditions (Adds details from govt gazette) JOHANNESBURG, South Africa will allow travel from Oct. 1 to and from all countries in Africa as well as other countries where levels of COVID-19 infections are not too high, a government minister said on Friday. V.5296

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Former president Kgalema Motlanthe criticises SA`s treatment of undocumented immigrants

Former president Kgalema Motlanthe has bemoaned South Africa`s treatment of undocumented immigrants. Motlanthe said George Bizos had no citizenship and remained stateless for 31 years after the South African government denied him citizenship. V.5288

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The real problem with government workers in South Africa: Ramaphosa

A streamlined, efficient and well-integrated civil service is the hallmark of a capable state, but South Africa has fallen in a number of areas, says President Cyril Ramaphosa. Writing in his weekly open letter to the public, Ramaphosa said that the government’s key priority is to build a ‘capable state’. “If we are to build a more capable state we have to seriously and urgently address the shortcomings in the organisation and the capacity of the public service,” he said. V.5289

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Nightmare Facing South Africans Abroad with Passport Renewals

South Africans abroad are facing a passport renewal nightmare. SAPeople editor Jenni Baxter sat down with Adrian Roos MP (DA Shadow Deputy Minister of Home Affairs) and Justin Adams (DA Abroad UK and Europe Chairperson) to discuss the critical situation SA citizens abroad are facing in obtaining their South African passports from Home Affairs and the SA embassies.To assist South Africans abroad the DA, DA Abroad and SAPeople are petitioning the Minister of Home Affairs. Some of the points raised in the discussion include: V.5291

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The new tax and emigration change South Africans should know about

The draft Taxation Laws Amendment Bill (TLAB), which is open for public comment, will introduce changes for South Africans looking to take their retirement funds abroad. In an analysis of the proposed change, law firm ENSAfrica said that the changes primarily deal with formal emigration with the draft bill suggesting a much stricter process from 1 March 2021 onward. V.5292

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Home Affairs suspends senior official probing allegedly dodgy citizenships

The Public Servants Association of SA has lashed out at the department of home affairs for suspending a senior bureaucrat involved in investigating foreign nationals who allegedly obtained SA citizenship fraudulently. V.5293

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ConCourt: Children Born in South Africa to Foreign Parents Can Apply For Citizenship

It has taken four years of legal battles �` but now, if you were born in South Africa to foreign parents, you can apply for citizenship. It has been an “agonizing journey” for those who consider South Africa to be their only home. V.5284

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Pay up and your criminal record for some offences could be `expunged`, proposes new law

The Criminal Procedure Amendment Bill seeks to expunge certain criminal records that result from an admission of guilt payment. Justice and Correctional Services Minister Ronald Lamola said the Covid-19 pandemic put the brakes on the introduction of the legislation.* V.5285

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Do you know rich Nigerians are buying citizenship in Caribbean nations to beat visa rules?

For most Nigerian businessmen, holding a Nigerian passport raises a red flag and would often require extra documentation for validation. Nigeria is placed 95 on the annual Henley Passport Index which ranks the world’s passport according to the countries they can visit without a prior visa. Ranked 95, Nigerian passport holders can visit two fewer countries now than they could in 2010 without a visa. V.5287

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Huge number of refugee documents set to expire soon

Concerns are growing about the number of refugees’ and asylum seekers’ documents expiring at the end of October. The Department of Home Affairs has not said how it intends dealing with the disruption caused by Covid-19, insofar as this paperwork is concerned. The Scalabrini Centre in Cape Town has written to home affairs asking for the department’s plan regarding documents held by refugees that are on the point of expiring. V.5290

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`Absolutely devastated`: Thousands of residents on visas locked out of Australia

Thousands of skilled migrants with valid visas to come to Australia are stranded overseas, needing government permission to travel back and reunite with their families and jobs. Under measures to contain the COVID-19 pandemic since March 20, foreign nationals have required a travel exemption to enter Australia even if they already have a visa, though the Department of Home Affairs has refused to disclose the legal basis for this requirement. This includes both short-term visitors and long-term residents on visas. V.5294

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Level one loading: Cyril Ramaphosa set to lift travel ban tonight

While borders and other points of entry will reopen under level one, government has decided to retain the ban on travellers from the US, UK, Spain and Italy �` which are key markets for the revival of the tourism sector V.5272

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Ramaphosa to announce limited international travel, Level 1

*Cabinet is expected to decide on Wednesday on the resumption of international travel. * *But there are strings attached. * *The NCCC has recommended strict visa requirements for anyone entering the country. V.5273

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SA’s borders open on 1 October. Here’s what we know about the rules for tourists.

• South Africa`s borders will open for tourists �` inbound and outbound �` on 1 October, President Cyril Ramaphosa announced on Wednesday night. • But there are caveats, including that some countries may be red-listed based on their coronavirus statistics. • Those arriving need to show a recent negative test for Sars-CoV-2, and should install a government contact-notification app. • Here`s what we know about the rules for international travel into and out of South Africa under Alert Level 1. V.5274

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Ramaphosa`s economic recovery plan gets the green light from business, labour

*The National Economic Development and Labour Council has agreed on an action plan for the country`s economic recovery. * *President Cyril Ramaphosa met with the council on Tuesday. * *Details of the plan will be announced once it is finalised by Cabinet. V.5267

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DA calls on education MEC to intervene so Zim teachers can return to SA

The DA says Zimbabwean teachers locked out of SA due to Covid-19 restriction should be allowed to return to SA. According to the provincial education department, four teachers who were locked out have since been assisted. The department says teachers who are still outside SA`s borders are on unpaid leave. V.5268

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Many more rich South Africans want to leave after Covid-19 �` but not as many as in the US

•Rich people in various countries seem to be reconsidering where they actually want to live after the coronavirus, says consultancy Henley & Partners. •Judging by enquiries about investment migration, that is. •South Africa is among those countries. •But Americans are suddenly way more keen to leave their country than South Africans. V.5269

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`Gear up for easing of lockdown`: Winde to push for Ramaphosa to lift curfew and overseas travel ban

Western Cape Premier Alan Winde wants the curfew lifted and a date for international travel to resume.Premiers are meant to meet with President Ramaphosa and the NCCC to discuss the lockdown. V.5271

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

On 17 June 2020, the Scalabrini Centre of Cape Town, represented by Norton Rose Fulbright South Africa Inc, will be heard in the Western Cape High Court regarding certain sections of South Africa’s recently-changed, controversial refugee laws. V.5261

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

On 17 June 2020, the Scalabrini Centre of Cape Town, represented by Norton Rose Fulbright South Africa Inc, will be heard in the Western Cape High Court regarding certain sections of South Africa’s recently-changed, controversial refugee laws. V.5264

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These critical skills are in high demand in South Africa

The Department of Higher Education and Training has published its draft list of Occupations in High Demand which aims to establish the skills most in-demand across the country. The significance of the list is that it will form the basis for the updated critical skills list by the Department of Home Affairs, which contains all the skills deemed in short supply in South Africa, said Xpatweb’s Marisa Jacobs. V.5282

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International travel `top of agenda` as Mbalula looks into airlines breaking Covid-19 regulations

Transport Minister Fikile Mbalula says some airlines are not complying with Covid-19 regulations. He says there is no enforcement of the use of masks and sanitisers. Mbalula says government is considering allowing international travel. V.5263

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Life Partner Visa

Life Partner visa is issued to someone in a long term relationship. This type of South Africa life partner visa is available to people in either heterosexual or same-sex relationships and can apply for a life partner temporary residence visa or a permanent residence depending on the length of the relationship in question. V.5257

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South African Spousal Visa

This type of South Africa Spouse or life partner permit is available to people in either heterosexual or same-sex relationships and can be applied for as either a spouse temporary residence permit or a permanent residence permit depending on the length of the marriage or relationship in question. V.5259

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Ramaphosa hints to the easing of Covid-19 restrictions in the coming week

President Cyril Ramaphosa has indicated the **National Coronavirus Command Council will consider submissions on the relaxing of Covid-19 restrictions. He says he is planning to address the nation in the next week. The president says the government has received submissions from the religious section, the tourism sector, sports fraternity and entertainers. V.5260

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Critical Skills Work Visa

The Critical Skills Visa South Africa is for skilled workers whose occupation is on the Critical Skills Visa List for South Africa. This list reflects the occupations that are in demand in South Africa. The newly published `Skills or qualifications determined to be critical for the Republic of South Africa in relation to an application for a Critical Skills Visa or Permanent Residence Visa` V.5249

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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.5250

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Inter Company Transfer Visa

An intra-company transfer work Visa may be issued by the Department to a foreigner who is employed abroad by a business operating in the Republic in a branch, subsidiary or affiliate relationship and who by reason of his or her employment is required to conduct work in the Republic. V.5251

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General Work Visa

Under the General Work Visa there are very strict requirements. The South African government, although trying to promote work and trade in South Africa, recognize the need to give South Africans the chance to obtain employment ahead of any foreigner. V.5252

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Why would I use a registered migration agent?/ Practitioner?

Although you do not have to use a registered migration agent to lodge your visa application, they might be able to help you if your case is complex or you require immigration assistance. V.5253

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Financially Independent

An alternative to the Retirement Visa route exists in the financially independent visa for which candidates would need to be able to demonstrate a net asset value totalling not less that R12 million. In addition, it would also be necessary to demonstrate proof of payment of R120,000 as a non-refundable sum to the Director General of Home Affairs. The application for a financially independent visa will lead to permanent residence. V.5255

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URGENT Petition Launched to Resolve Passport Crisis for South Africans Abroad

SAPeople has collaborated with the Democratic Alliance (DA) to petition South Africa’s Home Affairs Minister to resolve the passport renewal crisis that is currently brewing abroad. V.5258

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Briefing to resolve Cape refugee issue delayed to mid-October

Cape Town - The matter of the refugees currently housed in two tented camps in Cape Town took a turn on Tuesday after Parliament`s portfolio committee on home affairs was forced to postpone a briefing to discuss the issue. V.5275

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Even with open borders, SA remains red-listed by many countries, and tourists may not come

• South Africa is reopening its borders, at least partially, soon. • But that doesn`t mean foreign visitors will immediately stream into the country. • Despite relatively low and dropping new coronavirus case numbers, SA remains red-listed by many countries, which means quarantine for those who travel here when they return home. • SA now has to decide whether to accept risky tourists, as the tourism industry looks toward a multi-year recovery. V.5281

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Home Affairs Minister Dr Aaron Motsoaledi welcomes the arrest of senior government officials for contravening immigration laws

The Minister of Home Affairs Dr Aaron Motsoaledi welcomed the arrest of Mpumalanga Department of Human Settlement Head of Department Mr Keboni Masange by immigration officials on Tuesday, 1 September 2020, in Pretoria. V.5242

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Home Affairs Minister Dr Aaron Motsoaledi welcomes the arrest of senior government officials for contravening immigration laws

The Minister of Home Affairs Dr Aaron Motsoaledi welcomed the arrest of Mpumalanga Department of Human Settlement Head of Department Mr Keboni Masange by immigration officials on Tuesday, 1 September 2020, in Pretoria. V.5243

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Home Affairs Minister Dr Aaron Motsoaledi welcomes the arrest of senior government officials for contravening immigration laws

The Minister of Home Affairs Dr Aaron Motsoaledi welcomed the arrest of Mpumalanga Department of Human Settlement Head of Department Mr Keboni Masange by immigration officials on Tuesday, 1 September 2020, in Pretoria. V.5248

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Foreigners wishing to return to South Africa but stuck abroad: The Ins and Outs

Foreigners wishing to return to South Africa but stuck abroad are on the rise with many foreigners anxiously waiting to return to South Africa to join their spouse , life partner or children in South Africa . These are generally people who either went home to get documents or were just caught outside SA during Lockdown and they are not deemed to be a repatriation flight as in a South African or permanent resident travelling from their current location outside of South Africa and wishing to return home .Who is responsible for organising the return to South Africa flights/ ? Or the overland drive returns V.5239

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Home Affairs officials nabbed over false IDs

Pretoria - In A strong message to the rotten apples within Home Affairs’ ranks, law enforcement officials nabbed three officials from the department and their partners for allegedly issuing fraudulent IDs. The officials were arrested in separate operations in Emalahleni and Pretoria. V.5238

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Foreign nationals file class action against Home Affairs to avoid separation from their children

