Articles Archive
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27. Aug. 2024 Sowetan Live
Court rules in favour of traditional wife and nullifies civil marriage
Hilda Sedinjane turned to the Limpopo High Court in Polokwane for an order that she be recognised as the true wife of deceased Seabela Malatji. The parties concluded a customary marriage in 1988 as evidenced by a lobola certificate and four children were born of the marriage. V.5574
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26. Aug. 2024 Cape Times
Outdated systems expose Home Affairs
Home Affairs Minister Leon Schreiber on Tuesday said his department should urgently embrace technology, or South Africas national security would be under threat. Schreiber said the problems in the issuance of fraudulent visas pointed the department towards a solution that lay in embracing digital transformation in all its facets and across the department. V.5571
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26. Aug. 2024 Polity
Home Affairs committee wants inspectorate unit strengthened to track foreign nationals
The Portfolio Committee on Home Affairs pointed out that while the deportation of 95 Libyan nationals has been effected, the need to strengthen the inspectorate unit of the department is necessary and called for an enhanced monitoring tool to track foreign nationals in the country. Earlier this week, the Department of Home Affairs (DHA) concluded its preparations to deport the 95 Libyan nationals, after they were arrested in White River, Mpumalanga, last month. V.5572
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23. Aug. 2024 Sowetan Live
Two more people caught over IDs-for-sale scam
Duo`s arrests follow that of home affairs office cleaner Office cleaner Rhandzu Chauke with family and lawyer outside the Pretoria magistrates court, this after appearing on the charge of theft of home affairs stamp. The arrest of two undocumented Mozambican nationals in connection with the selling of fake IDs has lifted a lid on an alleged documents-for-cash scheme believed to be happening at the home affairs office in Centurion. V.5562
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23. Aug. 2024 TIMES TRAVEL
How to apply for Greece tourist visa: A step-by-step guide
Synopsis Travelers planning to visit Greece need a Schengen visa. The process includes scheduling an appointment, filling out an application form, submitting required documents, attending an interview, and waiting for processing. Greece is a gorgeous European nation noted for its iconic island destinations such as Santorini and Mykonos, among others. Those planning a trip to Greece, applying for a tourist visa is a must. Because Greece is a European nation, youll need to apply for a Schenegen visa. However its an easy process if you are aware of all the necessary steps carefully. V.5564
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23. Aug. 2024 Daad
Austria Job Seeker VISA With Family VISA Application Process
Ever dreamt of swapping your daily grind for a life filled with stunning mountain views, world-class music, and enough pastries to make your heart sing? Well, Austria is ready to roll out the red carpet for you! One of the key pathways to entering Austria as a skilled worker is through the Austrian Job Seeker Visa (Category D). V.5566
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23. Aug. 2024 Daily Maverick
Deadly Marabastad stampede sheds light on struggles of undocumented migrants in SA
Police are investigating a stampede that took place at the Home Affairs offices in Marabastad in Pretoria in which one person died and 20 more were injured. The story of Chidimma Vanessa Adetshina and how she became a contestant in the Miss South Africa pageant has cast notions of nationality and access to documentation for foreign nationals living in South Africa into the spotlight. V.5568
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23. Aug. 2024 DW
New Zealand: Emigration soars amid economic woes
New Zealand`s population of 5.3 million grew by just 0.1% (7,000) in the second quarter of 2024 as the number of those leaving the country reached well over 100,000 in the first half of the year, official statistics showed on Monday. The practical stagnation in population growth comes despite record numbers of arrivals in recent years driven largely by the island nation`s reputation for high living and working standards and as a haven of security in an increasingly troubled world. V.5569
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23. Aug. 2024 DW
New Zealand: Emigration soars amid economic woes
New Zealand`s population of 5.3 million grew by just 0.1% (7,000) in the second quarter of 2024 as the number of those leaving the country reached well over 100,000 in the first half of the year, official statistics showed on Monday. The practical stagnation in population growth comes despite record numbers of arrivals in recent years driven largely by the island nation`s reputation for high living and working standards and as a haven of security in an increasingly troubled world. V.5570
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21. Aug. 2024 IOL
Visa backlog: Portfolio committee welcomes overtime approval for Home Affairs officials
The Portfolio Committee on Public Service and Administration has welcomed the approval of overtime for Home Affairs officials to reduce the visa backlog. This comes after Minister of Public Service and Administration, Inkosi Mzamo Buthelezi and his department granted the overtime request from Homes Affairs Minister Leon Schreiber for the next three months to meet target and reduce the backlog. V.5560
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20. Aug. 2024 News 24
While Schreiber wants to bring dignity to Home Affairs, xenophobia rears its head in budget debate
Several parties represented in Parliament blamed undocumented migrants for crime and draining social services during the debate on the Department of Home Affairs` budget. Claims undocumented migrants are disproportionately responsible for crime or are depleting South African taxes without contributing, have previously been debunked. New Home Affairs Minister Leon Schreiber said he wanted to bring dignity back to the department`s work. V.5555
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20. Aug. 2024 Groundup
Judge slams law firm for misleading court with `cut-and-paste` applications targeting refugees
Gauteng Judge President Dunstan Mlambo has slammed a firm of attorneys and an advocate for `cut-and-paste` work in cases involving refugees. He ordered them to pay out of their own pockets for costs awarded in these cases. Manamela MA Attorneys was running a `cottage industry`, preying on vulnerable refugees, Mlambo said. A firm of attorneys and an advocate have been ordered to pay the costs, from their own pockets, of six `cut-and-paste` applications involving refugees seeking asylum, GroundUp reports. V.5556
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20. Aug. 2024 My Broadband
How to get your new Smart ID at a bank
South Africans looking to upgrade their green ID booklet to a smart ID card can book an appointment to do so using the Department of Home Affairs (DHA) eHomeAffairs platform. Moreover, the system allows applicants to book appointments at DHA-supported bank branches across the country, meaning they never have to step foot in a Home Affairs office or face the associated queues. V.5557
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20. Aug. 2024 SowetanLive
How stolen home affairs stamp led to cleaner`s bust
A year and four months after a stamp used to authenticate documents was stolen at a home affairs office, a 24-year-old man presented a birth certificate bearing the same stamp to apply for an ID. The certificate, however, was found to be fake and was produced four months after the stamp was stolen. V.5559
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19. Aug. 2024 SABC 3
Spaza shop owners cry foul regarding Gauteng government funding
Local entrepreneurs and spaza shop owners have lashed out at the Gauteng Department of Economic Development for failing to deliver on their promises which were part of the R100 million Kasi Mnotho Fund. The fund was aimed at offering strategic loans and empowering businesses to secure trading stock, equipment, machinery and working capital. This initiative was promised to business owners in an attempt to foster entrepreneurship and propel economic growth in Gautengs townships. V.5552
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19. Aug. 2024 IOL
Identity fraud rockets in SA
Identity fraud is on the increase in South Africa, with the latest fraud statistics recording a 400% surge in impersonation fraud from April 2023 to April 2024. Fraud statistics from the Southern African Fraud Prevention Service (SAFPS) have also revealed that impersonation fraud increased by a staggering 356% from April 2022 to April 2023. V.5553
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16. Aug. 2024 EWN (EYEWITNESS NEWS )
Father unable to register his son because he is not the mother
For the past eight years, Mqokeleli Sigwintshi has been trying to get a birth certificate from the Department of Home Affairs for his son, who is now nine years old. Sigwintshi said in 2015, his wife, with whom he had a traditional marriage, gave birth to their son at the Willowvale Health Centre. A year later, his wife visited her family in Mthatha. V.5550
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14. Aug. 2024 Reuters
People leave New Zealand in record numbers as economy bites
People are leaving New Zealand in record numbers as unemployment rises, interest rates remain high and economic growth is anaemic, government statistics show. Data released by Statistics New Zealand on Tuesday showed that 131 200 people departed New Zealand in the year ended June 2024, provisionally the highest on record for an annual period. Around a third of these were headed to Australia. While net migration, the number of those arriving minus those leaving, remains at high levels, economists also expect this to wane as the number of foreign nationals wanting to move to New Zealand falls due to the softer economy. The data showed of those departing 80 174 were citizens, which was almost double the numbers seen leaving prior to the Covid-19 pandemic. V.5548
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14. Aug. 2024 SABC3
De Lille calls for concerted efforts for tourism to grow SA economy
Tourism Minister Patricia de Lille has called for concerted efforts to ensure that the potential of the tourism sector to grow the economy is realised. The sector is one of the apex contributors to the economy. The country is seeking to attract 15 million tourists to South Africa by 2030 as the National Development Plan envisages. V.5549
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13. Aug. 2024 Zimoja News
Driven by a desire for a luxurious lifestyle
A Congolese national was sentenced to 12 years for corruption and other crimes. CRIMINAL SYNDICATES Congolese national Tiny Mtumba (36) was sentenced to 12 years and 3 months imprisonment for fraud, theft, and contravention of the Immigration Act by the Palm Ridge Commercial Court in the East Rand in Gauteng on Thursday. V.5547
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08. Aug. 2024 BBC
Government concerned by immigration lawyer `hitlist`
The government says social media platforms `clearly need to do far more` after it emerged a list purporting to contain the names and addresses of immigration lawyers was being spread online. Initially shared on the Telegram messaging app - along with the phrase no more immigration - it has now begun appearing on other platforms. Lawyers have told the BBC they have been advised by police to work from home, board up office windows and install fireproof letterboxes. V.5538
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08. Aug. 2024 IOL
Measures in place to avoid abuse of immigration policies, says Home Affairs Minister
Schreiber was responding to written questions by members of Parliament (MPs) about the temporary visa concession for foreigners, as well as the impact of wealthy foreigners on the rental housing market. CAPE TOWN - Home Affairs Minister Leon Schreiber says there are measures in place to prevent the abuse of immigration policies for foreigners. Schreiber also revealed the Special Investigating Unit (SIU) was probing thousands of visas issued due to the alleged corrupt activities contained in the Lubisi Report, which exposed serious fraud in the department. V.5539
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08. Aug. 2024 Polity
PSA condemns mistreatment of employees during investigations at Department of Home Affairs
MEDIA STATEMENT - The content on this page is not written by Polity.org.za, but is supplied by third parties. This content does not constitute news reporting by Polity.org.za. The Public Servants Association (PSA) has received alarming reports of mistreatment of the Unions members employed at the Department of Home Affairs during recent raids conducted by the Special Investigating Unit, the Hawks, and the former Minister of Home Affairs. V.5540
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08. Aug. 2024 IOL
If you engage in corruption, we will pursue you until you are locked up - Home affairs minister cracks the whip
The Minister of Home Affairs Leon Schreiber warned those who engage in corruption that they would be pursued. He was speaking following the sentencing of home affairs official Judy Zuma who was jailed to 12 years for passport fraud. Zuma was sentenced this week in the Durban Commercial Crime Court after pleading guilty to a string of counts including corruption, fraud, and breaching the Immigration Act and the Identification Act. V.5541
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08. Aug. 2024 IOL
Mossel Bay emerges as South Africas new semigration hotspot
Western Cape coastal towns, particularly along the Garden Route, are experiencing a dire shortage of affordable housing as semigration-driven demand continues to drive up prices, estate agents say. V.5543
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07. Aug. 2024 Groundup
Asylum seekers fear arrest but cant access documents
Lawyers for Human Rights takes this issue to the High Court next month. Lawyers for Human Rights, representing the Scalabrini Centre, is heading to the court next month to apply for an urgent interdict to prevent the arrests of new asylum seekers. Archive Thousands of people coming into South Africa from war-torn countries or countries rife with political unrest, say they live in constant fear of being arrested. This is despite their numerous attempts, some since 2020, to apply for asylum at the Department of Home Affairs, but to no avail. According to leaders of immigrant communities in Diepsloot, they are aware of at least 15 people currently held at the Lindela Repatriation Centre due to their inability to apply for asylum documents. V.5537
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06. Aug. 2024 Reuters
Congolese police officers flee to Uganda as fighting intensifies
KAMPALA, Aug 5 (Reuters) - Nearly 100 police officers from the Democratic Republic of Congo fled to neighbouring Uganda over the weekend as fighting between M23 rebels and the military in Congo`s east intensified, a Ugandan military spokesperson said on Monday. The officers arrived via the Ishasha border crossing in Kanungu district in southwestern Uganda, Major Kiconco Tabaro, a regional spokesperson for the Uganda People`s Defence Forces, said. V.5536
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05. Aug. 2024 Business Day
SA Citizenship Act a matter of identity, inclusion and unity
Chidimma Adetshinas success should be a reason to celebrate SAs diverse heritage The SA Citizenship Act of 1995 outlines the criteria for citizenship, V.5532
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05. Aug. 2024 News24
Global students flock to SA universities for a rich cultural and academic experience
Stellenbosch University is one of the universities in the country favoured by international students. (Stellenbosch University/Facebook) A total of 20 942 students from Africa and abroad are studying at 15 of South Africa`s 26 universities. The University of Johannesburg has 4 148 international students, including 1 614 from Zimbabwe. Deputy Minister of Higher Education Dr Mimmy Gondwe said international students enjoy studying in SA because it`s home to some of the top-ranked universities in the world. V.5533
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05. Aug. 2024 Moneyweb
Anger at huge jump in Zimbabwean passport price
More than 1 100 people have signed a petition calling on the government of Zimbabwe to review a decision to hike the cost of a passport by nearly 50%. On 26 July, the Zimbabwean consulate in Johannesburg announced that the price of a passport would rise from $170 (about R3 100) to $250 (about R4 540). The Ministry of Home Affairs and Cultural Heritage has directed that all e-Passports applications that are processed at the Consulate in Johannesburg, South Africa, shall be handled as express/emergency applications in terms of Statutory Instrument 1 of 2024, the consulate said. V.5534
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05. Aug. 2024 News24
Bangladesh riots: How empowerment job quotas, youth unemployment brought down a government
On Monday, Bangladesh Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina resigned and fled the country, as students targeted her office. Hasina had first insisted protests were the work of opposition parties, then blamed terrorists, and she and her family called on security forces to prevent her ouster. But underlying youth unemployment saw protests about a job-reservation scheme morph into a direct demand for her removal. V.5535
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02. Aug. 2024 Times live
Labour minister Meth appeals to hospitality bosses to comply with laws
Minister of labour and employment Nomakhosazana Meth has appealed to employers in the hospitality sector to comply with labour laws and regulations. Meth was talking on the sidelines of the blitz inspections being conducted by the department on Wednesday in Gauteng restaurants. She oversaw the inspections which were conducted in collaboration with home affairs, police and the Bargaining Council for Hospitality. V.5529
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02. Aug. 2024 The South African
Does being born in SA mean you have South African citizenship?
Being born in South Africa is simply not reason enough to be classified as a South African national with SA citizenship. Many individuals think that by being born in South Africa, a child is automatically entitled to South African citizenship. BEING BORN IN A COUNTRY However, this is not the case. Merely being born in a country does not entitle an individual to nationality of the country concerned. If this was the case, it would be highly likely that people would be travelling to all sorts of places they like to give birth to children so that the child may claim the nationality of those countries. V.5530
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02. Aug. 2024 IOL
Home Affairs official jailed for 35 years for her part in passport scheme
A Home Affairs official has been sentenced to 35 years imprisonment in the Durban Specialised Commercial Crimes Court in KwaZulu-Natal for her involvement in a large-scale fraudulent passport scheme. Judith Salome Zuma was convicted on charges of corruption, fraud, and violations of the Identification Act and the Immigrations Act. V.5531
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01. Aug. 2024 SA people news
Home Affairs finally addresses Chidimma’s citizenship issue
The Department of Home Affairs has clarified the facts regarding the nationality of Miss SA finalist Chidimma Adetshina.The Department of Home Affairs has clarified the confusion regarding Miss SA finalist Chidimma Adetshina, whose nationality had been questioned. Since revealing that her father is Nigerian and her mother is a South African with Mozambican roots, the 23-year-old has been victimized by angry pageant fans who believe she should not win or represent South Africa. V.5522
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01. Aug. 2024 IOL
Why merely being born in SA is not enough to obtain citizenship
Being merely born in South Africa is not enough to determine the citizenship of a child. For a child to obtain citizenship by birth in South Africa, one of the two parents must be a South African citizen, naturalised or permanent resident. This has been clarified by Home Affairs Deputy Minister Njabulo Nzuza, who explained that children born in South Africa - with neither parents being South African - do not automatically acquire South African citizenship. V.5523
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01. Aug. 2024 EWN (EYEWITNESS NEWS )
Measures are in place to prevent abuse of immigration policies for foreigners - Schreiber
Home Affairs Minister Leon Schreiber was responding to written questions by MPs about the temporary visa concession for foreigners as well as the impact of wealthy foreigners on the rental housing market. CAPE TOWN - Home Affairs Minister Leon Schreiber said there were measures in place to prevent the abuse of immigration policies for foreigners. Schreiber also said that the Special Investigation Unit (SIU) was probing thousands of visas issued due to the alleged corrupt activities contained in the Lubisi Report, which exposed serious fraud in the department. V.5524
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01. Aug. 2024 EWN (EYEWITNESS NEWS )
Measures are in place to prevent abuse of immigration policies for foreigners - Schreiber
Home Affairs Minister Leon Schreiber was responding to written questions by MPs about the temporary visa concession for foreigners as well as the impact of wealthy foreigners on the rental housing market. CAPE TOWN - Home Affairs Minister Leon Schreiber said there were measures in place to prevent the abuse of immigration policies for foreigners. Schreiber also said that the Special Investigation Unit (SIU) was probing thousands of visas issued due to the alleged corrupt activities contained in the Lubisi Report, which exposed serious fraud in the department. V.5525
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01. Aug. 2024 Times live
Home affairs cancels visas of 95 Libyans arrested at suspected military training base in Mpumalanga
According to the department, the visas were acquired through misrepresentation in Tunis, Tunisia. When a team led by SAPS detectives arrived at the farm they found the Libyans housed in military tents. The department of home affairs has cancelled the irregularly acquired visas of 95 Libyans arrested after police uncovered a suspected military training base in White River in Mpumalanga, minister Dr Leon Schreiber confirmed. V.5526
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01. Aug. 2024 Businesstech
Speeding lifeline for drivers in South Africa
Insured South Africans can see a motor vehicle claim paid out, even if they were known to be speeding. In a case before the Ombudsman for Short-term Insurance, the insured submitted a claim for vehicle damage after they collided with a cow. The insurer rejected the claim on the basis that the insured failed to apply reasonable care and precaution to prevent the incident. In the complaint, the insured did not dispute the speed at which he travelled, stating that he was not aware of the speed limit applicable to the road. The insured added that the speed was irrelevant as he could not see the due to a third-party vehicle travelling in the opposite direction, blinding his vision with its lights - meaning he could not see the cow. V.5527
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01. Aug. 2024 SA People
New Zimbabwean consulate opens up in Johannesburg
The new consulate in Johannesburg will issue passports, e-passports, and birth certificates for Zimbabweans residing in the country. Zimbabweans living in South Africa now have a new consulate. Image: canva Zimbabwean consulate pops up A new Zimbabwean consulate opened its door on Thursday, 25 July, and will be the place for Zimbabweans living in South Africa to apply for passports, including e-passports, and birth certificates. According to IOL, Zimbabwe’s Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Trade, Frederick Makamure Shava said that the new consulate would enable Zimbabweans residing in South Africa to acquire proper documentation. V.5528
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31. Jul. 2024 The South African
South Africa to lose unrestricted entry to another country
Nationals from South Africa will have one less country allowing unrestricted entry to SA passport holders from next year. Passport holders from South Africa are set to face more entry restrictions. Image by Tyler Leigh Vivier/Pexels Passport holders from South Africa are set to face more entry restrictions. SA passport holders will no longer have unrestricted entry to Israel from 1 January 2025. INCREASED ENTRY RESTRICTIONS South African passport holders will indeed have to obtain a pre-approved travel authorisation before travelling to the state of Israel. V.5517
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31. Jul. 2024 LOL
Chaos as R380 million biometric airport system flops
A controversial R380 million biometric system at airports across the country is causing chaos, delays and frustration amongst passengers and airport staff. `This system is not working. It keeps crashing and passengers are missing flights as they wait in long queues to get through our immigration check point. When we tried to raise this, we are told by the commander-in-chief that he doesn`t want to lose his job because this system cost millions. So we have to look at passengers who think we are incompetent and don’t know how to use the system,` an immigration worker at one of the airports told IOL. V.5518
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31. Jul. 2024 Businesstech
These countries are poaching South Africans for jobs - paying up to R2.3 million
The global north - including Canada, Germany, the UK, and the UAE - is poaching talented South Africans to fill their skills deficit, and young South Africans are taking them up on their offers. Several immigration experts and surveys have shown that the global demand for skilled South Africans is growing, especially for critical skills such as doctors, nurses, teachers, engineers, and IT professionals. Combining this demand with South Africa’s poor economic growth, high unemployment, stagnant salary growth, and political uncertainty, you have a situation where young, talented South Africans are leaving. While South Africa’s economy stagnates, other countries’ economies continue to grow, including their populations; these countries include Canada, Germany, the United Kingdom, and even the United Arab Emirates (UAE). V.5519
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31. Jul. 2024 foodformzantsi.co.za
Lesotho’s food crisis threatens SA’s border security
Francois Wilken, president of Free State Agriculture FSA, has highlighted concerns about the potential effects of Lesotho’s food security crisis on South Africa. Wilken’s comments follow the declaration of a national disaster by Lesotho’s prime minister, Sam Matekane, due to drought conditions caused by El Niño. It is reported that around 700 000 citizens of Lesotho require humanitarian assistance, with an estimated R2.1 billion needed to address the crisis. “We acknowledge the severity of the situation and extend our sympathy to those affected by hunger. We support a structured humanitarian response to procure and distribute food in an organised manner,” says Wilken. V.5520
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31. Jul. 2024 Business Tech
Your bank account isn’t safe from SARS
The South African Revenue Service (SARS) can take money directly from one’s bank account, often catching taxpayers by surprise. With tax season officially opening in South Africa on 15 July 2024, provisional taxpayers who did not agree with their auto-assessments have until 21 October to file their taxes. Taxpayers must submit a tax return to SARS so that the revenue service can calculate their tax liability based on the income they declare and the tax-deductible expenses they have incurred for a year of assessment . V.5521
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24. Jul. 2024 Moneyweb
Home Affairs working at speed to reduce queues and visa backlog
‘We started out with over 306 000 applications in this backlog, and I’m happy to report that we’ve cracked 100 000 now, we’ve cleared more than 30% of that,’ says Minister of Home Affairs, Leon Schreiber. JEREMY MAGGS: The new Home Affairs Minister, Leon Schreiber, has laid out his priorities saying his department is going to prioritise, among other things, dealing with the massive visa backlog, as well as stabilising the department’s online system. He joins me now and, Minister, first of all then can you provide more details on what specific measures are being taken to address this visa mess? V.5514
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24. Jul. 2024 Business Standard
778 Indian students return home from Bangladesh amid ongoing violence
Bangladesh is reeling under deadly clashes, with protesting students demanding that the Sheikh Hasina-led government scrap the controversial job-quota system More than 50 people have been killed in the clashes that broke out weeks ago. A total of 778 Indian students have returned to India from Bangladesh through various land transit points, the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) said on Saturday as the neighbouring country continued to reel under deadly clashes over a controversial job-quota system. Indian missions in Bangladesh are in regular touch with the authorities concerned to ensure the safety and security of Indian nationals and students, the MEA said. `Thus far, 778 Indian students have returned to India through various land ports. In addition, around 200 students have returned home by regular flight services through Dhaka and Chittagong airports,` the ministry said. V.5515
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24. Jul. 2024 IOL
South African woman fights for right to join her two lovers in the UK
A South African woman is fighting for her rights to join her two lovers who are currently in the UK. Simone Carmen Johnson is part of a polyamorous relationship with two other people.On February 5, Johnson applied for an Unmarried Partner Visa and her application was declined on June 26, citing eligibility relationship requirements under UK immigration rules. V.5516
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23. Jul. 2024 The Citizen
Staff in the dark over Home Affairs inspections
The Bargaining Council for Restaurants, Catering and Allied Trades had not been informed by the department about planned inspections.Home Affairs Minister Leon Schreiber said he would be intensifying inspections to identify undocumented foreign nationals in some sectors including the food, mining and farming industries. However, officials say they have not even been informed of when these inspections will start. V.5509
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23. Jul. 2024 The Citizen
Schreiber forges ahead with initiative to deport undocumented foreigners
Home Affairs Minister Leon Schreiber plans to boost inspections by 50%, deporting those employed illegally.Home affairs Minister Leon Schreiber says in the coming year, his department will intensify inspections at restaurants, spaza shops, farms and mines by over 50% and take action - including deportations - against people illegally employed. The initiative was started under his predecessor, Aaron Motsoaledi, who earlier this year called for harsher sanctions against business owners who knowingly employ undocumented foreigners. V.5510
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23. Jul. 2024 The Witness
Opinion | Home Affairs
I’m not sure what exactly caused this enormous backlog at the Department of Home Affairs. Only one day in office and the new Minister for Home Affairs, Leon Schreiber, has made an impact. In his first official act he extended the temporary concession for foreign nationals who are currently awaiting the outcome of visa, waiver and appeal applications, until December 31, 2024. Finally, some relief for around 145 000 applicants, many married to South Africans, who have been living in limbo and in constant fear of being declared an ‘undesirable.’ I’m not sure what exactly caused this enormous backlog at the Department of Home Affairs. Clearly, something big went wrong. It is important to acknowledge that there are many extremely hardworking and kind Home Affairs officials. V.5512
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23. Jul. 2024 The Citizen
‘Disregard for human rights’ - Frozen IDs still not unblocked by home affairs
South Africa`s Home Affairs fails court order, leaving 700,000 IDs blocked amid fraud suspicions unresolved. The department of home affairs (DHA) has failed to implement a court ruling instructing it to release some of the identity documents (ID) that were blocked on suspicions of fraud. In January, a judgment was handed down by the high court stating home affairs blocking more than 700 000 IDs was unlawful as the department had not followed proper procedure. Lawyers for Human Rights (LHR), which represented more than 100 people, claimed none of its clients’ IDs had been unblocked in the stipulated 90 days. V.5513
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22. Jul. 2024 Cape Argus
Home Affairs minister visits refugee office in Cape Town as part of the department`s oversight tour
Home Affairs Minister Leon Schreiber on an oversight visit to the Cape Town Refugee Reception Office in Epping. Cape Town - Asylum seekers and refugees in Cape Town have expressed their frustration at long waiting periods at offices, saying they were hopeful the new ministry would improve this. Home Affairs Minister Leon Schreiber visited the Cape Town Refugee Reception Office in Epping yesterday, where he got a first-hand look at the procedures that asylum seekers must follow. V.5502
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22. Jul. 2024 Bloomberg
South Africa Wants to Fix ‘Hostile’ Skilled Worker Visa Regime
• Leon Schreiber plans to put in place points-based system • Minister says he will also act to resolve nomad visa confusion South Africa must fix a dysfunctional work permit system or sacrifice economic growth, the country’s new Home Affairs minister said, pledging to resolve a crisis that employers say limits investment. A byzantine application process that can extend beyond a year has contributed to a backlog of hundreds of thousands of applications, while miring his department in lawsuits from people demanding rulings on their submissions. V.5503