Forced to stay in unbearable marriages and faced with the constant fear of being separated from their children, three foreign nationals have asked the Cape High Court to declare parts of the Immigration Act unconstitutional as it requires them to leave the country if they get divorced and leave their children behind. V.5235

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More South Africans are looking to move to Mauritius �` here are the updated requirements

The Mauritian government has made changes to investment thresholds, the extension of work, residence, retirement permits, and attractive property acquisition options. V.5237

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The new tax and emigration change South Africans should know about

The draft Taxation Laws Amendment Bill (TLAB), which is open for public comment, will introduce changes for South Africans looking to take their retirement funds abroad. In an analysis of the proposed change, law firm ENSAfrica said that the changes primarily deal with formal emigration with the draft bill suggesting a much stricter process from 1 March 2021 onward. “Members of preservation funds and retirement annuity funds may withdraw from such funds if they formally emigrate from South Africa for exchange control purposes and their emigration is approved by the South African Reserve Bank,” said ENSAfrica. V.5266

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If you applied for a passport before lockdown you may now be able to collect it at some banks

• South Africa`s borders remain closed to most travellers, and you still can`t apply for a new passport. • There is no way to extend the validity of passports, the government says. • But those who applied for passports at bank branches before lockdown, at the end of March, can now collect those documents at 20 such branches. • Collections are only available on Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays. • Here is the list of bank branches where you can collect your passport. V.5234

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If you applied for a passport before lockdown you may now be able to collect it at some banks

South Africa`s borders remain closed to most travellers, and you still can`t apply for a new passport. •There is no way to extend the validity of passports, the government says. •But those who applied for passports at bank branches before lockdown, at the end of March, can now collect those documents at 20 such branches. •Collections are only available on Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays. V.5236

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A return for international travel? Govt set for ‘talks’ to reopen SA’s borders

For those of you desperate to escape the lockdown nightmare with some international travel plans, hope is on the horizon during Level 2. V.5245

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Minister Motsoaledi applauds law enforcement officials for arresting one former employee and two Home Affairs official for fraud and corruption.

The Minister of Home Affairs, Dr Aaron Motsoaledi, applauded law enforcement officials who interrupted the alleged illegal activities of three Home Affairs officials and their external partners who were involved in issuing fraudulent identity documents. These officials were arrested in two separate operations in Emalahleni and in Pretoria. V.5241

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Investigation into R400-million EOH tender heats up

The Department of Home Affairs and the State Information Technology Agency (Sita) faced criticism from the parliamentary portfolio committee on Home Affairs in a meeting on Tuesday 25 August. V.5233

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Table Mountain cableway to reopen

The Table Mountain Aerial Cableway will reopen to domestic tourists from September 1. V.5231

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Virgin Atlantic will pay for medical treatment, quarantine, and funeral if you catch Covid-19

Virgin Atlantic announced that any travel booked directly through the airline between August 24, 2020, and March 31, 2021, will come with complimentary coronavirus insurance. V.5230

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IMPORTANT Advice from High Commissioner for South Africans in the UK with Passports Expiring

South African citizens in the UK, with passports that are expiring, have inundated SAPeople with desperate messages after saying they have been unable to get hold of anybody at the SA Embassy in London for months. Phones have gone unanswered. Offices have been closed. V.5244

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Mum-to-be faces giving birth alone in Australia as partner stuck in NZ

An Australian mother-to-be is `heartbroken` that her partner may miss the birth of their child as he remains stranded in New Zealand. V.5223

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Home Affairs e-services closed during Covid-19 lockdown �` here’s why

Despite the country being immersed in a global pandemic which demands people to keep their distance from each other, the Home Affairs Department’s e-services portal has been shut since the start of the lockdown in March. V.5224

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Countries That Have Reopened For American Tourists

Where can Americans and U.S. passport holders travel right now? Here’s a full list of countries that have reopened their borders for American tourists. V.5225

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Countries Allowed to Travel to Italy

Italy has now reopened for tourism and has recently updated the countries and nations that are permitted to visit, both with restrictions and without. V.5226

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Required Documents for Unmarried Partners of EU Citizens Who Wish to Join Them in Spain

The Spanish Ministry of Foreign Affairs in collaboration with the Spanish Ministry of Interior has decided to permit entry to unmarried/unregistered partners of EU citizens who wish to reunite in Spain, by establishing a procedure of entry. V.5227

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Cape residents vexed by slow service, `off-line` system at Home Affairs office

Cape Town - Frustrated residents queueing at Mitchells Plain Home Affairs offices on Thursday said they were fed-up with the office`s off-line systems and alleged “slow service” which had led to them repeatedly having to queue, even in rainy weather. V.5228

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Durban metro police bust syndicate producing fake documents

Durban metro police swooped on a flat in Pinetown on Thursday afternoon, where they found fake international driving licences, South African visas, police clearance certificates and refugee permits. V.5220

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New bid to reopen international travel in South Africa

The Western Cape’s provincial minister of Finance and Economic Opportunities David Maynier says that the province will table a formal request with national government on the reopening of international travel. V.5240

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Africa Reopening For Tourism �` Full List of Countries

Many African nations are starting to reopen airports, remove curfews, and slowly resume international tourism. V.5222

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Motsoaledi hands over amended birth certificate for child who was to lose R8m in foreign inheritance

Home Affairs Minister Aaron Motsoaledi has handed over the amended birth certificate of a minor child who was about to lose out on an R8 million foreign inheritance. V.5218

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BREAKING | Ramaphosa told to lift cigarette, alcohol ban and move to Level 2 lockdown

• Cabinet has been advised to lift the tobacco and alcohol sales ban and move the country to Alert level 2 of the lockdown. • News24 understands that President Cyril Ramaphosa is expected to announce his decision this week. • A meeting of senior government officials on Sunday first touted the matter. V.5210

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Why would I use a registered migration agent?/ Practitioner?

Although you do not have to use a registered migration agent to lodge your visa application, they might be able to help you if your case is complex or you require immigration assistance. Registered migration agents are required to: • have a sound knowledge of migration law and procedure • act professionally and in a timely manner • abide by the Code of Conduct for registered migration agents • have appropriate insurance • be a fit and proper person to give immigration assistance and be a person of integrity (this will involve criminal history checks). If you have a problem with a registered agent, you can make a complaint to the Authority �` FIPSA. V.5174

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Asylum seekers can now apply for temporary and Permanent Residence Visas

Constitutional Court ruling overturns Home Affairs directive The Constitutional Court has ruled that asylum seekers whose refugee applications have been refused, can apply for a visa. V.5176

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Mauritius immigration and residence 2020: The key program changes at a glance

Given the deteriorating socio-political and economic situation in SA, the number of South African families securing a Plan B in Mauritius is increasing exponentially in 2020. The following changes announced by the Mauritian Government as part of their Coronavirus budget speech makes it far easier for South Africans to emigrate to the island nation: V.5180

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Foreigners wishing to return to South Africa but stuck abroad

AMENDMENT OF DIRECTIONS ISSUED IN TERMS OF REGULATION 10(8) OF THE REGULATIONS MADE UNDER SECTION 27(2 �` dated 3 July 2020 This is for all foreigners , foreigners who are spouses of South Africans or retired persons , on foreign passports etc wishing to return to SA V.5183

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International travel for S. Africans working, studying abroad

“The Minister of Home Affairs, Dr Aaron Motsoaledi has, following consultations with the Department of International Relations and Cooperation and the NCCC, approved essential travel for South Africans who want to return to countries where they are based,” the department said. South Africans who wanted to travel for these reasons would be required to produce a letter from the embassy where they were headed, confirming the reason for their journey. V.5184

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Refugees , did you know you can qualify for permanent residence via another way other than Indefinite Refugee status

How does this work ? In terms of the Constitutional Court Rule of the Ahmed and Others there was clarity that an asylum seeker could apply via an exemption , leading to temporary residence visa , life partner and spouse visas without having to cancel the asylum status permit and once temporary residence is granted person can easily apply for permanent residence permit . V.5185

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Refugees and Asylum Seekers �` There is hope and options for Temporary / Permanent Residence

On Tuesday 9th October 2018 the Apex Court of South Africa - the highest Court in the land - the Constitutional Court ruled on the situation surrounding the ability of Asylum Seeker Temporary Visa holders and Refugee Permit holders being enabled to change their status to mainstream visas in the Temporary or Permanent Residence categories under The Immigration Act. V.5186

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South Africa’s Border Management Authority dream could be a nightmare

With its deep management problems, centralising border functions under Home Affairs is an expensive and curious decision. V.5217

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`We have reason to be optimistic`: How SA is taming Covid-19 storm

Health minister Zweli Mkhize tests a mattress in one of the newly built Covid-19 wards at Clairwood Hospital in Durban. Mkhize visited urban and rural hospitals in KwaZulu-Natal to check the state of readiness as the pandemic approaches its expected peak in the province. Image: Sandile Ndlovu V.5196

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Indian visit visa holders can soon travel to UAE, says envoy

UAE to be added to the list of counties with which Air Bubble agreement t o be finalised. Visit visa holders from India can soon travel to the UAE based on an `Air Bubble` agreement being finalised between the two countries. V.5197

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Portugal: ‘Gold’ visa scheme brings in €56M in July, 43% less YoY

Funds raised through ‘gold’ visas fell by 43% in July, year-on-year, and fell by 37% compared to June, to €56 million, according to accounts made by Lusa based on SEF statistics. V.5202

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Partner visa processing backlog keeping couples apart as Department of Home Affairs wait time blows out

Celia Audi is worried the delay will mean she and Moses will lose the opportunity to have children Celia met her husband Moses when they were working together in Kenya in 2012. V.5203

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Home Affairs Called to Assist With Passport Struggles for SA Citizens Abroad �` Extend Validity

Many South Africans living abroad are losing the right to work, receive healthcare and remain legally resident in foreign countries because the Department of Home Affairs (DHA) has been unable to process their passports and other crucial documents in a timely manner, says Democratic Alliance (DA) Abroad Leader, Dr Rory Jubber. V.5200

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R e c o g n i s ed R e f u g e e

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.5165

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Preparing to get married

The solemnisation and registration of civil marriages, customary marriages and civil unions are managed by the Department of Home Affairs. Civil marriages are governed by the Marriage Act and regulations issued in terms of the Act. South Africa also recognizes customary marriages through the Recognition of Customary Marriages Act, which became effective in November 2000. Civil unions are recognised in terms of the Civil Union Act (2006). V.5168

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Refugee Status & Asylum

An Asylum Seeker He is a person who has fled his or her country of origin and is seeking recognition and protection as a refugee in the Republic of South Africa, and whose application is still under consideration. In case of a negative decision on his application, he has to leave the country voluntarily or will be deported. V.5169

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Covid-19: How long should I isolate or quarantine for?