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22. Jul. 2024 Central News
Home Affairs Set to Drive Economic Growth Through Operation Vulindlela
Work is underway to position the Department of Home Affairs (DHA) as a powerful engine for economic growth. Minister of Home Affairs, Dr Leon Schreiber, has emphasised the department’s crucial role in achieving rapid, inclusive, and sustainable economic growth, a priority set by the Government of National Unity. Presenting the DHA’s Budget Vote in Parliament on Monday, Schreiber highlighted the importance of accelerating the reforms introduced by President Cyril Ramaphosa through Operation Vulindlela. This government-driven initiative aims to speed up the implementation of structural reforms in key sectors to foster inclusive economic growth. V.5504
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22. Jul. 2024 News Hub Creator
Adults & kids were immediately deported as SAPS arrested 208 undocumented persons in Limpopo
Mass Arrest and Deportation: SAPS Targets Illegal Activities in Limpopo. In a large-scale operation conducted by the South African Police Service (SAPS) in Limpopo province, 208 undocumented individuals were apprehended, and suspected stolen property was recovered.The operation, which targeted the Marble Hall and Groblersdall policing areas in the Sekhukhune District, began on the evening of Thursday, July 19, 2024, and continued until 11:00 the following day. The primary goal of this extensive operation was to address illegal activities in the Leeuwfontein area and surrounding farms. The results of the operation were significant, with the arrests breaking down as follows: -176 Zimbabwean nationals -28 Mozambican nationals -4 Indian nationals V.5505
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22. Jul. 2024 News Hub Creator
Adults & kids were immediately deported as SAPS arrested 208 undocumented persons in Limpopo
Mass Arrest and Deportation: SAPS Targets Illegal Activities in Limpopo. In a large-scale operation conducted by the South African Police Service (SAPS) in Limpopo province, 208 undocumented individuals were apprehended, and suspected stolen property was recovered.The operation, which targeted the Marble Hall and Groblersdall policing areas in the Sekhukhune District, began on the evening of Thursday, July 19, 2024, and continued until 11:00 the following day. The primary goal of this extensive operation was to address illegal activities in the Leeuwfontein area and surrounding farms. The results of the operation were significant, with the arrests breaking down as follows: -176 Zimbabwean nationals -28 Mozambican nationals -4 Indian nationals V.5507
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19. Jul. 2024 Daily Maverick
Putting people first’ - SA tourism body hails De Lille’s reappointment as minister in the GNU
Veteran politician Patricia de Lille was officially sworn into office as tourism minister on Wednesday. As the former lone opposition government member in the sixth administration, she now enters a Government of National Unity. Good party leader Patricia de Lille says that after working with the African National Congress (ANC) and the Democratic Alliance (DA) for almost 15 years, she knows that “the best of all of us, whether you are ANC, DA or Good … put our people first”. De Lille was speaking shortly before being sworn in as tourism minister on Wednesday at the Cape Town International Convention Centre. V.5499
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19. Jul. 2024 De Rebus
Protecting refugees: Non-refoulement principle and the Scalabrini Centre of Cape Town case
Section 22(12) and (13) of the Refugees Act 130 of 1998 were presented by the Refugees Amendment Act 11 of 2017, which came into force on 1 January 2020 (J Cassette, E Roos and AB Karjieker ‘Automatic abandonment of asylum application: An analysis of the Scalabrini Centre of Cape Town v Minister of Home Affairs judgment’ (www.cliffedekkerhofmeyr.com, accessed 5-5-2024)). Section 22(12) and (13), Regulation 9 and Form 3 of the Refugees Regulations provide that asylum seekers who fail to (personally) renew their asylum visa within the period of 30 days on expiry of their asylum are considered to have abandoned their asylum application (Cassette et al (op cit)). V.5500
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19. Jul. 2024 Bloomberg
South Africa must fix a dysfunctional work permit system
South Africa must fix a dysfunctional work permit system or sacrifice economic growth, the country’s new Home Affairs minister said, pledging to resolve a crisis that employers say limits investment. A byzantine application process that can extend beyond a year has contributed to a backlog of hundreds of thousands of applications while miring his department in lawsuits from people demanding rulings on their submissions. That’s been accompanied by a national debate where foreigners are routinely accused of stealing South African jobs, in a country with an unemployment rate of more than 30%. V.5501
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18. Jul. 2024 Businesstech
Foreigners are loving life in South Africa but they still have one big worry
Expats’ happiness with their lives in South Africa has improved considerably over the past year, but they still face several pressing issues, particularly those related to safety. This is according to the latest Expat Insider 2024 survey by InterNations, where South Africa ranks 29th out of 53 countries in the overall rankings of “Best Destinations for Expats in 2024.” This is a 19-spot improvement from 2023, climbing out of the bottom 10 after spending four consecutive years there. “In early 2024, more than 12,500 expats from around the world shared with us their thoughts on what it’s like to live and work abroad [representing] 175 nationalities living in 174 countries or territories,” said InterNations. V.5496
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18. Jul. 2024 My Broadband
New smart ID cards and passports for South Africa
Newly appointed Home Affairs Minister Dr Leon Schreiber has announced that South Africa’s Smart ID cards and passports will be updated with enhanced security features in the coming years. Schreiber announced the development in the Department of Home Affairs’ 2024/2025 budget vote speech on Monday. “Both the passport and smart ID card will be refreshed and updated in order to enhance the security features of these documents, with the aim of building trust by more countries and organisations worldwide,” said Schreiber. While Schreiber did not provide a specific date for the changes, he said the documents would be updated “during the current administration”. Barring an unprecedented early election, the current administration is set to serve until the next general elections in 2029. V.5497
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18. Jul. 2024 News24
Asylum seekers fear arrest but can`t access documents
Thousands of people coming into South Africa from war-torn countries or countries rife with political unrest say they live in constant fear of being arrested.This is despite their numerous attempts, some since 2020, to apply for asylum at the Department of Home Affairs. Leaders of immigrant communities in Diepsloot, Gauteng, say they are aware of at least 15 people currently being held at the Lindela Repatriation Centre due to their inability to apply for asylum documents. An Ethiopian man who has been living and working in Diepsloot, Gauteng, for nearly four years says he fears being arrested each time he walks out of his home because he has been struggling for years to get legal asylum documents, GroundUp reports. V.5498
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17. Jul. 2024 Businesstech
South Africa’s massive visa backlog hits over 200,000
South Africa’s new minister of Home Affairs, Leon Schreiber, says that the department is making headway in reducing its massive visa backlog, which has been cut to around 213,000 applications. Schreiber, who took over as minister as part of the Government of National Unity in June, said that the department has set up a dedicated team to reduce the backlog and has cut through 92,886 applications out of a total of 306,042. “This is a reduction of 30%. But we must do more because clearing this backlog is the only way to avoid another extension of the concession on visas, waivers and appeals that have already been granted three times,” he said. V.5493
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17. Jul. 2024 Daily Mavrick
Five key takeaways from Home Affairs Minister Leon Schreiber’s maiden budget vote speech
Leon Schreiber laid out his priorities as Minister of Home Affairs during his maiden budget vote speech in Parliament on Monday, saying his department would prioritise, among other things, dealing with the visa backlog and stabilising the department’s online system. The Department of Home Affairs has a budget of R10.49-billion for the 2024/25 financial year - a slight increase from R9.75-billion in the previous financial year. Schreiber’s speech covered five key issues. Visa backlog Schreiber said the department had assigned a “dedicated team” to deal with the permit backlog. V.5495
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16. Jul. 2024 The Citizen
Home Affairs to intensify inspections at restaurants, farms for illegal employment
Schreiber said he would reach out to the departments, including the South African Police Service (Saps), for joint operations. Leon Schreiber, minister of Home Affairs, during the swearing-in ceremony of the new national executive members at Cape Town International Convention Centre on 3 July, 2024 in Cape Town. Home Affairs Leon Schreiber says in the coming year, the department will intensify inspections at restaurants, spaza shops, farms and mines by over 50% to take action, including deportations, against people who are illegally employed. V.5491
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16. Jul. 2024 The Citizen
Home Affairs to intensify inspections at restaurants, farms for illegal employment
Schreiber said he would reach out to the departments, including the South African Police Service (Saps), for joint operations. Leon Schreiber, minister of Home Affairs, during the swearing-in ceremony of the new national executive members at Cape Town International Convention Centre on 3 July, 2024 in Cape Town. Home Affairs Leon Schreiber says in the coming year, the department will intensify inspections at restaurants, spaza shops, farms and mines by over 50% to take action, including deportations, against people who are illegally employed. V.5492
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15. Jul. 2024 The Pie News
Australia’s Home Affairs pledges reforms after agent failures
Australia’s Home Affairs has pledged to improve oversight and timeliness in regulating migration agents by June 2025, after an audit exposed major flaws. The Department for Home Affairs expects that all ANAO recommendations will be implemented by 30 June 2025. The Australian National Audit Office released a report in May, in which it raised serious concerns regarding the processes of the Office of the Migration Agents Registration Authority - an office within the Department of Home Affairs. The report found the department’s regulation of migration agents to be ineffective, stating that “appropriate arrangements are not in place to support the regulation of migration agents” and that migration agents in Australia are not currently “effectively regulated”. V.5485
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15. Jul. 2024 News 24
Visa extension for foreign workers raises ire of home affairs committee worried about `capacity`
• The Portfolio Committee on Home Affairs is not entirely happy with newly appointed Home Affairs Minister Leon Schreiber`s decision to extend the temporary concession for foreign nationals awaiting their visas. • Several MPs serving on the committee raised concerns about capacity to ensure that undocumented individuals are deported. • The committee also wants home affairs officials to join operations targeting spaza shops engaged in illicit activities more frequently. Extending the visas of foreign nationals already in South Africa shifts focus and resources away from the needs of citizens. This is according to the Portfolio Committee on Home Affairs after newly appointed Home Affairs Minister Leon Schreiber`s decision to extend the temporary concession for foreign nationals who are currently awaiting the outcome of visa, waiver and appeal applications. V.5486
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15. Jul. 2024 Cape Town Today
A Paradigm Shift in South Africa’s Passport Influence: An In-depth Analysis of its Worldwide Reach
passport holders can travel without visas to 35 African nations, 18 countries in the Americas, 17 in Asia, 16 in the Caribbean, 3 in Europe, 8 in the Middle East and 10 in Oceania. However, recent changes to visa regulations, such as Ireland’s adjustment, have reduced their global influence. South Africans should stay informed about evolving visa regulations to make the most of their passport’s opportunities. What visa-free travel destinations are available for South African passport holders? South Africans can travel without a visa to 35 African nations, 18 countries in the Americas, 17 in Asia, 16 in the Caribbean, 3 in Europe, 8 in the Middle East and 10 in Oceania. However, recent changes to visa regulations for South Africans, such as Ireland’s adjustment, have reduced their global influence. It is important for South Africans to stay informed about evolving visa regulations. V.5487
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15. Jul. 2024 News 24
Fixing Home Affairs will be a mountain to climb
One day after he was sworn in as the new Minister of Home Affairs, Dr Leon Schreiber made a range of announcements regarding extending temporary visa concessions and other arrangements affecting legal foreign nationals in South Africa. It drew attention to him as one of the six new ministers of the DA in the Government of National Unity (GNU). Eleven new ministers were appointed from the DA, PAC, IFP, Patriotic Alliance (PA) and Freedom Front Plus and two from the ANC in the GNU. V.5488
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15. Jul. 2024 Business Tech
The booming R7 billion industry in South Africa
South Africa’s ride-hailing market has grown considerably over the past several years, becoming a massive R7 billion industry with no signs of slowing down. Vincent Lilane, Business Development Representative at inDrive, highlights that approximately 21% of South Africans now rely on e-hailing services, marking a substantial shift in urban transportation dynamics. Despite this growth, the sector faces several critical challenges that could impede further development if left unaddressed. V.5490
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12. Jul. 2024 Radio567
Fixing Home Affairs: Every SAn understands the scale of the problem - Schreiber
The DA`s Leon Schreiber is the Home Affairs Minister-designate. He discusses his priorities with John Maytham. Is a more competent Home Affairs department on the horizon? President Cyril Ramaphosa’s newly announced Cabinet has had to accommodate ministers and deputy ministers from six former opposition parties. The post of Home Affairs Minister has gone to Leon Schreiber from the Democratic Alliance, who takes over from the ANC`s Aaron Motsoaledi who returns in the guise of Health Minister. V.5478
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12. Jul. 2024 News 24
Busted! Children found inside trailer after Paarl police intercept bus with undocumented passengers
Police conducting an early morning patrol intercepted a bus carrying undocumented passengers • Police found undocumented women and children inside a trailer attached to the bus. • A passenger then intervened and offered one of the police officers R50 000 to release the passengers. • Home Affairs Minister, Leon Schreiber announced last week that foreign tourists, students and visitors who have applied for visa extensions will be allowed to stay in the country until the end of this year . V.5479
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12. Jul. 2024 News24
EXPLAINER | Short-term work visa vs SA`s new remote work visa: what`s the difference?
The remote work visa allows individuals employed by foreign companies to work remotely in South Africa, and is similar to the nomad visas now popular in many countries across the globe, explains Aadil Wadee. A significant change introduced by the newly gazetted regulations on 20 May 2024, was the implementation of the remote work visa in South Africa. V.5483
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12. Jul. 2024 Daily Maverick
After the Bell: Ireland’s not being a good sport about its visa push
Irish eyes might be smiling, but South Africans are rightly rankled by Ireland’s new visa requirements, imposed on Monday with a tiny bone thrown our way by way of a ‘grace period’ that is probably of use to only a minuscule cohort of travellers. V.5484
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11. Jul. 2024 The Star
Calls for home affairs minister to reverse visa extension continue to grow
Amid an increasing calls for new Minister of Home Affairs Leon Schreiber to reverse his decision to extend the deadline for visa applications, ActionSA has called for the minister to prioritise jobs for South Africans. Last week, a day after being sworn in, Schreiber extended the temporary concession for foreign nationals who are awaiting the outcome of visa, waiver and appeal applications. The extension safeguards applicants, including those who are contributing to South Africa through their scarce skills, from suffering adverse consequences or being erroneously declared undesirable while they await the outcome of applications submitted to the department. V.5473
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11. Jul. 2024 Pretoria News
Home Affairs told to unblock man’s ID after three years
A Man who was more than three years ago suddenly stripped of his South African citizenship by Home Affairs, and who had in the meantime lost his job as a result, turned to the court for a final interdict to force the department to unblock his ID document. The applicant, only identified as FS, told the Gauteng High Court, Pretoria, of the hardships he has encountered after home affairs simply took away his citizenship in April 2021, based on unverified claims that he is actually a Zimbabwe national. He said his life has been a nightmare since, as he cannot travel, he is now unemployed and he cannot even receive a social grant. V.5475
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11. Jul. 2024 New Zimbabwe
Clarity on Zimbabwe exemption permits deadline in South Africa; new Home Affairs minister gets flake for ‘soft’ stance
THE National Employers’ Association of South Africa (NEASA) on Thursday provided clarity for all affected parties on the relevant deadlines and periods of validity of the the Zimbabwean exemption permits (ZEP) dispensation. There are more than a million Zimbabweans living in South Africa, according to South Africa’s census data. It said for the current holders of the original ZEPs, the deadline has been extended and was valid until November 29, 2024. V.5476
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11. Jul. 2024 EWN (EYEWITNESS NEWS )
Home Affairs reports over 300,000 cases of fraudulent visas and permits
The Home Affairs Department is now preparing to hand over at least 94 individuals for investigation by the Hawks, on top of 28 others already handed over to the Directorate for Priority Crime Investigations. CAPE TOWN - The Home Affairs Department says it has identified more than 300,000 cases related to the fraudulent issuing of visas and permits. It is now preparing to hand over at least 94 individuals for investigation by the Hawks, on top of 28 others already handed over to the Directorate for Priority Crime Investigations. V.5477
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10. Jul. 2024 News24
Cape Town, OR Tambo airports ranked in world`s top 10 - beating Japan, US
Cape Town International Airport has been ranked second-best worldwide, according to a new survey from passenger claims company Airhelp. The survey, which takes into account customers` opinions on an airport`s on-time performance, customer service delivery, and food and shops, ranked 239 airports from 69 countries. V.5469
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10. Jul. 2024 Business Day
South Africans no longer allowed into Ireland without a visa
SA and Botswana nationals are required to obtain a visa before travelling to Ireland, effective from Wednesday. A transit visa will also be required if intending to transit through Ireland en route to another destination. V.5470
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10. Jul. 2024 IOL
ActionSA’s Herman Mashaba urges Home Affairs unit to combat illegal immigration
ActionSA leader Herman Mashaba has advocated for the newly sworn-in Minister of Home Affairs, Leon Schreiber to establish a special unit within his department to handle illegal immigrant issues. Last week, Schreiber extended the temporary concession for foreigners waiting for visa, waiver and appeal outcomes. According to Schreiber, the extension seeks to protect applicants, especially those contributing scarce skills in South Africa from facing negative outcomes of being mistakenly labelled undesirable while they wait for their application outcomes from the department. V.5471
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09. Jul. 2024 SA People
Cape Town confirmed as top filming destination
The City of Cape Town revealed a rise in filming permit applications for 2023/24, only confirming that Cape Town is a prime filming location. Cape Town is a top spot for filming. More filming permits for Cape Town Between 1 July 2023 and 30 June 2024, the City of Cape Town’s Film Permit Office issued 4 757 film permits, a massive 22% increase from the 3 910 permits issued the previous year. This is per the City of Cape Town, who revealed that the permits were lodged for feature films, commercials, TV series, stills photography, documentary films, short films, student projects and music videos. V.5466
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09. Jul. 2024 SUNDAY WORLD
New Home Affairs minister’s foreign scarce skills retention plan
Newly appointed Home Affairs minister has unveiled plans to retain scarce skills. Just a day after being sworn in, the new Minister of Home Affairs, Dr Leon Schreiber, has extended the temporary concession for foreign nationals who are currently awaiting the outcome of visa, waiver and appeal applications. The extension safeguards applicants, including those who are contributing to South Africa through their scarce skills, from suffering adverse consequences or being erroneously declared undesirable while they await the outcome of applications submitted to the department. V.5467
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08. Jul. 2024 The Guardian
International students left feeling like ‘cash cows’ after Albanese government raises visa fees
Surprise increase makes Australian visa application fee among most expensive in the world, as new survey finds rising costs putting prospective students off International students say the Australian government is making them feel like “cash cows” and sending a clear message they are unwelcome after home affairs more than doubled the price of visa applications overnight. The non-refundable visa fee rose from $710 to $1,600 without prior warning on Monday, making it one of the most expensive in the world and well in excess of competitors New Zealand (A$343), Canada (A$164), the UK (A$932) and the US (A$277). V.5461
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08. Jul. 2024 Business Tech
Foreigners are flocking to retire in South Africa - here’s why and where they’re coming from
Thousands of foreign nationals have chosen South Africa as their retirement destination, with many of them leaving some notable first-world countries such as the United Kingdom, China, Germany, and the United States of America. In a parliamentary Q&A last year, the former Minister of Home Affairs, Aaron Motsoaledi, was asked to provide the total number of retirement visa applications received and approved, as well as the countries from which these applicants came. In his response, Motsoaledi revealed that over the past two years, South Africa had received approximately 3,645 retirement visa applications from foreigners residing in 112 countries. V.5462
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08. Jul. 2024 The Citizen
‘It’s not clear-cut’: New Home Affairs minister explains his approach to ZEPs
Schreiber says SA must differentiate between ZEP holders who have contributed their skills to the country and those who have undermined the system. Newly appointed Home Affairs Minister Leon Schreiber says he needs time to review the processes and “missteps” in how the Zimbabwean Exemption Permits (ZEPs) were handled. This comes after the Constitutional Court (ConCourt) ruled that former Home Affairs minister Aaron Motsoaledi unlawfully terminated the ZEP. The ZEP has allowed Zimbabweans to live, work and study in South Africa since 2009. This has been part of the Dispensation of Zimbabweans Project. V.5463
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08. Jul. 2024 N Business
VFS Global CEO interview: the man seeking to simplify the visa process
When thinking of soaring demand for international travel, we visualise selfie stick-wielding visitors bustling through crowded markets and snaking queues of excited and weary travellers at airport counters. A record five billion people are expected to take to the skies this year, according to the International Air Travel Association, up from an estimated 4.49 billion in 2023. For some associated sectors of the industry, the impact of this boom is felt early on, before travellers begin the actual journey, as the queues are getting longer at visa processing centres amid the growing hunger for leisure, business and migration travel. V.5464
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05. Jul. 2024 TIMESOFINDIA
Change in visa rules in Australia - how will it impact Indians
Synopsis Starting July 1, 2024, changes to Australian student visa rules require offshore applications. Temporary Graduate visa holders must explore job opportunities for extended stay. Post-study work rights are shorter with stricter English Effective July 1, 2024, individuals applying for an Australian student visa must begin their application process from outside the country, rather than within Australia. This change affects holders of specific visas, such as Visitor and Temporary Graduate visas, who will no longer be allowed to apply for student visas while in Australia. V.5456
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05. Jul. 2024 Savemytaxes
700,000 IDs Are Still Blocked by Home Affairs in South Africa: Are You One of Them? Check Here
700,000 IDs Are Still Blocked by Home Affairs in South Africa: Are You One of Them? Check Here: In a landmark ruling that could potentially alter the lives of hundreds of thousands, the Gauteng High Court in Pretoria has declared the Department of Home Affairs’ (DHA) practice of blocking South African IDs as unconstitutional. 700,000 IDs Are Still Blocked by Home Affair This judgment comes as a significant relief to many who have found themselves in a state of bureaucratic limbo, unable to access essential V.5457
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05. Jul. 2024 Times Travel
New Zealand tightens visa rules for foreign workers and families; key details here
Synopsis The key change is that individuals holding an Accredited Employer Work Visa (AEWV) at ANZSCO skill levels 4 and 5, without a clear pathway to residency, can no longer sponsor their partners and dependent children for work, visitor On June 26, 2024, New Zealand implemented changes to its visa regulations that will impact certain foreign workers and their families. The new rules aim to streamline the visa application process and align it more closely with the country`s economic and immigration priorities. V.5458
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05. Jul. 2024 IOL
SA is encouraged by the new Home Affairs Minister`s focus on remote working visas
South Africa`s new Home Affairs Minister, Dr Leon Schreiber’s focus on remote working visas has been met with widespread enthusiasm. He aims to attract digital nomads and remote workers from around the globe, positioning South Africa as a prime destination for professionals seeking a balance of work and leisure. The Home Affairs Minister has expressed his commitment to making South Africa a more accessible and appealing location for remote workers. V.5459
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05. Jul. 2024 BusinessTech
When South Africa will turn the corner
Bank of America (BofA) has welcomed Finance Minister Enoch Godongwana’s reappointment, believing that South Africa’s GDP could start improving in the next few years and “turn the corner” in 2026 amid an enhanced performance from Eskom. Following the 2024 election, President Cyril Ramaphosa announced a Government of National Unity (GNU) as the ANC lost its majority in parliament. Ten other parties have joined the GNU: DA, IFP, Good, PA, FF Plus, UDM, Rise Mzansi, PAC, Al-Jama Ah, and UAT. Thus, the president included several of these parties in his cabinet, which increased from 30 to 32 to accommodate the new faces. V.5460
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03. Jul. 2024 My Broadband
Most valuable tech skills in South Africa
The Department of Home Affairs’ (DHA) critical skills list shows that several technology-related jobs are in high demand in South Africa. The list highlights the professions that qualify for South African critical skills work visas, making it a crucial resource for local businesses. Such visas are only issued to individuals with skills or qualifications deemed critical for the country. Former minister Aaron Motsoaledi recently announced changes to South Africa’s work visa system, including the critical skills list. President Cyril Ramaphosa mentioned the reforms during his 2023 State of the Nation Addresses. V.5453
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03. Jul. 2024 Bloomberg
Foreign investors pumping billions into South Africa
The prospect of a business-friendly South African government has drawn foreign investors back to the country’s stock market, with inflows reaching levels last seen more than two years ago. Non-residents have been net buyers of R7.5 billion of South African equities in the 10 trading sessions through Friday, according to JSE data compiled by Bloomberg. That’s a 10-day daily average of R936 million rand, the highest since March 2022. President Cyril Ramaphosa unveiled a new cabinet on Sunday that he said would prioritize rapid and sustainable economic growth. V.5454
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02. Jul. 2024 SA Migration
Travel Advisory - Flying on VFS Receipt you will be banned - Concession expired