It is highly likely that people will need to isolate or quarantine themselves in the coming months, so it is worth trying to understand the reasons for doing so. This is the first of a series of Expert Advisories on how to respond to Covid-19. V.5171

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Covid-19 moves refugees and asylum seekers to the bottom of priorities

Asylum-seekers in South Africa awaiting the outcome of their applications have limited rights to healthcare, education, job security and constantly face harassment, arrest, detention and deportation, says Jessica Lawrence of Lawyers for Human Rights. V.5187

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Visas extended for foreigners stuck in SA: what you need to know

Visa and permits for foreigners stuck in SA have been extended for three more months. Foreigners stuck in SA can breathe a sigh of relief as the government has extended the validity period of their visas. V.5188

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Fears Chinese investors targeted to `game` visa scheme

Fund managers and migration agents are concocting `non-genuine` applications for Australian visas targeted at wealthy Chinese investors, in behaviour that has been flagged to the government as it reviews the contentious $12 billion “golden ticket” program. V.5189

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South Africa’s UK visa offices are open again �` here are the new procedures

Africans in the process of emigrating, have been living in limbo as the coronavirus pandemic sweeps the world. V.5191

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The disappointment of Australia`s new cybersecurity strategy

Finally, after 11 long months, Home Affairs Minister Peter Dutton has delivered a drab and inward-looking cybersecurity plan and has complained about encryption yet again. V.5208

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Court tells home affairs to let Chinese man back into SA for birth of his child

STERN WORDS: The Western Cape High Court ordered the home affairs department to `do all things necessary` to allow a man to enter SA for the birth of his child. A Chinese man was forced to take home affairs minister Aaron Motsoaledi to court after his department refused to allow the man back into SA ahead of the birth of his child. V.5170

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Zimbabweans in SA who missed food assistance deadline are desperate

About 3,300 Zimbabweans in South Africa have registered for a once-off food voucher. Zimbabweans who missed the submission deadline on July 19 to apply for food assistance cannot get an extension, Zimbabwean consul general in Johannesburg Melody Chaurura told GroundUp on Wednesday. V.5192

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Children born abroad with one South African parent have right to citizenship - ConCourt

• The Constitutional Court finalised a seven-year legal battle fought by Lawyers for Human Rights on behalf of four people born to SA parents outside the country. • The case centred on the Citizenship Amendment Act of 2010 and how it applied to people born outside of South Africa before January 2013. • Justice Sisi Khampepe slammed the Department of Home Affairs, describing its conduct in the matter as `brazenly incompetent`. V.5182

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Airlines and Airports Warn European PMs on Inconsistent Approach to Travel Restrictions

Europe’s airline and airport associations have expressed their shared concerns over travel restrictions, which according to them are not science-based, through a letter sent to Prime Ministers, as well as Health, Transport and Home Affairs Ministers across EU, Schengen zone and the UK. V.5206

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5 lockdown changes for August that you should know about

The government has made a number of changes to South Africa’s level 3 lockdown regulations as the country grapples the peak in coronavirus cases. The changes are primarily aimed at the reintroduction of various parts of the economy, including concessions aimed at the restaurant industry as well as tourism and sport. These new changes are outlined in more detail below. V.5172

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Travel Journal: What it’s like flying from Australia to Greece during the Covid-19 pandemic

Life has certainly been far from normal since Covid-19 was declared a pandemic by the World Health Organisation on March 11. V.5211

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Repatriation Flights: The Ins and Outs

Repatriation flights are on the rise with many citizens anxiously waiting to return home from their travel destinations. Do you need to book a repatriation flight or fly overseas for essential travel? We can assist you! V.5219

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VFS Offices open for collection of Visas , Visa Results and Permanent Residence Certificates

VFS Offices open for collection of Visas , Visa Results and Permanent Residence Certificates Need more information , please contact us on : Sa Migration International Whatsapp Tel No : +27 (0) 82 373 8415, info@sami.co.za V.5155

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UK visa offices open for South Africans moving to UK

For South Africans contemplating a move to the UK, the visa centres in South Africa are open for new applications. With restrictions easing in Europe, visa offices are starting to reopen globally following the Covid-19 pandemic. The UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI) has implemented a controlled, phased, reopening of Service Points. V.5156

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South Africa: DA Requests That Home Affairs Ensures That South Africans Living and Working Abroad Have an Extension Stamp Applied to Their Expiring Passports

Many South Africans living abroad are losing the right to work, receive healthcare and remain legally resident in foreign countries because the Department of Home Affairs (DHA) is simply unable to process their passports and other crucial documents in a timely manner. V.5157

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Disaster Management Act: Regulations: Alert level 3 during Coronavirus COVID-19 lockdown

Alert level 3 Restrictions on many actitivies, including at workplaces and socially, to address a high risk of transmission. Alert level 3 is in place since 1 June 2020 V.5173

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Americans Can Travel �` But Should They?

Americans must make tough sacrifices to get our vacations back. It’s not fun, but it’s the right thing to do �` and the fastest way to start traveling again. V.5164

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Home Affairs is extending all permits and visas that were due to expire during the lockdown from the end of July to October 31

Breaking News !!! Home Affairs is extending all permits and visas that were due to expire during the lockdown from the end of July to October 31 Contact us : please email us to info@samigration.com whatsapp me on: +27 82 373 8415, where are you now? check our website : V.5154

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Children born abroad with one South African parent have right to citizenship - ConCourt

• a seven-year legal battle fought by Lawyers for Human Rights on behalf of four people born to SA parents outside the country. • The case centred on the Citizenship Amendment Act of 2010 and how it applied to people born outside of South Africa before January 2013. • Justice Sisi Khampepe slammed the Department of Home Affairs, describing its conduct in the matter as `brazenly incompetent`. V.5166

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BORDERS ARE OPEN: IT’S PEAK HOLIDAY SEASON IN EUROPE BUT ARE EUROPEANS REALLY TRAVELING?

Europe opened its internal borders six weeks ago. Bookings are up, but there’s a big difference between booking a trip and actually taking one. V.5167

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Here`s how matric learners without IDs can go about acquiring one to write their final exams

The short answer You may wish to consult the following organisations for advice The whole question How can matric learners without IDs apply for an ID to write their final exams? Also, what if they aren`t South African citizens? The How can matric learners without IDs apply to write their final exams long answer In 2019 more than 13 000 undocumented students wrote their matric. This followed a hugely important judgement by Judge President of the Eastern Cape, Selby Mbenenge in the Makhanda High Court in December 2019. V.5137

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Refugee Status & Asylum GENERAL PROCEDURE: APPLICATION FOR ASYLUM

An Asylum Seeker He is a person who has fled his or her country of origin and is seeking recognition and protection as a refugee in the Republic of South Africa, and whose application is still under consideration. In case of a negative decision on his application, he has to leave the country voluntarily or will be deported. A Refugee V.5145

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Politicians have a duty to make it clear that immigrants are allowed to live in SA

Daily Maverick V.5146

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Police hit CBD shops

Heavily armed police, army, traffic police and Home Affairs officials rounded up dozens of foreign national shop owners in the CBD on Friday and detained them. They also seized several cartons of cigarettes and counterfeit goods. Dozens of foreign national shop owners operating on Pietermaritz and West Street were detained during a police raid on Friday morning, during which 57 people were arrested. Police, accompanied by members of the army, traffic officers and Home Affairs officials, also seized several cartons of cigarettes and other counterfeit goods. V.5147

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all permits and visas that were due to expire during the lockdown from the end of July to extended to October 31.

Breaking News !!! Home affairs minister Aaron Motsoaledi, addressing parliament during the tabling of his department`s budget vote for 2020/2021 in the National Assembly on Wednesday, Motsoaledi also announced that his department was extending all permits and visas that were due to expire during the lockdown from the end of July extended to October 31. www.samigration.com V.5148

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Four people born outside SA to South African parents granted citizenship

The Constitutional Court said two subsections of the South African Citizenship Amendment Act could be read so that those born to a South African parent, in or outside SA, could acquire South African citizenship. The Constitutional Court on Wednesday ordered the department of home affairs to register the births of four people that it declared were South African citizens, and that they be issued with IDs. V.5151

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Surging cost of UK visa appointments in wake of coronavirus leaving families without legal documentation

People living in the UK legally are being left without proof of their immigration status because of soaring charges for visa appointments during the pandemic, lawyers have warned. Refugees and authorised migrants have been deprived of access to public services because they have been unable to afford appointments to obtain the required documentation since visa centres started reopening last month. Others have spent thousands of pounds on appointments being offered at a higher than usual cost, out of fear that any delay in submitting their biometrics will put their application in jeopardy. V.5152

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This is tantamount to high treason home affairs official fired for selling visas

Home affairs minister Aaron Motsoaledi addressed parliament on Wednesday. The home affairs department has revoked more than 100 visas that an official based in Windhoek fraudulently issued to Pakistan and Bangladesh citizens. Home affairs minister Aaron Motsoaledi, addressing parliament during the tabling of his department`s budget vote for 2020/2021 in the National Assembly on Wednesday, announced that the secretary of civic services based in Windhoek, Namibia, had recently been fired after he was bust selling visas to non- qualifying people in Pakistan and Bangladesh. V.5153

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President Ramaphosa signs Border Management Authority Bill into law

President Cyril Ramaphosa has signed the Border Management Authority Bill of 2020 into law. The new legislation is in force from today, 21 July 2020. The legislation addresses a need identified by government and diverse stakeholders in the economy for an integrated and well coordinated border management service that will ensure secure travel and legitimate trade in accordance with the Constitution and international and domestic law. V.5139

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Indian Ministry of Home Affairs misses deadline for formulating Citizenship Amendment Act rules

The Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) has missed the six month deadline to frame rules for the controversial Citizenship Amendment Act, delaying its implementation and prompting accusations from the Opposition. The CAA, which was passed in December last year and came into force on January 10, provides citizenship to six non-Muslim minorities from Afghanistan, Bangladesh and Pakistan who entered in India before 31 December, 2014. V.5149

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Saving southern Africa’s oldest language

Language and identity are inextricably interlinked. So what happens when a language dies, or is suppressed? When Katrina Esau spoke to her older sister, Griet Seekoei, they spoke in N|uu. It is a language that only they �` and their brother, Simon Sauls �` could understand. “Griet was a wonderful person,” Esau recalls. “Strict, but wonderful.” Ouma Griet, as she was known, died in May aged 87. Now there are just two remaining speakers of N|uu. “It makes me very sad. No language is more important than another language,” Esau told the Mail & Guardian, speaking from her home in Upington in South Africa’s Northern Cape province. V.5143

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#LoveIsNotTourism: Heartbreak of binational couple separated during SA lockdown

Love follows its own script at the best of times, but the Covid-19 pandemic has added unexpected, devastating twists. As it is, life and love under any level of lockdown pose many challenges to a relationship. With the gradual lifting of restrictions in South Africa, the transitioning has been a rollercoaster ride of emotions, especially in a country where some regulations seem perplexing and contradictory. While those infected by the coronavirus and who have lost their lives or are at risk during the pandemic are foremost in our minds, spare a thought, too, for binational families and couples who have been separated by the pandemic. V.5144

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Three-phase recovery plan: Here’s how tourism will return to South Africa

In revealing their adjusted budget for the remainder of the financial year, the tourism department warned recovery could take up to two years. V.5140

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Foreign doctors can’t register in SA to help with Covid-19 crisis

Foreign-trained doctors in South Africa who are eager to help with the surge in Covid-19 cases are being prevented from doing so by red tape Frustrated, helpless and dejected �` that’s how foreign-trained doctors desperate to register with the Health Professions Council of SA (HPCSA) and help stem the Covid-19 coronavirus epidemic say they feel as they watch the health system and its workers struggle to cope with the mounting cases. V.5138

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The CEO of South African Tourism has revealed that the industry is preparing to lift some restrictions when Level 2 lockdown is implemented.

Level 2 of lockdown might seem like a long way off right now, but some industry professionals �` including those in tourism �` are hopeful that the next step South Africa takes is forward-thinking one. Having already moved from Level 3 to ‘Advanced Level 3’ last month, Cyril Ramaphosa then tightened restrictions on Sunday. COVID-19 cases continue to soar in the country, as Mzansi now heads towards the peak of infections. It may seem unfathomable to start planning ahead, but many trades are facing a fight to survive. Tourist-related businesses have been decimated, and the industry is thought to be losing almost R750 million each day. V.5141

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Why now is the best time for South Africans to apply for Portugal’s Golden visa

It`s clear that people are flocking to this sunny, Mediterranean country. Here’s why so many South Africans are turning to Portugal for residency and retirement. Portugal’s Golden Visa is renowned as one of the most popular investment migration solutions for South Africans. Recent figures showed that residence investments have tripled in May 2020 compared to the previous year. V.5142

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Mission (almost) Impossible: Trying to fly stranded South Africans back home

The ‘boertjie’ who runs Maple Aviation takes flak from all quarters as he tries to bring stranded South Africans home: `I take calls every five minutes from distressed mothers and fathers. And I don’t have a massive staff. It’s basically just me at my dining room table with my computer in Toronto.` Tertius Myburgh is resigned to being maligned. He’s trying to fly stranded South Africans home from the East and they’re mostly “gatvol” from being stuck abroad for months because of the coronavirus lockdown. V.5134

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Repatriation Flights Using SAA - Procedure

• Registration on this portal does not constitute a reservation for the flight, it is only a record of your interest, which will determine the viability to operate the flight. • Confirmation if the flight operates will be latest 48 hours prior to scheduled departure date. • SAA reserves the right to reschedule or cancel flights based on demand. V.5135

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Foreigners wishing to return to South Africa but stuck abroad

AMENDMENT OF DIRECTIONS ISSUED IN TERMS OF REGULATION 10(8) OF THE REGULATIONS MADE UNDER SECTION 27(2 �` dated 3 July 2020 This is for all foreigners , foreigners who are spouses of South Africans or retired persons , on foreign passports etc wishing to return to SA V.5136