Travel Advisory - Flying on VFS Receipt you will be banned - Concession expired All travellers with long stay visa pending applications with VFS receipts including short term receipts will be declared undesirable on exit, they had a meeting this morning and ports of entry were informed in terms of Directive December 2023 wherein the blanket waiver enabling long-term visa and waiver applicants to remain in South Africa and exit without being banned, expired on 30 June 2024 . Visa expired - 31 plus days ago - declared undesirable for 5 year and banned from returning to SA V.5449
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02. Jul. 2024 IOL
A renewed hope for SA`s Home Affairs Department
This collaborative spirit is necessary as we work towards a Home Affairs Department that embodies transparency, efficiency, and integrity, the writer says. As South Africa stands on the cusp of a transformative period under the stewardship of Home Affairs newly appointed Minister Leon Schreiber and the new Government of National Unity, there is a collective sense of optimism and opportunity for real change. Stefanie de Saude Darbandi says , I am eager to highlight the possibilities and challenges ahead. In celebrating the principles of unity embraced by the African National Congress and the new Government of National Unity, we recognize the importance of putting national interests above partisan divides. This collaborative spirit is necessary as we work towards a Home Affairs Department that embodies transparency, efficiency, and integrity. V.5450
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02. Jul. 2024 Schengen News
Who Needs a Schengen Visa to Travel to Europe in 2024?
Schengen Area, which consists of 29 countries, represents the largest borderless zone in the world that permits unrestricted movement of people from one country to another. - Advertisement - However, not everyone is as lucky as just packing their luggage and travelling to Europe without worrying about the Schengen visa application process. A Schengen visa is a travel permit that allows all its holders to enter and stay in the Schengen Area/European Union for short stays of up to 90 days within any 180-day period. V.5451
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02. Jul. 2024 Moneyweb
GNU: ‘The time for talk is over’
New cabinet must harness goodwill and drive decisive action for SA’s economic revival, says It was a long time in the making, but last night’s announcement of a final agreement for a Government of National Unity and the cabinet sets us on a new course. We are finally at the starting line of the new administration, but its success will depend on the deals done over the last month. The agreements set the foundation. The firmer they are, with all sides understanding exactly their roles and responsibilities, the more stable and effective we can expect this coalition government to be. For that reason, I hope our patience will be rewarded. V.5452
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01. Jul. 2024 My Broadband
The truth about Airbnb hurting South African tourism
While much has been made about the impact of Airbnb on South Africa’s traditional accommodation sector, the biggest thing holding back local tourism is the struggles overseas visitors face to get a visa to visit the country. That is according to Federated Hospitality Association of South Africa (FEDHASA), recognised by the government as the main representative of the hospitality industry. FEDHASA previously called for urgent regulation of short-term rental platforms like Airbnb in 2017. It called on the government to ensure that these platforms met the same operational requirements as traditional accommodation operators and that they ensured the safety of their users. The Department of Tourism subsequently revealed its intention to regulate Airbnb and other home-sharing apps in April 2019 through the Tourism Amendment Bill. V.5445
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01. Jul. 2024 SA People
Where does the South African passport rank in the world? The latest Henley & Partners Passport Index for 2024 lists the 108 countries that SA passport holders can travel to without needing a visa.
Here`s where SA ranks according to the Henley & Partners passport index. Image: canva The latest Henley & Partners Passport Index for 2024 lists the 108 countries that South African passport holders can travel to without requiring a visa. The index includes 199 different passports and 227 different travel destinations, ranking them in terms of travel power. Each passport was scored on the total number of destinations that the holder can access visa-free. South Africa placed 52nd with a visa-free score of 108. V.5446
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01. Jul. 2024 Visa Guide
Canada to Limit Number of Temporary Residents
Key Takeaways • Canada is planning to limit the number of temporary residents to five percent of the population, compared to the current 6.2 percent. • Authorities claim this move aims to guarantee a “sustainable” increase in the number of temporary residents coming into the country. • Foreign workers in construction and healthcare will be exempted from the new rule the rule, due to the country’s labor shortage in these sectors. Canada intends to impose caps on the number of temporary residents it accepts, as announced by Immigration Minister Marc Miller. In accordance with the new decision, the number will decrease over the next three years, with the first cap being set in September, VisaGuide.World reports. Such a policy will be applied to foreign students, foreign workers, and asylum seekers, as reported by BBC. V.5447
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01. Jul. 2024 The Citizen
‘Disregard for human rights’ - Frozen IDs still not unblocked by home affairs
South Africa`s Home Affairs fails court order, leaving 700,000 IDs blocked amid fraud suspicions unresolved. The department of home affairs (DHA) has failed to implement a court ruling instructing it to release some of the identity documents (ID) that were blocked on suspicions of fraud. In January, a judgment was handed down by the high court stating home affairs blocking more than 700 000 IDs was unlawful as the department had not followed proper procedure. Lawyers for Human Rights (LHR), which represented more than 100 people, claimed none of its clients’ IDs had been unblocked in the stipulated 90 days. As part of the administrative process, the department was ordered to obtain a court order to block the IDs which were suspected to be fraudulent. V.5448
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26. Jun. 2024 Sa Migration
Where can I apply for an ID online?
The short answer You can submit ID and passport applications and payments on the eHomeAffairs website. The whole question Where can I apply for my ID online? Furthermore, can I apply using a copy of my mother`s ID? My mother left when I was still young. The long answer To answer the first question: Home Affairs says you can apply for your ID using the online service at: https://ehome.dha.gov.za/ehomeaffairsv3. V.5444
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24. Jun. 2024 Hindustan Times
Canada study permit for 50-year-old Indian sparks fury, ‘You can’t just come here with a visitor visa and…`
Indian-origin man lambasted for entering Canada with a visitor visa and then transitioning to a study permit to supposedly extend his stay in the country. Conversations related to visas and immigration are always sensitive matters owing to the cumbersome baggage (emotional, financial and official) attached. So, the announcement of one finally succeeding at crossing off all legal boxes to enter a country should ideally be a cause for celebration. However, one such recently surfaced case of an Indian-origin man securing a study permit for his Canadian stay had Reddit up in arms. V.5442
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24. Jun. 2024 Visa Guide
Canada Records Decrease in Foreign Students Following Introduction of Stricter Visa Rules
Key Takeaways • The number of foreign students in Canada has started to decrease following the introduction of stricter visa regulations. • Canada aims to reduce the number of approved study permits by 35 percent. • In addition to foreign students, the government plans to impose caps on the number of foreign workers and asylum claimants. The number of study permit holders in Canada decreased by 24,594 during January and March 2024, compared with a decrease of 16,000 during the same months in 2023, Statistics Canada has revealed. V.5443
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21. Jun. 2024 Business Tech
Big loss for Home Affairs in South Africa
The Department of Home Affairs has lost its legal battle over Zimbabwean Exemption Permits (ZEPs). The Helen Suzman Foundation and the Consortium for Refugees and Migrants in South Africa (CoRMSA) previously took the Minister of Home Affairs Aaron Motsoaledi to court over his termination of the ZEP under the Promotion of Administrative Justice Act, 2000 (PAJA). V.5436
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21. Jun. 2024 Business Day
The real culprit behind SA’s immigration woes
Proposed changes to the Citizenship Act fail to deal with the most serious problem: the department of home affairs The final white paper released recently by the home affairs ministry has brought SA’s immigration landscape into sharp focus. While it highlights several areas of concern within the present immigration framework, it fails to address the deeper issue at hand: the department of home affairs itself. V.5437
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21. Jun. 2024 The Citizen
Woman still fighting Home Affairs for ID 10 years later
Primrose Modisane, denied South African citizenship, fights decade-long battle for identity documentation and recognition. A Gauteng-based woman has been living a life of squalor because she does not have an identity document Primrose Modisane, 36, from Vosloorus in Ekurhuleni, claims she has tried in vain to convince the department of home affairs to issue her documentation as they kept on demanding endless proof that she was South African. V.5438
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21. Jun. 2024 MoonStone
SCA overturns precedent-setting cyber-crime judgment
The Supreme Court of Appeal (SCA) has set aside a judgment that opened the door to liability claims against businesses that send their banking details in an unsecured manner to a debtor who falls victim to cyber-crime. In January last year, the High Court in Johannesburg ordered law firm Edward Nathan Sonnenbergs (ENS) to pay Judith Hawarden R5.5 million, plus interest and costs. Hawarden lost the money in August 2019 when she transferred the balance owed on a R6m property purchase. Hawarden thought she was paying the money into ENS’s account, but a cyber-criminal had accessed her email account. V.5440
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21. Jun. 2024 Tourism Update
Onerous visa regs threaten SA’s headquarter ambitions
South Africa’s immigration regulations could threaten the country’s aim to be the headquarters base for multinationals wanting to expand their operations into Africa, the Business Day reports. According to the report, Tata International has decided to base some of its key personnel in Tanzania because of the long delay in getting visas and work permits for its senior managers in SA. V.5441
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19. Jun. 2024 Business Day
There is a palpable change at home affairs department
But efficiency is not enough; applications must be processed fairly and approved without bias Something appears to have shifted within the department of home affairs, sparking a glimmer of hope for visa applicants and practitioners alike. In recent months there has been a noticeable increase in the speed at which applications are being processed. While it is too early to determine the exact cause, it is worth noting that this acceleration coincides with ongoing court cases challenging the department’s handling of immigration matters. Whether these changes are a direct response to legal pressure remains speculative, but the progress and outcomes we’re witnessing are undeniable. This is a significant step forward, signalling a potential turnaround in the backlog that has plagued the immigration system since the reopening after the Covid lockdowns. Could this be the beginning of the end for the backlog? We cautiously hope so. V.5432
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19. Jun. 2024 BBC
Biden to give legal status to 500,000 undocumented spouses
President Joe Biden has announced a new policy that would protect hundreds of thousands of undocumented spouses of US citizens from deportation, according to administration officials. The issue of immigration has proven an election-year headache for Mr Biden, who recently issued a sweeping executive action to curb record migrant arrivals at the US-Mexico border. The new policy will apply to those who have been in the country for at least 10 years and will allow them to work in the US legally. The White House believes more than 500,000 spouses will be eligible. Speaking at an event at the White House on Tuesday, Mr Biden said the move would help the US immigration system become less `unfair` and `unjust` for the benefit of immigrants, married couples - and all Americans. V.5433
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19. Jun. 2024 News24
Constitutional Court dismisses application for leave to appeal Zimbabwe permit decision
he Constitutional Court dismissed an application by the home affairs minister for leave to appeal a June 2023 Gauteng High Court in Pretoria ruling that the Zimbabwean Exemption Permit (ZEP) programme had been unlawfully terminated. The court ordered the minister to meaningfully consult with the 178 000 affected permit holders, according to GroundUp. The matter was brought to court by the Helen Suzman Foundation, which argued that the minister had not taken into account the profound impact of the termination of the ZEP programme on those who had been living and working in South Africa, legally, for more than a decade. V.5434
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18. Jun. 2024 Enca
GNU | PA wants either Home Affairs or Police Ministry
JOHANNESBURG - The Patriotic Alliance says it`s willing to take the Police Ministry if Home Affairs isn`t up for grabs. The party has been gunning for Home Affairs, promising to mass deport all illegal foreigners. V.5429
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18. Jun. 2024 Travel Channel
Schengen-Style Visas For Asia & Africa? Exploring A New Era Of Multi-Country Travel
Will the proposed Schengen-style multi-country unified visa system ease travel across Southeast Asia, the Middle East and southern Africa? Visa applications can be time-consuming, with embassies evaluating documents, biometrics, and travel history. The US and Schengen visas have gained a global reputation for their thorough and extensive processes. However, in the wake of the pandemic, there has been a global surge in tourism and many countries are seeking to streamline visa processes to boost tourism and the local economies. Visas are being reimagined through new schemes and policies, with many nations bringing in the Schengen-style unified multi-country visa. V.5430
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18. Jun. 2024 The South African
Zimbabwe consulate in South Africa rolls out e-passports
Zimbabwe’s consulate in South Africa has announced that it will start rolling out an e-passport facility, starting on Tuesday. Consul-General Eria Phiri explained in a public notice that the first phase involved training consulate staff. This concluded on 15 June, and will now be followed by a system test run from June 18 to 21. South Africa is home to over one million Zimbabwean nationals. This is according to the country’s census data and the International Organisation for Migration (IOM). The IOM also notes that many have entered South Africa without proper documentation. Zimbabweans have left their home country en masse to escape a political crisis, harsh economic conditions and chronic underdevelopment. V.5431
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13. Jun. 2024 IOL
Namibia demands reciprocal visas for their nationals
Nationals from thirty one countries will need to complete an online application form and obtain visas-on-arrival. Namibia`s Ministry of Home Affairs, Immigration, Safety and Security (MHAISS) has declared that thirty one countries, mainly from Europe, will be removed from its visa-exempt list due to the lack of reciprocal visa arrangements for Namibian citizens. While the implementation date is yet to be determined, nationals from these countries will need to complete an online application form and obtain visas-on-arrival, as stated by MHAISS. V.5428
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11. Jun. 2024 IOL
Border management dispels rumours claiming that there are flight delays at OR Tambo Airport
The Border Management Authority (BMA) has dismissed reports claiming that a transition to a biometric system at OR Tambo International Airport is causing delays for all international departures and arrivals. Commissioner at BMA, Dr Michael Masiapato said the false reports have caused unnecessary concern among travellers and stakeholders. V.5427
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10. Jun. 2024 Times Lives
Home affairs grapples with authenticity of relationships
The department needs to establish authenticity before granting spousal or relative visas A major headache for the department of home affairs in processing temporary residence visas is having to establish the authenticity of relationships claimed between individuals. V.5421
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10. Jun. 2024 Visa News
5 South African Countries Announce Plans to Introduce Single Visa to Promote Tourism
Key Takeaways • Angola, Botswana, Namibia, Zambia, and Zimbabwe are planning to introduce a single tourist visa. • This visa, similar to the Schengen one, will permit entry to all these five countries for a short period. • GCC countries will soon also launch a single visa. Angola, Botswana, Namibia, Zambia, and Zimbabwe have announced plans to simplify the movement of foreign travelers within their territories without the need to apply for separate documents. V.5422
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10. Jun. 2024 The South African
There’s a huge VISA backlog at home affairs that’s stifling SA
It’s ironic that with so many South Africans trying to leave the country, it’s a visa backlog for people trying to get INTO the country that’s stifling economic growth. According to a report from Business Tech, the Department of Home Affairs (DHA) has a visa backlog of 62 000 applications. These are for people and workers trying to get into the country to fill critical skills shortages. Now, visa agent Xpat, says the DHA are rejecting applications out of hand to simply try clear the huge visa backlog. The agent specialises in work permits for people coming to South Africa. It says individuals, HR professionals and businesses face lengthy delays and a needlessly complex application process WHAT’S THE REASON FOR THE VISA BACKLOG? Since COVID, there have been a number of changes to rectify problems within the DHA. And Xpatweb believes these administrative processes have led to mounting rejections for frivolous reasons. V.5423
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10. Jun. 2024 News24
`Habibi, come to South Africa!`: Dubai Bling`s Ebraheem confirms Forever Rose coming to SA
• Ebraheem Al Samadi, celebrated for his role on Dubai Bling, chose South Africa as his exquisite holiday destination. • He praised the country`s stunning landscapes, rich history, and the warmth of its people, declaring it an ideal vacation destination. • Al Samadi revealed plans to expand his Forever Rose café franchise to South Africa and teases what he describes as the ultimate season of Dubai Bling. `My name is Ebraheem, and this is my tongue. Beware!` The Blooming Man says in Netflix`s Dubai Bling, an iconic line that cements his place as `the son of a king, and the son of a queen`. V.5424
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10. Jun. 2024 The Guardian
High court rules Home Office acted unlawfully over visa documents
Home Office failed to provide digital proof of status to those applying for visa extensions, in new Windrush-style scandal The Home Office is facing a new Windrush-style scandal after a landmark high court ruling found that the home secretary acted unlawfully by failing to provide documents to thousands of migrants proving they are here legally. The charity Ramfel brought the legal challenge along with Cecilia Adjei, a healthcare worker and mother of two boys aged 17 and 11, who came to Britain from Ghana in 2000. V.5425
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10. Jun. 2024 City Press
SA`s population is getting older: `New report offers government blueprint for future planning`
Expert says the new report gives government an opportunity to plan ahead to meet the country’s needs. The South African population has grown by 1.1% in the past year to about 63.1 million. Of this number, 51.6 million are black Africans, followed by coloured people and the white population projected at about 5 175 608 and 4 607 554, respectively. People of Indian and Asian origin are estimated to be at 1.7 million. V.5426
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07. Jun. 2024 BusinessTech
South Africa scores massive own-goal
Woes within South Africa’s visa processes have left businesses and skilled workers in limbo, hurting investment and business activity as a result. Recently, French diplomats warned that South Africa’s strict visa requirements are driving investors away. In addition to this, Western Cape Provincial Minister of Finance and Economic Opportunities, Mireille Wenger, said that a key obstacle attracting investment and expanding business is “the broken South African visa regime.” “To facilitate foreign investment, companies need to be able to easily access South Africa and those who apply for critical skills visas typically help to develop new and existing sectors, in line with international best practice or by helping to new industries through skills development,” said Wegner. Companies aiming to operate in the country must invest a minimum of R5 million and ensure at least 60% of their employees are South African. V.5419
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07. Jun. 2024 SURin english
Almost half the adult population of Spain is having difficulty making ends meet
The rising cost of living has bumped up the number of people at risk of poverty in the country to 12.7 million . `I can`t make ends meet`. This is a phrase that is heard more and more frequently among the people of Spain. Rising food prices, the supply chain crisis and the war in Ukraine have further widened the gap between the cost of living and the salary that many workers in Spain receive at the end of the month. This imbalance between income and expenditure has led to a significant loss of purchasing power, which economists estimate to be around 1,200 euros. V.5420
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06. Jun. 2024 IOL
Cape Town boy can relocate to Germany with mom
The Western Cape High Court has ruled it would be in the best interests of a 12-year-old boy to relocate to Germany following a custody battle between his divorced parents. The Western Cape High Court has ruled it would be in the best interests of a 12-year-old boy to relocate to Germany following a custody battle between his divorced parents. Judge Gayaat Salie granted the mother, an air traffic controller who accepted a job offer in Germany, the right to have her son permanently removed from Cape Town to live with her despite the father submitting a counter application. In her judgment, Judge Salie said: “The most salient words were however expressed by none other than the minor parties’ 12-year-old son, who forms the subject of this application. V.5417
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06. Jun. 2024 Times Lives
25 travellers intercepted on flights from Bangladesh, Pakistan, Ghana and Nigeria deported at OR Tambo
Thirteen Bangladeshis and three Pakistanis were found to be in possession of fake visitors’ visas, while one Bangladeshi, a Nigerian, three Pakistanis and four Ghanaians, failed to meet the entry requirements on arrival. Twenty-five foreigners were intercepted and deported by Border Management Authority (BMA) immigration officials at OR Tambo International Airport (Ortia) on Tuesday night trying to enter South Africa illegally. Thirteen Bangladeshis and three Pakistanis were found to be in possession of fake visitors’ visas, while one Bangladeshi, a Nigerian, three Pakistanis and four Ghanaians failed to meet the entry requirements on arrival. They were intercepted on flights from Bangladesh, Pakistan, Ghana and Nigeria. The BMA said they were deported back in accordance with the International Civil Aviation Organisation (ICAO) regulations. V.5418
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05. Jun. 2024 Reuters
Italy`s Meloni blames organised crime for `alarming` migrant visa fraud
Criminal gangs are exploiting loopholes in Italy`s legal visa system for foreign workers to smuggle in illegal immigrants, a problem the anti-Mafia prosecutor should investigate, Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni told her cabinet on Tuesday. As part of its tough stance on immigration, Meloni`s rightist government has passed an array of measures to curb arrivals, but has also expanded legal immigration channels in response to growing labour shortages. V.5415
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05. Jun. 2024 Daily Maverick
EU visa restrictions on Ethiopians highlight further strains in migration relations
Since 29 April, the European Union (EU) has imposed temporary restrictions on Schengen short-term visas for Ethiopians. These include prohibiting multiple entry visas, longer processing times, and eliminating waivers for certain documentary requirements and visa fees. The European Commission said the action was due to a “lack of response from the Ethiopian authorities regarding readmission requests,” and shortcomings in organising “voluntary and non-voluntary return operations,” (the latter is how the EU describes deportation). The restrictions raise concerns about the efficiency and fairness of the EU’s migration policies. Ethiopia’s Foreign Ministry Spokesperson Nebiyu Tedla said the developments were “incompatible with acceptable diplomatic practices” and asked the EU Council to reconsider the “unfair” restrictions. V.5416
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04. Jun. 2024 Schengen News
Irish Authorities Identified 50 Individuals Without Visas Arriving from UK Last Week
Key Takeaways • 50 people without proper visas or papers have been denied entry to Ireland over the past week. • In recent weeks, several tents have been set up along Dublin’s Grand Canal due to the lack of accommodation for asylum seekers. • Irish authorities have announced regular checks in a bid to prevent any potential violation of immigration laws. Ireland’s National Police and Security Service (Garda) has detected 50 individuals without necessary visas or papers coming from the United Kingdom over the past week. The checks were conducted over a period of four days, starting from May 20, SchengenNews reports. V.5410
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04. Jun. 2024 TraveloBiz
Schengen Visa Rejection: Top 10 Countries with the Most Denied Applications
Planning a European adventure? The Schengen visa unlocks travel across 26 countries, but getting approved can be a challenge. While rejection rates dipped slightly in 2023, some countries are stricter than others. Travelling to Europe requires a Schengen visa, and some countries have higher rejection rates than others. In 2023, more than 1.6 million visa applications were denied, representing 15.8% of all requests filed. Here’s a closer look at the top 10 countries with the highest Schengen visa rejection rates. V.5411
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04. Jun. 2024 Moneyweb
Digital nomad visa a step in the right direction
South Africa has joined more than 50 countries that offer a digital nomad visa to foreign employees and individuals, giving them the opportunity and flexibility to live and work where they want. Although lauded as a step in the right direction, foreign entities and workers must carefully consider the tax and employment implications of their arrangements. It could result in complex tax obligations, making their stay financially less favourable. V.5412
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04. Jun. 2024 SA Migration
Notarial Contract Agreement - EXPLAINED
LIFE PARTNERSHIP AGREEMENT Life partnerships differ from a marriage in that it is neither binding to the husband or the wife or both parties involved. Although the courts have decided whether an express or implied partnership exists, it becomes problematic in proving that such legal obligations exist. Life partnerships (cohabitations) are unique in that they have the same legal consequences as that of a marriage, but parties are not legally bound to each other. Life partnerships (cohabitations) are terminated either by the relationship failing or by death of either party. V.5414
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04. Jun. 2024 Businesstec
Canada is after these skills in South Africa, offering up to R6 million
Canada is actively recruiting foreign skilled healthcare and Information Technology (IT) professionals, including South Africans. Canada has noted that persistent staffing shortages in the healthcare sector following the pandemic have led some organisations, including certain provincial government agencies, to rely more on foreign workers to fill positions in clinics, hospitals, and senior care facilities nationwide. V.5455
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30. May. 2024 The Economist
Home Affairs to introduce entry visa requirement for non-reciprocating nations