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International travel for S. Africans working, studying abroad

South Africans who wanted to travel for these reasons would be required to produce a letter from the embassy where they were headed, confirming the reason for their journey. V.5129

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High court rebukes Cape Town refugee centre

DRC asylum seeker not given adequate reasons for refusal of application: judge The high court has ordered home affairs` refugee centre in Cape Town to reconsider an asylum application by a Congolese woman who was accused of lying about her age. The Western Cape High Court has ordered the home affairs department`s refugee centre in Cape Town to reconsider an asylum application by a Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) national who was accused of lying about her age when she fled to South Africa. V.5150

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Home Affairs welcomes arrest of former employee

Home Affairs Minister Dr Aaron Motsoaledi, has welcomed the arrest of a former departmental employee who appeared in court on charges of fraud and corruption. Kedibone Serumula, a former administrative clerk in Lephalale, Limpopo, was arrested on 30 June 2020. V.5128

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Foreigners wishing to return to South Africa but stuck abroad

AMENDMENT OF DIRECTIONS ISSUED IN TERMS OF REGULATION 10(8) OF THE REGULATIONS MADE UNDER SECTION 27(2 �` dated 3 July 2020 This is for all foreigners , foreigners who are spouses of South Africans or retired persons , on foreign passports etc wishing to return to SA V.5130

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NCCC approves international travel for S. Africans working, studying abroad

The country’s borders were closed with all international flights halted in an attempt to curb the spread of COVID-19. V.5125

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Locked in South Africans may now return to their lives and jobs abroad

After a threat of legal action, the government has eased coronavirus travel restrictions slightly to enable `locked in` South Africans to get on with their studies and livelihoods. The threat of legal action appears to have persuaded the government to relax its coronavirus travel restrictions to allow thousands of South Africans living and working abroad, but trapped in South Africa, to leave the country. V.5126

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Locked in South Africans may now return to their lives and jobs abroad

After a threat of legal action, the government has eased coronavirus travel restrictions slightly to enable `locked in` South Africans to get on with their studies and livelihoods. The threat of legal action appears to have persuaded the government to relax its coronavirus travel restrictions to allow thousands of South Africans living and working abroad, but trapped in South Africa, to leave the country. V.5127

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Foreign nationals become ‘undesirables’ during lockdown

The closure of Home Affairs’ visa and refugee offices during lockdown has had widespread consequences for foreign nationals in South Africa. Many have now become ‘overstayers’, declared ‘undesirable people’. As the national lockdown continues, the government is easing restrictions so that certain sectors of the economy and certain state offices can reopen and people can move more freely. V.5132

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Foreign national unable to return to Moz during lockdown, stuck in SA with expired visa

A Cape Town-based Indian citizen who lives in Mozambique has been stuck under lockdown in South African desperately trying to find her way home. Nikhita Rathod, 23, wants to return to her family in Maputo but she has Indian citizenship and her visa has expired. V.5133

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More South African airports to open as aviation industry gradually resume flights

Transport Minister Fikile Mbalula has announced that seven additional local airports will reopen on 1 July. • Certain aerial activities will also resume, such as agricultural spraying and parachuting. • Mbalula asked that flight passenger arrive two hours early for screening purposes. V.5131

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COVID-19 impact on visa processing times: ‘Visas continue to be processed, though some applications may take longer’

Amid speculations surrounding offshore visa processing, the Department of Home Affairs has clarified that visa applications continue to be processed during the coronavirus pandemic, but decision delays cannot be ruled out. V.5123

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PLEAS for DIRCO to Help Repatriate South Africans, and Urgent Court Application Issued

Pleas for DIRCO to help South Africans stranded abroad, or stuck in SA with jobs abroad, have increased as many run out of money, medicine and hope. The DA today issued a call for Dirco to liaise better with embassies in helping get citizens home; and AfriForum this morning issued urgent court papers in an effort to find solutions to the many problems facing South African citizens needing repatriation, including the fact that they are still required to spend a minimum of 14 days in quarantine in a state facility, while most have the ability and would prefer to isolate themselves. V.5116

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Mango to restart flights

Mango Airlines will resume flights on Monday, June 15, between Johannesburg, Cape Town and Durban. Travellers must present a travel permit and letter from their employer authorising business travel. This will be checked at the entrance to airports and again at check-in and boarding, says CEO, Nico Bezuidenhout. “Important enough to say it twice: if a traveller does not have a relevant permit for essential or business travel with the appropriate sign-off, the traveller will not be granted access to the airport and may subsequently forfeit the purchased ticket.” V.5117

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PLEAS for DIRCO to Help Repatriate South Africans, and Urgent Court Application Issued

Pleas for DIRCO to help South Africans stranded abroad, or stuck in SA with jobs abroad, have increased as many run out of money, medicine and hope. The DA today issued a call for Dirco to liaise better with embassies in helping get citizens home; and AfriForum this morning issued urgent court papers in an effort to find solutions to the many problems facing South African citizens needing repatriation, including the fact that they are still required to spend a minimum of 14 days in quarantine in a state facility, while most have the ability and would prefer to isolate themselves. V.5118

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Here is what the High Court said about the various lockdown regulations

Minister of Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs Nkosazana Dlamini-Zuma (GCIS) • High Court Judge Norman Davis has given Minister Nkosazana Dlamini-Zuma 14 days to amend lockdown regulations, however, the national state of disaster is set to lapse before that deadline. • Davis has slammed some of the regulations, saying there are millions of South Africans who operate in the informal sector, who have lost their livelihoods. • Davis says in the case of hairdressers, a single mother and sole provider for her family is stripped of her rights of dignity, equality, to earn a living and to provide for the best interest of her children. V.5119

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Covid-19 in SA: Death toll now at 848 as number of cases surge past 40 000

The Covid-19 death toll has hit 848, after 56 more people died - 54 of whom were from the epicentre Western Cape. The number of cases rose by 3 267 to 40 792. The number of recoveries is 21 311. The government is set to appeal a court judgment handed down this week which declared the lockdown regulations for Levels 3 and 4 unconstitutional. This came as the government also announced that a state of disaster will be extended until 15 July. Here is what the courts found in the ruling. V.5120

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Mango to restart flights

Mango Airlines will resume flights on Monday, June 15, between Johannesburg, Cape Town and Durban. Travellers must present a travel permit and letter from their employer authorising business travel. This will be checked at the entrance to airports and again at check-in and boarding, says CEO, Nico Bezuidenhout. “Important enough to say it twice: if a traveller does not have a relevant permit for essential or business travel with the appropriate sign-off, the traveller will not be granted access to the airport and may subsequently forfeit the purchased ticket.” V.5121

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South Africa: COVID-19 - Bank Accused of Freezing Asylum Seekers` Accounts During Lockdown

First National Bank has been accused of freezing the accounts of asylum seekers whose permits have expired during lockdown. Refugees can`t renew permits because offices are closed A Zimbabwean asylum seeker says First National Bank (FNB) froze his account when his asylum papers expired during lockdown in spite of explanations from the Department of Home Affairs that refugee offices are closed. According to People Against Suffering and Oppression (PASSOP), his is one of at least ten accounts which have been frozen in the same way. V.5115

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Home affairs seeks extension of VFS Global visa contract The department wants to extend the contract until it is ready to launch a public-private partnership

The department of home affairs has recommended the extension of the contract of its front-end visa handling operator until it is ready to launch a public-private partnership with a new service provider to undertake the work. The contract with VFS Global expires at the end of December but home affairs minister Aaron Motsoaledi told parliament’s home affairs committee on Tuesday that this was not enough time to finalise the public-private partnership, especially given the constraints imposed by the Covid-19 pandemic and lockdown. V.5114

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Over 300 illegal foreigners arrested for trying to enter SA during lockdown

Cape Town - Home Affairs Minister Aaron Motsoaledi has revealed that his department has found an increase of more than 300 foreigners trying to enter the country during the Covid-19 pandemic lockdown amid the questions in the Beitbridge border post fencing. V.5113

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Over 300 illegal foreigners arrested for trying to enter SA during lockdown

Cape Town - Home Affairs Minister Aaron Motsoaledi has revealed that his department has found an increase of more than 300 foreigners trying to enter the country during the Covid-19 pandemic lockdown amid the questions in the Beitbridge border post fencing. V.5122

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What South Africans leaving the country for essential travel should know

South Africans who are considering to travel to countries of work or study will need to show the relevant documents before it is approved. This follows Home Affairs Minister Aaron Motsoaledi`s announcement over the weekend that South Africans who work and study abroad can return to the countries where they are based from June 1, 2020. Motsoaledi, the Department of International Relations and Cooperation and the National Coronavirus Command Council, approved essential travel for South Africans who want to return to countries where they are based. Home Affairs said South Africans can only depart for work, study, family reunion, take up permanent residency or receive medical attention. No leisure travel will be permitted. V.5108

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Zambia probes Chinese clothes factory murders

Police in Zambia have arrested three people suspected of murdering three Chinese nationals, dragging the bodies into a factory and setting it alight. Home Affairs Minister Stephen Kampyongo has promised a full investigation into Sunday`s `barbaric` crime. It took place at the Chinese-owned Blue Star clothing factory. The attack comes amid a controversial crackdown in the capital, Lusaka, on Chinese businesses accused of discriminating against Zambians. There has also been tension over reports that Chinese factory managers have been forcing employees to sleep at work to stop the spread of coronavirus, the BBC`s Kennedy Gondwe reports from Lusaka. V.5109

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Coronavirus | States to clear operation of international flights

Stranded passengers told to register with Indian missions, download Aarogya Setu App The Ministry of Civil Aviation has issued a Standard Operating Protocol (SOP) for private aircraft and charter operations on international sectors in view of COVID-19 pandemic. However, the flights would be allowed subject to the clearance from the respective State/Union Territory Governments. The new guidelines follow the instructions of the Ministry of Home Affairs permitting private aircrafts and international charter operations to bring back many Indians who had travelled to different countries before the lockdown on various purposes - employment, tourism, business studies etc - and were stranded there. V.5110

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It takes most foreign-trained doctors months to register in SA. How did Cuban health workers do it in 3 days?

Most foreign-trained doctors spend months trying to register with the Health Professions Council of South Africa (HPCSA), but visiting Cuban healthcare workers waited just three days - and the HPCSA may have the power to make this possible for more foreign- trained doctors sitting on the sidelines of the Covid-19 response. On Monday, Gauteng welcomed 28 Cuban doctors to assist in the province`s response to the Covid-19 outbreak. The group is part of the 187 healthcare workers who arrived from the Caribbean nation on 27 April and are being deployed around the country. Cuba is known for its strong primary healthcare systems that helped it achieve one of the world`s highest life expectancies, according to World Bank data, despite spending less per person on health than many other nations. It also has a long-standing partnership with South Africa when it comes to health care. But the arrival of Cuban healthcare workers came as many foreign- trained doctors in South Africa said they were s V.5112

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29 South African artists repatriated from Turkey

In a statement released on Saturday, the Department of Sport, Arts and Culture and the Department of International Relations and Cooperation announced the repatriation of 29 musicians and artists who were stranded in Turkey. According to the statement, `the group was meant to fly home, when flights were grounded due to the coronavirus pandemic.` V.5111

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Home Affairs considers marriage registrations during Level 3

While it is clearing the backlog in birth registrations created by Level 5, the Department of Home Affairs is considering allowing the registration of marriages when the country moves to Level 3. This after the department addressed a portfolio committee on Tuesday. V.5102

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How to talk about migration in South Africa

The words used to describe migration can be confusing, but definitions are important when we discuss the movements of people. We look at the most common terms. The Covid-19 pandemic has brought many countries, and the movement of people, to a near standstill. As the world looks to restart, migration will again be at the fore, with South Africa likely to be a key part of this. V.5103

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South Africa: Migrants Excluded From Government Food Aid

All around South Africa, migrants, refugees and asylum seekers who have mostly been left out of the government`s official response to the food crisis are going hungry. For Alice Munyanyiwa, a cup of tea has become a luxury she can barely afford. V.5098

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Australia faces `sobering` future economy due to coronavirus

CANBERRA, Australia (AP) �` Australia`s treasurer said Tuesday the country faces a “sobering” economic outlook due to the effects of the coronavirus and will have its largest-ever deficit when a revised budget is released in October. The 2020-21 federal budget was due to be released Tuesday. But the government was forced to delay it until it assesses the full economic cost of the coronavirus. V.5100