The Ministry of Home Affairs, Immigration, Safety and Security (MHAISS) in a recent announcement, revealed its intention to implement an entry visa requirement for nationals hailing from countries that have not reciprocated Namibia’s favourable visa policies. Etienne Maritz, the executive director at MHAISS, outlined this decision last week, highlighting its aim to foster fair and balanced diplomatic relations. The directive, set to impact citizens from 31 nations, including Belgium, Canada, Denmark, Finland, France, Germany, Britain, and the United States, comes as a response to years of one-sided goodwill gestures from Namibia. V.5406
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30. May. 2024 Reuters
DR Congo names new government after months of delay
Democratic Republic of Congo has appointed a new government, spokesperson Tina Salama said in the early hours of Wednesday, ending an impasse that has mired the country in political uncertainty for months. President Felix Tshisekedi won a second term after elections in late 2023 that also handed his Sacred Union coalition a large majority in parliament. But internal jostling for jobs has delayed the formation of a new cabinet of ministers. V.5407
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28. May. 2024 SA MIGRATION ,NANDUTU AND OTHERS V MINISTER OF HOME AFFAIRS
Change of status from Visitor’s Visa now allowed for spouses and children of South African citizens and permanent residents meaning you can from a tourist visa to spouse or relatives visa
Spouses and children of South African (SA) citizens and permanent residents were prohibited from changing their Visitor’s Visas, used to enter South Africa, to other types of longer term visas, for example relative’s visas, study visas and work visas. These applicants had to travel abroad (to their home countries, although they perceived SA as their home country) file the required longer term visa application at the South African Mission, obtain the visa and then return to South Africa. This meant in practice that families were torn apart, the spouses’ right to cohabitation and children’s rights to dignity were infringed whilst the visa formalities had to be met. V.5405
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27. May. 2024 Business Tech
What to do if you lose your South African passport overseas
Losing a passport can be a serious problem if you are abroad on holiday or a business trip. According to Nedbank, the following steps must be immediately taken if you lose your passport: • Report the loss at the nearest police station. • Contact the nearest South African embassy, consulate or high commission. You do not have to completely abandon your travel plans as a South African diplomatic or consular mission can issue an emergency travel certificate that will allow one to return to South Africa at the end of their trip. One can also apply for a new passport when they apply for an emergency travel certificate. V.5399
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27. May. 2024 The Guardian
Canada to restore right of citizens born abroad to pass citizenship to children also born outside country
Federal government to amend Citizenship Act, removing ‘second-generation cut-off’ introduced by Conservative government Canada plans to restore the right of citizens born abroad to pass their citizenship to children also born outside the country, following a court ruling that a “first-generation limit” in the law was unconstitutional. The federal government announced legislation to amend the Citizenship Act, removing a “second-generation cut-off” introduced by the previous Conservative government, after an Ontario court ruled in December that the limit was unconstitutional. “We wanted to take this opportunity to continue to minimize differential outcomes as much as possible for children born abroad … compared to children born to Canadians [in Canada],” said Marc Miller, the immigration minister, to reporters on Thursday. “Not everyone is entitled to [citizenship], but for those who are, it needs to be fair.” V.5400
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27. May. 2024 SA Migration
Moving to South Africa what can I bring and what duties do I pay
The ins and outs of importing personal goods into South Africa Importing personal goods into South Africa is subject to a host of rules and regulations, as is to be expected. This is standard practice all around the world when moving goods from one country to another. But we’ve simplified matters for you by summarising all the important information in one place. Simply continue reading to learn what’s allowed and what’s not and which forms are required. 1. The rules and regulations Immigrants, returning SA residents, temporary residents and diplomats are allowed to import household and personal effects into South Africa. You are allowed one-duty free import. To do a second import, you’ll have to obtain permission from SA Customs. V.5401
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27. May. 2024 The Citizen
BMA intercepts 28 Bangladeshis with fake visas at OR Tambo Airport
A total of 28 Bangladeshi nationals were intercepted on arrival at OR Tambo International Airport (ORTIA), the Border Management Authority (BMA) said. It is understood the Bangladeshis were intercepted by BMA Immigration officials during an intelligence-driven operation on a flight from Dubai on Saturday. Fake visas With just two days before South Africa’s national and provincial elections, the BMA said it is on high alert at all ports of entry to monitor movements. “During the operation, 27 Bangladeshis were found to be in possession of fraudulent visas and one Bangladeshi did not have a visa at all. “The travellers were in contravention of the South African Immigration Act by possessing fraudulent travel documents. The Bangladesh nationals arrived in the country with visitors’ visas and were denied entry,” the BMA said. V.5402
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27. May. 2024 News24
Denied entry - 27 Bangladeshi nationals caught with fake visas at OR Tambo Airport
The Border Management Authority arrested 28 foreign nationals for attempting to enter South Africa illegally. • The Border Management Authority (BMA) apprehended 28 Bangladeshi nationals travelling from Dubai using fake documents. • Twenty-seven of them had fraudulent visas and one had no visa at all. • The BMA recently graduated 400 border guards, who are expected to aid in the control of people coming into and leaving South Africa. Twenty-eight foreign nationals have been arrested for attempting to enter South Africa illegally. During an intelligence-driven operation at OR Tambo International Airport on Saturday, the Border Management Authority (BMA) intercepted a group of Bangladeshi citizens on a flight from Dubai. V.5403
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24. May. 2024 Tech Republic
Generative AI Defined: How it Works, Benefits and Dangers
Table of Contents - What is generative AI in simple terms -How does generative AI work -Examples of generative AI -Types of generative AI models -What is ChatGPT -What is Google Gemini -Benefits of generative AI -Use cases of generative AI -Dangers and limitations of generative AI -What is the difference between generative AI and general AI -What is the difference between generative AI and machine learning -What is the difference between generative AI and regenerative AI -How big a role will generative AI play in the future of business? What is generative AI in simple terms Generative AI is a type of artificial intelligence technology that broadly describes machine learning systems capable of generating text, images, code or other types of content, often in response to a prompt entered by a user. V.5389
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24. May. 2024 SA Migration
Business Startup as a foreigner South Africa
Starting a business as a foreigner in South Africa can be an arduous task without enlisting professional help. There are a number of ‘hoops’ that must be circumvented and the process can be time consuming and a distraction from the all important task of establishing your business. At SA Migration Immigration we have assisted hundreds of entrepreneurs with their ambition to create a business in South Africa and are able to boast of an unrivalled track record of success, all based on what we believe to be the most comprehensive service available. Below we detail the important aspects of starting a business as a foreigner in South Africa but if you prefer to talk to a human being to discuss your needs, feel free to call us on any our contact numbers V.5392
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24. May. 2024 SA Migration
South Africa Work Visa Types
Introduction A South Africa work visa is an official permit that enables individuals from foreign countries to work and reside legally in South Africa for a specified period. The different South Africa work visa types grant holders the right to engage in employment within the country. With various categories tailored to specific eligibility criteria and requirements, South Africa employment visas offer opportunities for individuals to contribute their skills and expertise to the vibrant South African workforce. Whether it is for pursuing a career and experiencing the rich cultural heritage, obtaining a South Africa employment visa opens doors to exciting possibilities in this diverse and dynamic nation. V.5395
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24. May. 2024 SA Migration
How to apply for a permanent residence permit in South Africa in 2024:
South Africa is a beautiful country with many lively cultures, an affordable cost of living, and many opportunities to harness. So, if you are considering settling in South Africa for the long term in 2024, understanding the process of securing a permanent residence permit is crucial. The permanent residence process might be rigorous and tedious, but getting that permit as a foreigner comes with many attractive benefits. Whether you want to invest in the country, work, study, or marry, this permit makes it easy. V.5396
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24. May. 2024 SA Migration
Relatives visa for immigration to South Africa
What is a Relatives visa or visa for immigration to South Africa The South African Immigration Act allows applications for permanent residence from those who have a first kin relationship with either a South African Permanent Resident or Citizen. This category of visa is known as a relatives visa. You can learn more about the relatives visa by viewing the below information, or if you prefer the human touch simply call us on any of the above numbers, request a call back here, or email your enquiry. What is a first kin relationship? The regulations that govern the relatives visa define a first kin relationship as: • Parent. • Child. Therefore an application for immigration, under the relatives visa can be made by the: • Child of a South African citizen or permanent residence holder. • Parent of a South African citizen or permanent residence holder. V.5397
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22. May. 2024 TraveloBiz
South Africa Plans to Introduce E-Visa and 90-Day Visa Waiver for Indians
South Africa is rolling out the welcome mat for Indian tourists with a focus on simplifying the visa application process with an e-visa and potentially offering a 90-day visa waiver. This exciting news comes as the country aims to attract more visitors from India, a rapidly growing travel market. E-Visas for Streamlined Applications Indian tourists can soon expect a smoother visa application experience. The South African government, led by Minister of Tourism Patricia de Lille, announced plans to introduce an E-Visa system specifically for Indian travellers. This online system will eliminate the need to visit an embassy or consulate, saving time and hassle. Visa Waiver Proposal V.5379
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22. May. 2024 Businesstech
Big visa changes for South Africa are back
The Department of Home Affairs has re-gazetted amendments to South Africa’s immigration laws, after previously gazetting and then withdrawing them. On 28 March, the DHA published the amended immigration regulations. However, because this was a day before the closing date of the public comment period, the minister, Aaron Motsoaledi issued a notice withdrawing the changes. This created confusion and consternation among businesses and in the tourism industry in particular, as the amendments introduced long-sought-after changes to visas and the entry of critical skills to South Africa. V.5380
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22. May. 2024 Businesstech
New labour rules for South Africa - what you need to know
New Labour Court and Labour Appeal Court rules, including changes to restraint of trade and holiday-time litigation, have been published in the Government Gazette. According to Chloë Loubser and Ayanda Nkabinde from Bowmans, the new rules include major procedural changes and technical advancements. These aim to ensure that matters in the Labour Court are handled efficiently, which should help clear the challenging backlog. Although the new rules’ effective date is yet to be published, Loubser and Nkabinde said they should be published in another Gazette in due course. Practitioners will need to become familiar with the new technical details of the rules, with the experts highlighting some of the key provisions that employers should know about: V.5381
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22. May. 2024 News24
SA`s nomad visa, aimed at foreigners who earn more than R1m - takes effect
The Department of Home Affairs refiled long-awaited changes to its work-permit regime to allow for the creation of a so-called nomad visa for remote workers. The 20 May gazetting of the changes, which had last month been withdrawn after the department failed to observe a mandatory period for public comment, means that the changes are now law.It’s also seeking to allow people employed and paid by companies elsewhere to live in the country as long as they earn at least R1 million annually. V.5384
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22. May. 2024 Daily Mavrick
SAs new white paper on migration doesn’t quite hold up against international human rights
Many migrant children, having been told they would be safe and things would be better in South Africa, are finding this to be far from the truth. The Equal Education Law Centre is concerned about the impact that the final White Paper on Citizenship, Immigration and Refugee Protection will have on migrant and undocumented children’s rights - including the right to education. On 10 April 2024, Cabinet approved the final White Paper on Citizenship, Immigration and Refugee Protection. It was gazetted on 17 April. The document outlines sweeping plans for reform, including increased border monitoring, establishing immigration courts and withdrawing from international and regional human rights instruments. V.5385
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22. May. 2024 Bloomberg
South Africa set to create nomad visa for remote workers