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Government planning six, one-stop border posts The aim is to enhance efficiency, especially at the heavily congested Beitbridge border post

The government is working on a scheme to develop six, one-stop border posts with its neighbours to ensure greater efficiency in the movement of goods and people. Priority will be given to the Beitbridge border post connecting SA and Zimbabwe, which is the gateway for most of the land-based trade with the rest of Africa. This border post, the biggest, has long been plagued by lengthy delays, some lasting up to two weeks, which are extremely costly for business. V.5099

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Desperate Lesotho citizens jump borders to get home

Desperate citizens stranded in South Africa have taken to jumping the Lesotho border risking their lives to get home. Reports from Lesotho claim that hundreds of Basotho are resorting to perilous and illegal border crossings having been stranded in locked down South Africa. V.5096

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Zimbabwe returnees top 3 000

THE country received 527 citizens returning from South Africa yesterday through the Beitbridge Border Post bringing the number of returnees from various countries to 3 134 since the country and other regional countries initiated national lockdowns to curb the spread of Covid-19. V.5097

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Border control: SA’s biggest foreign-policy failure since democracy

The latest experiment in border management should hardly surprise us. But it’s another depressing sign that SA is nowhere close to really dealing with how to properly manage the movement of people between SA and Zimbabwe Blowing R37m on rolls of razor wire for a new border fence between SA and Zimbabwe is in many ways a metaphor for how SA has dealt with the implosion of its northern neighbour over the years: a knee-jerk, haphazard job that has cost us dearly. V.5101

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Rebuilding the post-pandemic economy

The Covid-19 pandemic is set to realign the world`s social and economic structure, and fundamentally change the way people work and interact, personally and professionally. While the current social measures in place around the world are aimed at stemming the spread of the virus, there’s a good chance that there’ll be a residual adoption of elements of them as humanity adapts to ‘the new normal’ �` because the world will fundamentally never be the same again. V.5090

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The cost of home fibre in SA may drop up to R200 per month thanks to a Telkom settlement

Telkom reached an agreement with the Competition Commission to cut the prices it charges internet service providers (ISPs) to use its network. One technology analyst believes SA consumers can expect price cuts of between R100 to R200 on their monthly home-fibre bills as a result. V.5089

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Coronavirus uncertainty affects asylum seekers

The Department of Home Affairs has not confirmed the measures that have been put in place to deal with the arrival of asylum seekers,) Fears around the spread of the coronavirus have led to the South African government taking the extraordinary step of closing 35 of the country’s 72 ports of entry. After President Cyril Ramaphosa declared a state of disaster on March 15, some refugee reception offices have apparently also suspended issuing and renewing asylum permits while their staff wait to receive protective gear. V.5091

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Two British citizens who allegedly sped over SA border now in quarantine, case postponed

The case against two British citizens who allegedly deliberately ignored border officials and sped off into South Africa from Eswatini on Saturday was postponed to 30 April in the Durban Magistrate`s Court on Tuesday. V.5094

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`Unprecedented` national effort underway to combat Covid-19 as infections rise and economy dies

A national rescue effort to save thousands of lives threatened by the spread of Covid-19, while attempting to preserve and reconfigure the economy is unfolding on a scale unprecedented in democratic South Africa. The depth of the crisis the country finds itself in was underscored by a series of dire developments on Tuesday, with the coronavirus infection rate seeing its largest single increase in recent weeks, with 143 more South Africans testing positive, taking the total to 2 415. V.5095

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Covid-19: home affairs outlines measures to deal with immigration, work visas

The department of home affairs has outlined temporary measures regarding visas and permanent residence permits during the lockdown. Image: Alaister Russell People whose visas to work, study or conduct business in SA expired during the Covid-19 lockdown will not be penalised, home affairs said on Tuesday. V.5093

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Rich, older South African men are buying Plan B passports in Europe in record numbers

Business Insider SA - 05 April 2020 The first half of 2018 saw a huge surge in applications from South Africans looking to buy their way into second passports, mostly in Europe, numbers from an advisory company show. V.5085

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How to get British citizenship via double descent

British citizenship via the double descent route was a much talked about topic the past few months. However, there is still a lot of confusion about who can qualify. V.5086

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South Africa might just get lucky - this might not all come to pass but at least there’s hope.

In February, our country was in bad shape. Our stock market was over-heated. We were heading for a recession. We were heading for a downgrade. And then Covid19 happened. V.5088

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Victory for asylum seekers in Constitutional Court

Court rules on extension of temporary permits The Constitutional Court has ruled that asylum seekers’ temporary permits must automatically be extended while their case is being reviewed. Archive photo: Ashraf Hendricks V.5083

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German government begins repatriation of citizens from SA

The German government on Friday started the repatriation of its citizens from South Africa. Strict travel regulations had been in place since a 21-day nationwide Covid-19 lockdown was announced. Previously, all flights were grounded, but the repatriation was permitted due to the revised regulations announced this week by the Minister of Transport Fikile Mbalula. V.5087

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This caters for applicants (in South Africa) that were born in the United Kingdom. This page also serves to clarify the benefits of being born in the UK versus having a parent (or grandparent) that was born in the UK.

The are quite a few complications in these cases that we are looking to clarify. The first relates to eligibility of British nationality. The second relates to the type of British nationality. Finally, we close off by revealing some solutions we have up our sleeves. V.5082

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Government takes another look at partnership visas

directed his officials to come up with a solution so Indians aren`t unfairly excluded from receiving partnership visas. The intervention has come after mounting anger and frustration from the Kiwi-Indian community at recent policy changes with some even walking away from the Labour Party. V.5084

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Foreign nationals stuck in SA will be allowed to go home with chartered flights, says Mbalula

Cape Town - Foreign nationals stranded in South Africa will be allowed to be repatriated under strict conditions, while South African nationals abroad who wished to return home would be allowed to do so, Transport Minister Fikile Mbalula said on Tuesday. V.5075

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Great Grandparent Born in UK

This caters for applicants that were born outside of the UK and they have a UK born great grandparent. The applicant would be defined, from an immigration perspective, as 4 generations apart. The case can be viewed a the grandparent of the applicants parent and not the grandparent of the applicant (of course). V.5076

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Missed appointment not enough to refuse refugee asylum �` court judgment

A man whose father fled Burundi during political turmoil and genocide there in 1994, has been given a fresh start at applying for asylum in South Africa after he was embroiled in a dispute with authorities for about a decade over a missed appointment. V.5077

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Asylum seekers can now apply for residence visas Constitutional Court ruling overturns Home Affairs directive

The Constitutional Court has ruled that asylum seekers whose refugee applications have been refused, can apply for a visa. Archive photo: Ashraf Hendricks If you are an asylum seeker and your application to be a refugee is refused, you are still allowed to apply for a visa. The Constitutional Court ruled this in a unanimous judgment handed down in October. V.5078

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All you need to know about the new UK immigration system

(Partner Content) The United Kingdom left the European Union on 31 January 2020. Although this was the official Brexit date, there is still a transition period in place. V.5080

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Visa outsourcing scrapped Government shelves plan to privatise visa processing.

The government has scrapped plans to outsource its visa processing system. Acting Minister for Immigration, Alan Tudge, announced last Friday that the Department for Home Affairs was terminating its tender process for the Global Digital Platform. He said it was part of “new policy approach to the acquisition and delivery of workflow processing capability” for Home Affairs �` and government as a whole �` and indicated the government remained interesting in updating the current process. V.5081

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Coronavirus: Standard Bank extends payment holidays to personal accounts too

Standard Bank clients earning R7 500 or less will qualify for a three-month payment holiday on all personal account-related debt, the bank said on Sunday. Interest and bank charges will still be charged during this time. Standard Bank last week introduced similar payment holidays for business and student-related debt during the Covid-19 disaster. V.5068

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Absa launches extensive coronavirus payment relief programme

After careful consideration and engagements with regulators, Absa announced on Sunday that it is introducing a comprehensive customer, business and corporate relief programme. V.5069

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Home Affairs rejects calls to release immigration detainees fearful of coronavirus

Detainees fear they will get coronavirus. The United Kingdom has released hundreds of immigration detainees over fears of a coronavirus outbreak, but Australia`s immigration officials say that`s not necessary. V.5071

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UK immigration: The UK Ancestral Visa �` FAQ

(Partner Content) The UK Ancestral Visa is still one of the most popular and common ways in which persons from the Commonwealth countries can come to the UK. However, you will have to prove that you have a grandparent born in the UK to qualify. Below we have answered some of the most frequently asked questions our consultants received during the past months. These FAQs will clarify many issues for readers on the Ancestral Visa immigration route. V.5074

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No hope in sight for South Africans stranded at airports abroad

South Africans stranded abroad should not expect evacuation any time soon. The Department of International Relations and Cooperation (Dirco) said it was doing everything possible to assist South Africans stuck at transit airports after their connecting flights were cancelled ahead of the government-imposed national lockdown to contain the spread of the novel coronavirus. V.5070

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Coronavirus in SA: Impasse over evacuation of British citizens

Thousands of UK citizens are believed to be in distress while they are stranded in South Africa but the government refuses to relax lockdown regulations to allow the European country`s crews to rest before returning home. V.5072

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40 Hours and almost R80k later - the rip-off of flight prices to get home before lockdown

Before the lockdown in the country was even announced, South African married couple Jana and Martin were making arrangements to cut their three-month backpacking trip through Southeast Asia short. V.5065

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Lockdown, day 1: SA’s air traffic comes to a near-standstill as borders, airlines close

Flights in SA came to a near standstill on Friday, on day one of the three-week national lockdown. Data from Flight Radar showed major routes, such as Johannesburg to Cape Town, were devoid of any planes. SA banned non-essential international and domestic air travel as part of lockdown measures, and scheduled commercial passenger flights have been cancelled. V.5066

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Home affairs facing more than R2bn in lawsuits

Acting director-general Thulani Mavuso admits his department has a ‘contingent liability’ of civil actions. The department of home affairs (DHA) is facing more than R2 billion in civil claims because of its service delivery inefficiency, as its legal costs continue to escalate. V.5073

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India Declares `Total` Lockdown In Bid To Prioritize Coronavirus Fight

In a bid to stem the tide of the coronavirus, India has declared the world`s largest stay-at-home order yet in the fight against the global pandemic. Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi declared a 21-day lockdown during an address to the country Tuesday, instructing its more than 1.3 billion residents to stay right where they are, beginning at midnight Tuesday night. `To save India and every Indian,` Modi said, according to an Associated Press translation, `there will be a total ban on venturing out of your homes. V.5067

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The SA High Court handed down an interesting judgement! On Rejected Applications

The Department of Home Affairs is usually rejecting visa cases on a regular basis without giving any reason for it. The South African Court handed down an interesting judgement last week, which will help to better cooperation between home affairs and Immigration Consulting Agencies, as well as applicants in general. V.5062

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No plans �` yet �` to help South Africans stuck abroad get home during the coronavirus crisis

(Despite a ban on travellers from some countries, South African citizens are still allowed back into the country �` in theory. • Flight cancellations mean South Africans in various parts of the world are effectively stuck, they say. • Some are running out of money, others are worried about legal trouble if they overstay visas. • The SA government is in touch with authorities elsewhere, Dirco says, but there are no plans yet for special repatriation efforts. V.5059

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Coronavirus: Standard Bank gives businesses, students a debt holiday

• Standard Bank is giving all of its business clients with a turnover of less than R20 million per year a debt repayment holiday of three months. • They don`t have to pay debt instalments until end-June, but interest and fees will still accrue during this time. • Businesses don`t need to apply for the holiday - they will get it automatically if they are not behind on payments and `in good standing` with the bank. • Students are also getting an automatic three-month repayment holiday, and no interest or fees will accrue during this time. V.5060

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Mozambique suspends visa issuance

In response to the rapid spread of COVID-19, Mozambique announced today (March 20) that it has, with immediate effect, suspended the issuing of visas to foreign nationals as well as cancelling those that have already been issued, said Mozambican President, Filipe Nyusi in a statement. Furthermore, it has implemented a mandatory 14-day quarantine for all travellers who have recently been outside the country. “Mozambique still has no confirmed case of COVID-19, even among Mozambicans abroad, stressing that prevention remains the main pillar to combat the spread of this virus in the country,” said Nyusi in a statement. V.5061

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SA permanent residents abroad are being told they can’t come home, ‘chaos’ as OR Tambo tests for Covid-19

• Measures aimed at curbing the spread of the SARS-CoV-2 virus, are causing chaos as they are patchily implemented. • Some permanent residents �` who must be allowed entry back into South Africa, no matter where they come from �` are being denied boarding for flights back to SA. • Meanwhile, restrictions on travellers from some countries were not fully applied on Thursday, then caused chaos at OR Tambo on Friday. V.5063

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High risk foreigners not allowed to disembark in SA

Airports Company South Africa (Acsa) has �` together with other aviation authorities �` implemented air travel restrictions as detailed by the Minister of Transport, Fikile Mbalula, in the International Air Services (Covid19 Restrictions on The Movement Of Air Travel) Regulations, 2020. The regulations, published today (March 20), ban passenger air travel from countries deemed high risk as per the President’s National Disaster declaration on Sunday (March 15). Countries affected are: South Korea, Italy, Spain, Iran, Germany, and United State of America, Switzerland, the United Kingdom, France and China. V.5064

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New Implementations in Namibia due to COVID-19

The CABINET has declared a State of Emergency in the country amid the Coronavirus pandemic. President Hage Geingob announced at the State House that the country will go into almost complete lock-down for the next 30 days. Some of the measures include the suspension of the issuance of visas on arrival at the Hosea Kutako International Airport (HKIA). There is also the implementation of a travel ban on foreign nationals, by air and sea, from affected countries. V.5058

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NZ parent visa rules `impossible` for some in China`s one-child generation

Members of the Chinese community say new requirements in the parent visa category will be especially hard for people from China, where a one-child policy lasted for decades. The visa category, suspended by the National government in 2016, is to be reinstated from February but with a lower annual cap and significantly tougher financial requirements. When the scheme was suspended, Auckland woman Xu Lin about to submit an expression of interest for her and her husband`s parents. V.5055

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South Africans are losing hundreds of thousands of rands to immigration fraudsters offering jobs in Canada in ‘the perfect scam’

• Immigration fraudsters are parting South Africans from their money with promises of getting them into Canada with guaranteed jobs. • Those who still want to emigrate after being scammed can`t go to the authorities for fear of being barred from Canada. • Scammers seem to sense opportunity in the current political climate in South Africa, one (legitimate) immigration consultant says. V.5057

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`High cost` parent visa could deter skilled migrants

Skilled migrants could be detered from coming to New Zealand by the new Parent Visa Category requirements, say immigrants and recruitment advisors. From February 2020, skilled migrants with residency are able to bring their parents to New Zealand. However, the financial requirements New Zealand immigrants must meet so their parents can qualify for the visa have significantly increased from where they were in 2016. V.5056

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Stay updated on Immigration News !! , join us on our Facebook page “ SA Migration �` Visas “

Stay updated on Immigration News !! , join us on our Facebook page “ SA Migration �` Visas “ Find out late breaking news V.5053

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Coronavirus �` temporary concession for Chinese Nationals currently in South Africa

Some countries and airlines have embargoed flights to and from China and have even gone so far as to deny Chinese Nationals who from the Wuhan district (situated in Hubei), entry into state territory. South Africa has also taken precautionary measures and introduced a temporary visa concession for Chinese nationals currently holding visitors visas and temporary residence visas, in light of the coronavirus outbreak. V.5054

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Young adults born in SA denied right to apply for citizenship

Citizenship as a tool of exclusion was a staple of apartheid-era oppression in South Africa. It was with this in mind that the opening words of the Freedom Charter and later the preamble of the Constitution proclaimed, ‘South Africa belongs to all who live in it’. V.5262

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Concourt brings relief to children of foreign parents

If you were born in South Africa to non-citizens you can apply to be a citizen Minister of Home Affairs Aaron Motsoaledi. The Concourt was unimpressed by his department’s handling of applications for citizenship by children born to foreign parents. Archive photo: Tariro Washinyira It has taken four years of legal battles, but now if you were born in South Africa to foreign parents you can apply for citizenship. It has been an “agonizing journey” for those who consider South Africa to be their only home. V.5052

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Home Affairs Minister Motsoaledi on tougher new laws for refugees in SA

Foreign refugees in South Africa have just been banned from political activity �` as SA builds `a paper wall` against immigration https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Sx0CmJ0hVsQ Refugees - we can help you change from Asylum Seeker to Temporary Residence and Permanent Residence and not be caught out How can we help you , please email us to info@samigration.com or whatsapp me on +2782 373 8415, where are you now? check our website : www.samigration.com V.5048

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South Africa: Asylum Seeker Wins Right to Marry

The Supreme Court of Appeal has declared Home Affairs`s prohibition on asylum seekers marrying unconstitutional If you are an asylum seeker whose application for asylum in terms of Section 21 of the Refugee Act has not been finalised, you are still permitted to enter into a marriage. The Supreme Court of Appeal (SCA) affirmed this in a judgment handed down in October. Background V.5046

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South Africa: Asylum Seeker Wins Right to Marry

The Supreme Court of Appeal has declared Home Affairs`s prohibition on asylum seekers marrying unconstitutional If you are an asylum seeker whose application for asylum in terms of Section 21 of the Refugee Act has not been finalised, you are still permitted to enter into a marriage. The Supreme Court of Appeal (SCA) affirmed this in a judgment handed down in October. V.5175

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Zim transgender asylum-seeker wins SA High Court appeal

A Zimbabwean transgender woman has successfully won her appeal at the South African High Court, stopping that country’s immigration department from deporting her. The High Court ordered her release from detention, stopped her deportation and ruled she could approach the Refugee Centre to submit her application for asylum. The court order also ordered the Ministry of Justice and Correctional Services and the Director of Public Prosecutions: Gauteng Local Division and National Prosecution Authority to pay the costs of the applicant’s application. V.5047

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Marriage fraudsters could have their citizenship revoked

Marriages of convenience, which are mostly used by foreigners to gain SA citizenship will become a “dangerous game” to play in future, warns home affairs minister Aaron Motsoaledi. While the country has become a haven for bogus marriages Motsoaledi said a proposed new marriage statute will make it “very difficult” to marry someone in absentia, which is currently the main driver of the country’s fake marriages. So serious is he about stopping fraudulent marriages that his office has started revoking the citizenship of those found to have forged their unions. V.5049

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Citizenship case reveals chaos at Home Affairs as it battles 8,000 lawsuits

A case brought before court on behalf of a group of stateless people, claiming that they lost their South African citizenship by descent when the law was changed, has revealed absolute chaos at the Department of Home Affairs, which had to send a heavyweight legal team to the Constitutional Court on 13 February 2020 to plea for permission to have another chance to overturn a court order they claim will open the floodgates to millions of people who want citizenship to access grants. V.5050

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Citizenship case reveals chaos at Home Affairs as it battles 8,000 lawsuits

A case brought before court on behalf of a group of stateless people, claiming that they lost their South African citizenship by descent when the law was changed, has revealed absolute chaos at the Department of Home Affairs, which had to send a heavyweight legal team to the Constitutional Court on 13 February 2020 to plea for permission to have another chance to overturn a court order they claim will open the floodgates to millions of people who want citizenship to access grants. V.5051

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Citizenship case reveals chaos at Home Affairs as it battles 8,000 lawsuits

A case brought before court on behalf of a group of stateless people, claiming that they lost their South African citizenship by descent when the law was changed, has revealed absolute chaos at the Department of Home Affairs, which had to send a heavyweight legal team to the Constitutional Court on 13 February 2020 to plea for permission to have another chance to overturn a court order they claim will open the floodgates to millions of people who want citizenship to access grants. V.5177

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Home Affairs to extend operating hours at modernized offices

This means that Home Affairs offices will serve clients from 08h00 in the morning until 19h00 in the evening on weekdays, for the whole month, excluding weekends. V.5045

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Amended Refugee Act restricts fundamental rights

Minister of Home Affairs Aaron Motsoaledi says Refugee Act amendments tie up loose ends and reduce regulation abuse. Others say they curtail the human rights of refugees and asylum seekers. Minister of Home Affairs Aaron Motsoaledi has defended the new amendments to the Refugees Act that came into effect at the beginning of the year, saying they serve to tie up loose ends and fill gaps that led to regulation abuse. But they have been met with an avalanche of criticism citing human rights. V.5042

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South African Tourism Set To Roll Out E-Visa Facility For Indian Tourists

South Africa has taken several measures to provide ease of access to Indian tourists. V.5041

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South Africans to pay more for Schengen Visas

South Africans will as from next month pay a fee of €80 (R1,283) instead of €60 (R962) when applying for a Schengen Visa from South Africa. The increase also affects children, who will now have to pay €40 (R642) instead of €35 (R561), as it is currently. South Africans will also be subjected to several changes in terms of visa application procedures, rules and benefits, starting from February. V.5043

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Immigration official arrested in sting over R100 000 ‘bribe’

An immigration official appeared in the Kempton Park Regional Court on Monday and remains in custody after being charged with corruption, extortion and defeating the ends of justice. Police spokesperson Brigadier Vishnu Naidoo confirmed Sam Jan Langa, 52, of the Department of Home Affairs` national office was arrested on Thursday. V.5040

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New tighter laws for South Africa`s border control

Cape Town - The home affairs committee has backed new regulations on refugees saying they would tighten the immigration system. This comes after Home Affairs Minister Aaron Motsoaledi recently gazetted the regulations. The regulations would be among other statutes that would ban refugees from political activity. V.5038

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Lawyers for Human Rights to challenge the amendment of Refugee Act

Some of the changes in the Refugee Act include preventing asylum-seekers from participating in political activity, clamping down on businesses and regulations on where they can work or go to school. V.5039

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South African living in the UK caught out by New Zealand`s new visa rules

We all hate the admin of visas - and many countries are tightening border security - even for visitors who are visa exempt - with the risk of not having the necessary documentation heightened. New Zealand`s influx of visitors has seen it implement new security measures for travellers from 60 visa-waiver countries, in October 2019. V.5044

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Illegal In South Africa �` What are my options ?

Talk to us and see how we can assist you !! We are experts in this area of immigration law. V.4658

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Visa waivers and fast-track entry

Are any visa waiver or fast-track entry programmes available? South Africa Sa Migration International See question 5 regarding the distinction between visa-exempt and non- visa-exempt countries. There are currently no fast-track entry programmes available; however, the DHA is planning to roll out an electronic visa (e-visa) regime prior to the end of 2019. Long-term transfers V.5027

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Short-term transfers

In what circumstances is a visa necessary for short-term travellers? How are short-term visas obtained? South Africa Sa Migration International The South African government distinguishes between visa-exempt and non- visa-exempt nationalities. Visa-exempt nationals may travel to South Africa for periods of up to 30 or 90 days (the distinction depends upon their nationality) for tourism and limited business purposes and receive the visitor’s visa upon arrival at the South African port of entry. V.5028

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Corporate Immigration General framework Legislation

What primary and secondary legislation governs immigration in your jurisdiction? South Africa Sa Migration International South African immigration is governed by the Immigration Amendment Act (the Act) and Regulations thereto (implemented on 26 May 2014), which controls the movement of foreign nationals who enter the country for purposes of investing their financial resources, skills and experience in order to promote economic growth. V.5029

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Corporate visa

A corporate visa is an approval granted to an employer to employ a predetermined number of foreign nationals within specific roles for a limited duration. Owing to the nature of the approval, a corporate visa requires the involvement and approval of the DoL, the DTI and the DHA. Upon identification of a suitable foreign resource, the holder of the corporate visa must apply to the DHA for the issuance of an individual authorisation certificate to enable the foreign national to apply for an individual corporate work visa within a specific role or position. V.5030

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High net worth individuals and investors

Is there a special route for high net worth individuals or investors? South Africa Sa Migration International With respect to applications for temporary residence (work and visitors’ visas), there are currently no special routes for high net worth individuals or investors involving reduced lead times. However, individuals or investors intending to permanently reside in South Africa may investigate applying under the minimum net worth category subject to meeting a prescribed minimum net worth (currently 12 million rand) and upon payment of an application fee of 120,000 rand. V.5031

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High Court Slams Home Affairs for poor and unclear Visa rejection letters

The Department of Home Affairs is usually rejecting visa cases on a regular basis without giving any reason for it. The South African Court handed down an interesting judgement last week, which will hopefully if embraced by home affairs lead to clarity on many of the rejections that don’t make sense or one can see no thought was given to it . V.5020

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Emigration guide: from Australia to Canada, South Africa, New Zealand and the USA

Enough, already �` hands up who has Brexit fatigue. The political purgatory as Britain attempts to leave the European Union is utterly exhausting. So if you want to get on with your life and escape the entire continent, where do you go? V.5023

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Facial recognition tech would save Aussies $2.2 billion - so is it a good idea?

Privacy concerns about national facial recognition database A Liberal senator says the federal government must push on with legislation for facial recognition technology to prevent Australians losing $2.2 billion each year through identity theft. V.5024

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Home Affairs wants to go easier on visa applications �` after rejecting 36,000 last year

Minister of Home Affairs Aaron Motsoaledi has released new statistics outlining the number of people that have been denied a visa to South Africa. V.5022

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Motsoaledi says children of migrants should be in school

Every child needs to go to school, Minister of Home Affairs Aaron Motsoaledi has said. He said when he asked the Department of Basic Education why immigrant children were barred from school, he was told the department was scared of home affairs inspectors. `That can`t happen in any modern democracy. I told them home affairs inspectors must not visit any schools unless there is a crime committed that needs home affairs. It`s more dangerous to have a child who is not in school.` V.5019

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Informal village springs up in Cape Town CBD as sit-in continues at UN refugee offices

A huge bag of chicken and bunches of spinach were being prepared for hundreds of foreign nationals still camping out at the UN High Commission for Refugees` offices in Cape Town`s CBD on Monday in the hopes of being evacuated from South Africa. Some foreign nationals want to be evacuated from SA. V.5025

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Informal village springs up in Cape Town CBD as sit-in continues at UN refugee offices

A huge bag of chicken and bunches of spinach were being prepared for hundreds of foreign nationals still camping out at the UN High Commission for Refugees` offices in Cape Town`s CBD on Monday in the hopes of being evacuated from South Africa. Some foreign nationals want to be evacuated from SA. V.5026

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Home Affairs` ban on asylum seekers getting married is unconstitutional, SCA rules

If you are an asylum seeker whose application for asylum in terms of Section 21 of the Refugee Act has not been finalised, you are still permitted to enter into a marriage. The Supreme Court of Appeal (SCA) affirmed this in a judgment handed down in October. V.5021

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Home affairs is urgently seeking ‘a divorce’

Minister of Home Affairs Aaron Motsoaledi is urgently seeking “a divorce” from sister departments public works, the State Information Technology Agency (Sita) and Bosasa which, he says, are all hindering the work of his department. Motsoaledi and acting director-general Thulani Mavuso appeared before Parliament’s portfolio committee on home affairs this week to account for the department’s financial health. V.5015

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KZN Health withdraws circular on foreign doctors

KwaZulu-Natal Health MEC, Nomagugu Simelane-Zulu says the department has decided to withdraw a circular stating that the hiring of foreign doctors would be put on hold. The Africa News Agency earlier reported that the internal circular released last week was signed by acting head of Health, Musa Gumede. Gumede said the decision was taken to prioritise South African doctors trained in Cuba. Simelane-Zulu says she has decided to do her own investigation into the matter. V.5008

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Media Statement: South African Human Rights Commission Releases Final Position Paper on Access to a Basic Education for Undocumented Learners

The South African Human Rights Commission (SAHRC or Commission) has released its Position Paper on Access to a Basic Education for Undocumented Learners, inclusive of findings and recommendations addressed to the State. The release of this Paper follows an extensive consultation process with relevant stakeholders. Thousands of children across the country face insurmountable barriers in accessing school on a continuous basis as a result of their undocumented status. In line with the current laws and policies, certain documentation must be submitted in order to enroll a child at school, and the failure to submit, or the inability to do so, results in the exclusion of the child. V.5010

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Immigration visa row in Vietnam

An immigration officer at the South African embassy in Hanoi, Vietnam, has been threatened with insubordination for refusing to overturn her decision that a Filipino national should not be given a visa to teach in this country. That application started during the xenophobic attacks in August in South Africa, when the immigration officer �` Mmatlou Machimana �` received an application from a Filipino national who had landed a job at the American International School of Johannesburg. V.5016

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Mother challenges home affairs

Chantel* was only 15 years old when she hopped the Eswatini-South African border in early 2007. She says she lived her whole life in an orphanage in Manzini, never knew her biological parents and never saw her birth certificate. Abuse was rife. “The conditions were unbearable. V.5012

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South Africa: Angolan Former Refugees Face Uncertain Future

About 2,000 Angolan former refugees, many of whom have lived in South Africa for decades, may have to leave at the end of 2021. According to the Scalabrini Centre, which has been fighting on behalf of the Angolans, the 2,000 former refugees have lived in South Africa for an average of 20 years. The year 2021 is the deadline for the end of the Angolan Special Permit - a temporary permit issued to Angolans whose refugee status ceased in 2013. Now, an Angolan committee has written to Home Affairs in a bid to clarify what will happen to them when the deadline comes in two years. V.5013

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India climbs down the list of visa-free countries since 2010

An Indian passport holder can obtain a visa for visa-free nations after landing in the country or have a visa permit or electronic travel authority received after reaching the destination. According to the Henley Passport Index, the Indian passport’s strength- number of countries it can access without a visa- has weakened since 2010. An Indian passport holder can obtain a visa for visa-free nations after landing in the country or have a visa permit or electronic travel authority received after reaching the destination. V.5017

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Home Affairs extends Vision-Box airport departures smartgates deal

But no word on status of arrivals deal. Vision-Box will continue to provide smartgates in the departure halls of Australia’s international airports until 2026 after the Department of Home Affairs extended its contract for a yet undisclosed value. The border technology provider revealed late on Thursday that it had secured a five-year extension to its six-year contract with the department inked back in April 2015. The existing contract �` which started life valued at $18 million, but has since grown to just over $41 million �` was not due to expire until June 2021. V.5014

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New law to block foreigners from working in certain sectors in South Africa

The Department of Small Business Development is working on a new law that will restrict foreigners from working in certain sections of the economy. In an interview with 702, small business development minister Khumbudzo Ntshavheni said that the legislation in line with other countries �` such as Nigeria and Zimbabwe �` that have regulations specifying the sectors where foreign nationals are not allowed to participate. V.5009

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Schools expel children with no IDs

Two children, then aged eight and 14, from Sterkspruit in the Eastern Cape had to leave school in 2015 and sit at home after being chased out of their primary school because they did not have birth certificates. In Alexandria, also in the Eastern Cape, eight learners from a safe house for abandoned and orphaned children were expelled from a primary school for the same reason. V.5011

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Why would I use a registered migration agent?/ Practitioner?

Although you do not have to use a registered migration agent to lodge your visa application, they might be able to help you if your case is complex or you require immigration assistance. V.4787

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MEDIA STATEMENT ON SOCIAL MEDIA SCAM ALERT

The Department of Home Affairs has noted messages on social media saying there are people pretending to be Home Affairs officials only to rob people once they have gained access to their homes. The message alleges that they are carrying letterheads purportedly from the department. V.5004

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Home affairs to roll out face, iris recognition system

The Department of Home Affairs (DHA) will soon roll out a multimodal biometrics system, which uses multiple sources of authentication, including face, iris, palm print, finger vein and infant footprints. This was the word from Eugene le Roux, chief executive of NEC XON Africa, speaking to ITWeb on the side-lines of the NEC XON Summit 2019, taking place yesterday at Sun City in the North-West Province. V.5018

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She does not know him`: How to get a fraudulent marriage annulled

What to do if Home Affairs fails you? In 2012 when my cousin went to register to vote , she was told that she was married and her surname was even changed. She then went to Home Affairs and gave them all supporting documents , including an affidavit , to say that the marriage was conducted fraudulently and she does not know him. She was then told that the marriage was annulled. Earlier this year when she went to register to vote my cousin was again told that she is married. They asked again for all documents, she submitted new documents and the ones she submitted in 2012 . Ever since then, Home Affairs is giving her the run around for the last few months . V.5007

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Mangosuthu Buthelezi`s message against xenophobia

IFP president emeritus and traditional prime minister to the Zulu nation, Mangosuthu Buthelezi, met with the community to quell tensions in light of recent xenophobic attacks on foreign nationals on September 8 2019. Below is his full speech. Johannesburg, September 8 2019 I come here today not as a politician, but as an elder. There is a terrible quarrel in our nation with foreign nationals who are living amongst us. Lives have been lost and property damaged. V.5005

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Mangosuthu Buthelezi`s message against xenophobia

IFP president emeritus and traditional prime minister to the Zulu nation, Mangosuthu Buthelezi, met with the community to quell tensions in light of recent xenophobic attacks on foreign nationals on September 8 2019. Below is his full speech. Johannesburg, September 8 2019 I come here today not as a politician, but as an elder. There is a terrible quarrel in our nation with foreign nationals who are living amongst us. Lives have been lost and property damaged. V.5006

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South Africa’s first ever e-visas are now available in New Zealand

�` visitors can now print visas at home Business Insider SA - Apr 09, 2019 • The department of tourism said the first e-visas to South Africa will be issued in New Zealand in April. • The new visas will allow prospective visitors to apply for a visa online, and print visas at home. • The Western Cape investment agency said they have already seen New Zealand bookings increase by 7%, and is expecting that number to rise. V.4861

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New critical skills list for SA expected in 2020

The department of higher education has begun the lengthy process of compiling a new list of critical skills that will be used to determine whether a foreigner may apply for a visa to live and work in SA. V.4995

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Two million risk becoming stateless after Indian state releases final list of citizens

NEW DELHI - Nearly two million people risk statelessness and detention after they were left off the final version of a registry of Indian citizens, part of a controversial exercise to identify suspected illegal migrants in the northeastern state of Assam. The National Register of Citizens released Saturday morning included the names of 31 million people and excluded 1.9 million V.4999

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Where are the foreign language guides?

A shortage of capable foreign language tour guides is hurting the South African tourism industry and preventing businesses from making progress in key markets. V.5000

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German businesses to SA: Protect wildlife, relax Visa regulations and improve diversity in tourism sector

Stand up for wildlife protection, improve black ownership in the tourism space and make it easier for families to travel together, German businesses told stakeholders in SA`s tourism industry. German trade partners had an opportunity to raise their concerns about their experiences operating in SA`s tourism industry at a roundtable discussion at the 53rd Internationale Tourismus-Borse (ITB) world trade show in Berlin, Germany on Wednesday. V.5002

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Are water shortages driving migration? Researchers dispel myths

STOCKHOLM (Thomson Reuters Foundation) - Water scarcity is one factor driving millions of people from their homes each year but is often not the only reason why they move, researchers told an international conference on Tuesday. In most cases, other economic and social problems like conflict, corruption or a lack of jobs contribute to the decision to leave, they said. V.4998

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Immigrant traders not welcome in the formal economy

Immigrant traders not welcome in the formal economy Tax compliance and business registration is a lengthy, tedious affair 29 August 2019 �` Business Day It is well established that there is all manner of undesirable activity in the inner city of Johannesburg, undertaken by immigrants and locals alike. V.4996

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African Migrants Protest Denial of Passage Through Mexico to U.S.

Hundreds of African migrants are finding themselves trapped in Mexico’s southern border region after new immigration rules no longer allow them safe passage to the U.S. The rule changes now say they must naturalize in Mexico or exit through its southern border. V.5001

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Visa easing is a ray of light in a spooky time

I have news. “As from today [August 15], travellers from Qatar, Saudi Arabia, United Arab Emirates and New Zealand will no longer require a visa to visit SA for holidays, conferencing, and business meeting visits,” Aaron Motsoaledi, the minister of home affairs, declared. V.5003

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Scalabrini Centre hopeful CT Refugee Reception Office reopens soon

CAPE TOWN �` NGO the Scalabrini Centre is hopeful the Cape Town Refugee Reception Office will eventually open early next year. V.4989

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Passport application at banks: 10 crucial tips 2019

Based on the launched online service by the Department of Home Affairs which grants the people of South Africa the opportunity to carry out their passport application at banks, getting one`s passport has become a lot easier. V.4990

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New visa process in Tanzania

With immediate effect, Kilimanjaro airport has changed the process of issuing visas on arrival. V.4991

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`I was a prisoner in this country` - Limpopo man sues home affairs for R400m after identity theft

He had it all �` a successful medical career, thriving businesses, health and happiness �` and life was as good as he’d ever hoped it could be. V.4992

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Obstructionist home affairs officials bar entry of foreign investors

No matter how conducive new legislation is to immigration, its success will depend on how it is implemented V.4993

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Obstructionist home affairs officials bar entry of foreign investors

No matter how conducive new legislation is to immigration, its success will depend on how it is implemented V.4994

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Home Office outsourcing to ‘exploitative’ contractor must be reviewed, say MPs and lawyers

Calls for investigation into outsourced immigration services after The Independent revealed Home Office profits on UK visas surged by millions of pounds a week under private firm accused of exploiting applicants V.4988

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Mother challenges home affairs

Chantel* was only 15 years old when she hopped the Eswatini-South African border in early 2007. She says she lived her whole life in an orphanage in Manzini, never knew her biological parents and never saw her birth certificate V.4987

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MEDIA STATEMENT HOME AFFAIRS IMPLEMENTS VISA WAIVERS FOR FOUR COUNTRIES WHICH ARE AMONG THE BIG TOURIST SENDING NATIONS Ghana, Cuba and Principe and Sao Tome

The Minister of Home Affairs Dr Aaron Motsoaledi is pleased to announce that nationals from four of the seven countries he granted visa-free status during his Budget Vote speech will be able to travel to South Africa without visas from today. V.4979

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US increases Green Card investment threshold for foreigners

The US government has announced that an increase in the investment threshold for foreigners to access a US Green Card via the Immigrant Investor EB-5 Programme will come into effect from November 21, 2019, when the amount will increase from $500 000 (about R7.5m) to $900 000 (about R13.5m). V.4981

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SA does not need a loan but it can do much better on growth policies, says IMF

The International Monetary Fund’s (IMF) senior resident representative in South Africa Montfort Mlachila has confirmed that South Africa has not requested an IMF loan and he added that, “We will not see a balance of payments (support programme) for South Africa.” V.4983

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Ramaphosa signs `debt relief bill`

President Cyril Ramaphosa has signed into law the controversial National Credit Amendment Bill which is geared to provide relief to over-indebted consumers V.4985

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Two EC home affairs officials, middleman nabbed for demanding R40k bribe

CAPE TOWN, - Two immigration officials and an alleged `middleman` are in police custody after being arrested this week in connection with a bribery scheme, the Directorate for Priority Crime Investigation (Hawks) said on Wednesday. V.4980

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A gem of an employee at Home Affairs

We, as South Africans, always complain about government service, however, I am extremely excited to report that my son arrived at Home Affairs on Wednesday morning on July 31 with an expectation of long queues, disinterested staff and very little help. V.4986

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It’s time to take tourism seriously

There is great potential for the tourism industry to boost South Africa’s economy, and help alleviate the high levels of unemployment. But for some reason, tourism as an industry is often overlooked as a serious economic sector. Gillian Saunders, who was Special Adviser to former Tourism Minister Derek Hanekom between April 2018 and May 2019, shares her thoughts. V.4971

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ConCourt judgment on spousal visas will help keep families together

Foreign nationals with South African or permanent resident spouses do not have to leave the country to apply for spousal visas. The Constitutional Court handed down a judgment at the end of June that has important consequences for immigrants. A majority of the judges ruled that foreign spouses of South African citizens and permanent residents may apply for a spousal visa within South Africa and do not have to apply for such a visa overseas. V.4972

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Home Affairs minister grilled on Cape Town reception office delays

Home Affairs Minister Aaron Motsoaledi has blamed delays in the re-opening of the Cape Town Refugee Reception Office on the procurement of premises by the Department of Public Works. Motsoaledi revealed this in a written response to a question from DA MP Christopher Roos, who asked about the date for the re- opening. Roos wanted to know what lay behind the delays that resulted in Home Affairs missing the March 2018 court deadline to reopen the centre. V.4973

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Reviewing foreign policy to protect Nigerians abroad

. How has the permanent residency application process been affected by the 2014 immigration regulation revisions? The 2014 immigration regulation changes affect everything from the fees associated with application process to the process itself. To learn more, have a look at our articles . Otherwise, be aware that all information below reflects the changes. V.4965

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High number of undocumented immigrants `untenable` - committee on Home Affairs

It is `untenable` that South Africa can have large numbers of undocumented immigrants, chairperson of the Portfolio Committee on Home Affairs Bongani Bongo said. V.4977

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Home affairs portfolio committee promises tighter borders

The Joburg mayor accused the department of slackness in dealing with illegal and undocumented immigrants in the city. V.4978

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Reviewing foreign policy to protect Nigerians abroad

Following a series of diplomatic blunders by Nigeria in the past three years, ADELANI ADEPEGBA writes that the immediate past Minister of Foreign Affairs, Geoffrey Onyeama, must turn over a new leaf if asked to head the same ministry V.4974

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Peter Dutton and the great Australian tourist visa scam with VFS Global

INTERNATIONAL TOURISM is one of the bright lights of the Australian economy with almost 10 million international visitors to Australia last year and growing around 9% per annum. This contributes almost AUD $50 billion to the Australian economy per annum, about AUD $3.5 billion in foreign exchange per month and directly supports more than 100,000 Australian jobs. V.4966

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Peter Dutton and the great Australian tourist visa scam with VFS Global

INTERNATIONAL TOURISM is one of the bright lights of the Australian economy with almost 10 million international visitors to Australia last year and growing around 9% per annum. This contributes almost AUD $50 billion to the Australian economy per annum, about AUD $3.5 billion in foreign exchange per month and directly supports more than 100,000 Australian jobs. V.4975

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Job creation hampered by tourism visa rules and Eskom SA`s unemployment rate has climbed to its highest level since 2008

SA is not able to create jobs due to stringent tourism visa rules and unreliable electricity supply, a report following Cyril Ramaphosa’s job summit showed on Thursday, days after official data revealed that the unemployment rate had climbed to its highest level since 2008. V.4997

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Permanent homosexual or heterosexual relationship - Clarifying the 2 years of relationship vs a recent divorce or a previous life partner visa cancelled in less than 2 years

Herewith find a clear understanding of this often misunderstood section of the Act . When one looks at specifically the definition of a relationship as defined in the Act and The Regulations which is quoted below we wish to draw your attention to specifically to point 3 (2) ( a) (i) and (ii) which must be read very carefully and we highlight and bold the relevant sections and in particular wish to point out all the Act requires is that evidence of the relationship is for 2 years V.4982

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South Africa Work Visa

South Africa seeks skilled individuals to live and work in SA. V.4984

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Integrity investigation ordered into Government and Crown Casino handing of foreign visitors

Commonwealth authorities and Crown Casino will face an integrity investigation amid allegations about efforts to lure Chinese gamblers to Australia V.4964

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Dusting off the Border Management Authority Bill borders on mismanagement

Home Affairs’ insistence on proceeding with the Border Management Authority Bill will likely rile National Treasury and the police because both have raised objections about its blurring of mandates. Plus, South Africa is too broke to be setting up a new border agency V.4958

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Key takeouts from the home affairs budget vote

Deputy home affairs minister zeroes in on immigration, visa requirements and modernising the department V.4960

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No papers but a home: Somali women take on South Africa`s property market

JOHANNESBURG (Thomson Reuters Foundation) - In the hallway of a large, brick-face apartment block in Johannesburg, Halima Jawahir greets her tenants, a group of six Somali women drying their henna-painted hands in the sunlight streaming through the windows. V.4962

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Huge backlog of visa claims build under Dutton`s watch

The Government has at last responded to the chaos in our visa system, writes Abul Rizvi. V.4956

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Nationalisation of land not on the cards - presidential panel member

Although many opponents of expropriation of land without compensation equates this with nationalisation, and the EFF`s policy is that land should be nationalised, the Constitution currently does not provide for this, one of the members of the presidential panel of experts on land reform and agriculture, Bulelwa Mabasa, explained on Sunday as the panel`s report was introduced to the public. V.4957

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Here are the changes for I.D books and birth certificates at Home Affairs

The Department of Home Affairs has released details on how to change your personal information in your I.D document and birth certificate. Here’s what you need to know. V.4961

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Mozambique doubles tourist visa fee

All single-entry visas applied for in foreign travellers’ countries of origin will be affected by the fee increases. V.4955

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Women lash out at home affairs after surname changes

A column by Sarah Wild in which she describes her ordeal of having her surname changed without her consent after getting married has sparked an outrage on social media, with many women claiming to have experienced the same problem. V.4963

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Home Affairs requires husbands to give women consent to change their names and it`s an affront

When I went to vote in the 2016 local elections, I found that I didn`t exist on the voters` role. A strange woman with my ID number and my husband`s surname did, though, writes Sarah Wild. V.4954

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3 ways South Africans are moving to the United States

More South Africans are emigrating to the United States (US) in search of a better lifestyle and job opportunities. According to data provided by the US Citizenship and Immigration Services, between 2015 and 2017 around 10,200 South Africans obtained permanent resident status. V.4968

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Fewer than 1 in 6 asylum seekers in SA granted refugee status

Not even one out of six asylum seekers seeking refuge in South Africa are granted refugee status. V.4951

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South Africa losing critical skills

South Africa continues to lose critical skills. That’s according to a survey by consultant firm, Xpatweb. Courtesy #DStv403 JOHANNESBURG - South Africa continues to lose critical skills, that’s according to a survey by consultant firm, Xpatweb. There is a global shortage of skills in professions like artisans, doctors and nurses, as well as ICT practitioners. V.4950

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Luxury Blue Mountains hotel group clawing back wages from migrant workers

The Department of Home Affairs and the Fair Work Ombudsman are investigating a luxury Blue Mountains hotel group after a Sun-Herald investigation found it is clawing back wages from migrant workers through overpriced accommodation and unpaid overtime. V.4949

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ConCourt ruling on foreign spousal and chilren visa laws major impact �` apply from a tourist within South Africa

A week ago, the Constitutional Court set the state a deadline to change immigration regulations that currently require foreign spouses or children of South African citizens to leave the country to renew their visitor`s visas. They can now apply with immediate effect to change from a tourist visa to relatives visa V.4943

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Constitutional Court gives state two years to amend foreign spousal visa laws

Laws requiring foreigners married to South African citizens to leave the country to renew their visas have been declared constitutionally invalid. V.4944

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`Intensify the fight on long queues`: Home Affairs tackles service issues

Building a `world class` visa regime, new legislation on immigration and getting rid of those pesky lines at Department of Home Affairs offices are some of the top priorities for the department this year. V.4945

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7 new countries can now visit South Africa visa-free

The Department of Home Affairs says the country’s new eVisa system will launch in November 2019, and it has added new nations to the list of countries that can enter South Africa visa-free V.4946

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Spain: 23% Fewer Illegal Immigrants Arrive In First Half Of 2019 Than Last Year

A total of 13,263 illegal immigrants arrived in Spain between January and the end of June 2019. This is 4,037 fewer than in 2018, when a total of 17,300 had arrived by July 1. The number of illegal immigrants arriving in Spain during the first six months of 2019 has fallen by 23.3% when compared with the same period in 2018. According to the latest immigration figures, a total of 13,263 illegal immigrants arrived in Spain between January and the end of June 2019. This is 4,037 fewer than in 2018, when a total of 17,300 had arrived by July 1. V.4947

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ConCourt ruling on foreign spousal and chilren visa laws major impact �` apply from a tourist within South Africa

A week ago, the Constitutional Court set the state a deadline to change immigration regulations that currently require foreign spouses or children of South African citizens to leave the country to renew their visitor`s visas. They can now apply with immediate effect to change from a tourist visa to relatives visa The court declared the rules constitutionally invalid because in effect, they separate families. V.4948

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SA visa reform kicks in as New Zealand and 6 other countries given free entry

Rampahosa: Tourism is the new gold in Africa President Cyril Ramaphosa has made it clear that South Africa`s tourism industry is open for business, at the closing of Africa`s Travel Indaba concluded on 4 May. V.4934

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Home Affairs Accused Of Undermining Goal For United Africa

Two of the main opposition parties have criticised Home Affairs Department for its handling of refugees and asylum seekers. V.4939

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How far your visa fees would get you in countries South Africa just scrapped visas for

Quick Guide: New Zealand (6 essentials to know) Want to go to New Zealand? Here are 6 important things South Africans should know before going. V.4953

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