South Africa’s Department of Home Affairs refiled long-awaited changes to its work permit regime to allow for the creation of a so-called nomad visa for remote workers. The May 20 gazetting of the changes, which had been withdrawn last month after the department failed to observe a mandatory period for public comment, means that the changes are now law. It’s also seeking to allow people employed and paid by companies elsewhere to live in the country as long as they earn at least R1 million ($55,404) annually. The visa comes with a short-term tax exemption. V.5387
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21. May. 2024 My BroadBand
New engineering qualifications proposed for South Africa
The Quality Council for Trades and Occupations (QCTO) has proposed 13 new occupational qualifications, which are available for public comment. These qualifications range from National Qualification Framework (NQF) level 3 to level 6 and include four engineering qualifications. QCTO CEO Vijayen Naidoo published it in a Government Gazette on 14 May 2024. According to the QCTO, an occupational qualification is a “qualification associated with a trade, occupation or profession resulting from work-based learning.” V.5377
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20. May. 2024 Daily News
Visa refusal spike stalls Turkish tour companies, says sector rep
The increasing rejection rate for Schengen visa applications from Turkish citizens has brought the operations of tour companies to a grinding halt, according to a prominent industry representative. `As of 2024, even being able to apply for a visa is a success... We don`t know exactly what percentage of those who requested a visa were able to make an appointment,` said Association of Turkish Travel Agencies (TÜRSAB) head Firuz Bağlıkaya. V.5370
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20. May. 2024 News24
Home Affairs minister ordered to pay refugee R300 000 following unlawful arrest
• In June 2017, a refugee went to a Department of Home Affairs office to apply for the re-issue of his refugee papers that had been stolen during a robbery. • Instead of getting help, Ntahompagaze Abdul was arrested by Home Affairs officials on a charge of being an illegal immigrant and detained for 13 days. • The Gauteng High Court in Pretoria has ordered that the minister of Home Affairs pay R300 000 to the refugee for the unlawful arrest and detainment. The Gauteng High Court in Pretoria has ordered the minister of Home Affairs to pay R300 000 to a refugee who was unlawfully arrested at one of the department`s offices after he tried to apply for a re-issue of his refugee papers that had been stolen. V.5371
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20. May. 2024 News24
Whistleblowers played key role in starting corruption probe at home affairs refugee centres
• The Special Investigating Unit raided home affairs refugee centres around the country. • The search and seizure operation forms part of a probe into allegations of corruption linked to the issuing of asylum and refugee papers to foreign nationals entering South Africa. • Head of the unit, advocate Andy Mothibi, said information from whistleblowers played a key role in getting the probe off the ground. It was thanks to information from whistleblowers that the Special Investigating Unit (SIU) obtained warrants for Friday morning`s nationwide search and seizure operation at home affairs refugee centres. The SIU simultaneously raided all five home affairs refugee centres on Friday morning as part of a corruption probe linked to the issuing of asylum and refugee papers to foreign nationals entering South Africa. News24 was present at the large refugee centre in Marabastad, Pretoria, where more than 60 home affairs officials were understood to have been identified as suspects in the investigation. V.5372
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20. May. 2024 The Citizen
‘Money talks’ - Corruption crackdown targets refugee centres and Home Affairs
Legitimate asylum seekers are being sidelined in favour of these people who are able to pay massive bribes.` A crackdown on corruption in refugee centers countrywide is underway, as the Special Investigating Unit (SIU) and the Directorate of Priority Crimes Investigations (Hawks), conducted raids on several home affairs offices. It was a crackdown not only on illegal immigrants, but also on those facilitating them being illegally, Ayesha Kajee, political analyst and research fellow at Afrasid, said. This was specifically pointing a finger at home affairs, which itself had commissioned this investigation after the proclamation issued by the president, she said. “We have a responsibility to admit refugees and to protect and give them the appropriate status, but because of a large degree of corruption, many people who do apply for that status do not qualify. There is a level of criminality both within home affairs and among syndicates operating in collusion with the department,” Kajee said. V.5373
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20. May. 2024 The Citizen
Long wait to annul fake marriage
An administration error has put Elsie Mgwenya`s life on pause, struggling to annul a fake marriage with a foreigner. Imagine having to put your life on hold due to an administration error… That’s exactly what has happened to Elsie Mgwenya, a 47-year-old mother of three from Marite in Bushbuckridge, Mpumalanga. She is trying to get to the bottom of a fake marriage to a foreigner. She blames the department of home affairs for the mistake and is desperate for the fake marriage to be annulled. Mgwenya is unable to get married or obtain a birth certificate for her son and she fears her fiancé, who she’s been with for more than 20 years, could give up on her. V.5374
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20. May. 2024 SA Migration
South Africa Business Visa
Your expression of interest of a business visa has reference and we have provided you with an overview of the basic requirements A Business Visa is issued to foreign nationals wishing to invest in or purchase a business in South Africa. Investment in own Business, with or without a South African partner. 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. Although the Act calls for investment of R5,0 million in a business to get both temporary and permanent business visa, you can get these visas with less capital investment - sometimes for as low asR400,000 ($45,000 USD) investment using our expert team at SA Migration Services. V.5376
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17. May. 2024 The Citizen
Hawks raid home affairs offices across SA amid corruption tip-off
The Special Investigating Unit (SIU) is investigating corruption between home affairs officals and foreign nationals The Hawks and Special Investigating Unit (SIU) raided several home affairs offices across the country on Friday as part of investigations into alleged maladministration and corruption. Minister Aaron Motsoaledi was part of an operation at an office in Pretoria and told eNCA that similar raids were taking place in other locations after information received by a whistleblower. “The corruption is done by officials here and foreign nationals who don’t deserve to be in South Africa but have lots of money to bribe,” he said. V.5363
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17. May. 2024 News24
SIU raids five home affairs refugee centres across SA
Home Affairs Refugee Centres are being raided by the Special Investigation Unit (SIU) and the Hawks. (Alex Mitchley/News24) • The Special Investigating Unit has raided home affairs refugee centres around the country. • Home affairs officials` cellphones have been seized. • SIU boss, advocate Andy Mothibi, and Minister of Home Affairs Aaron Motsoaledi were present at the Pretoria raid. The Special Investigating Unit (SIU) simultaneously raided all five of South Africa`s refugee centres on Friday morning as part of a corruption probe. It is understood that the unit is investigating corruption linked to the issuing of asylum and refugee papers to foreign nationals entering South Africa. V.5364
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17. May. 2024 SA Migration
Registration Requirements For Artisans in South Africa
Applying for critical skills work visa in South Africa as an artisan has been a challenge for the longest time. In 2014 when the current amendments to the Immigration Act were gazetted several gaps were identified in the Act which included the absence of a SAQA accredited professional body to register artisans. ECSA was not an option due to their minimum NQF criteria of 5 which was a notch above the rating being given by SAQA for artisans. There was a time letters issued by the National Artisan Moderation Body, (NAMB), were sufficient and then they were not. There was a time when registration with the South African Institute of Draughting was good enough and then it wasn’t. V.5365
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17. May. 2024 SA Migration
What you need to know about fake work permits in South Africa
You might have obtained your work permit recently and second-guessing whether your visa is valid or not, this is a tricky situation to be in. There are many people out there who pretend to be immigration consultants or immigration lawyers only to scam you and issue you with a fake visa. The worst is being arrested or being detained in South Africa for something that you are not responsible and the Department of Home Affairs is coming down hard on these individuals. Many who don’t qualify for the critical skills are always looking at applying for the general work visa for South Africa and thus one of the most popular options to forge it because of how difficult it is to obtain it. While this could be true many temporary residence permits are forged throughout South Africa. V.5366
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17. May. 2024 SA Migration
How can I get legal permission to work in South Africa?
Legal permission to work in South Africa is accessed by getting a visa. In you case it can be a relatives visa, spousal visa or life partner visa The whole question How I, a Zimbabwean man, can get a visa to be able to stay in South Africa and care for my seven-month-old child and her mother, when my critical skills visa expires in March and I cannot renew it as the skills list was changed this year. The long answer There are three possible visas: • Relatives visa; • Spousal visa; • Life partner visa. V.5367
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17. May. 2024 SA Migration
The Complete Guide to the Financially independent Visa
What is Permanent Residence? • What is Permanent Residence? • Can you buy permanent residency in South Africa? • What is Independent financial permit in South Africa? o But what does it mean to be financially independent? o There are many benefits with this visa when obtaining permanent residency such as: • How much do I need to invest in South Africa to get permanent residence? o What are examples of assets that could be counted as net-worth assets? • Can I add my family to the visa? o What do I need to add them to the visa? • What are the government fees for the visa? • • What happens if I dont qualify for the visa? V.5368
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17. May. 2024 SA Migration
Business Startup as a foreigner South Africa
Starting a business as a foreigner in South Africa can be an arduous task without enlisting professional help. There are a number of ‘hoops’ that must be circumvented and the process can be time consuming and a distraction from the all important task of establishing your business. At SA Migration Immigration we have assisted hundreds of entrepreneurs with their ambition to create a business in South Africa and are able to boast of an unrivalled track record of success, all based on what we believe to be the most comprehensive service available. Below we detail the important aspects of starting a business as a foreigner in South Africa but if you prefer to talk to a human being to discuss your needs, feel free to call us on any our contact numbers V.5369
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16. May. 2024 Gauteng News
Simplified Smart ID Online Application: Your Guide to eHomeAffairs
Table of Contents 1.What is eHomeAffairs? 2.Step-by-Step Guide to Using eHomeAffairs for Your Smart ID Online Application 3.What Do I Need to Start My Smart ID Online Application? 4.Bank Branches Offering Smart IDs 5.Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) The South African Department of Home Affairs has introduced the eHomeAffairs portal, which is a significant advancement in streamlining the Smart ID online application process. This detailed guide delves into the user-friendly features of the platform, making Smart ID and passport applications convenient and accessible at just a click of a button. V.5358
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16. May. 2024 The South African
Dear Home Affairs: You’re impeding the Tshitukas’ Springbok selection!
Bureaucratic procedures and a whole lot of red tape are the only things standing between Vincent and Emmanuel Tshituka and potential call-ups to the Springboks squad this year. To the average local sports fan, the Tshituka’s are just a set of brothers casually dominating rugby games for the Lions and Sharks, respectively. But there’s way more to their story and in order for them to reach their potential on the rugby field, the South African government in general, and the Department of Home Affairs in particular, need to come to the party. V.5359
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16. May. 2024 Daily Investor
Foreign companies leaving South Africa - and government is to blame
Foreign companies are leaving South Africa due to a hostile business environment, and the government’s response to recent departures discourages future investment. This is according to Business Leadership South Africa CEO Busi Mavuso, who explained in her most recent newsletter that the more attractive a country is, the more often you can expect investment to be made than withdrawn. “You can expect that foreign investors will come and go from South Africa, depending on many things, including global strategies and our links to the rest of the world,” she said. “But while decisions are inevitably going to happen both ways, the more attractive our country is, the more often you can expect investment to be made than withdrawn.” V.5360
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16. May. 2024 euronews.travel
Laptop squatters - Cafes in Europe are fed up with space-hogging digital nomads
Some cafes have banned laptops completely while others charge an hourly rate for the privilege of using them. One of the perks of being a digital nomad is swapping a dreary office for a rotation of trendy cafes in destinations around the world. But in some places in Spain, remote workers and their laptops are becoming undesirable customers. Bars and cafes in Valencia, Santiago and Barcelona are cracking down on digital nomads who overstay their welcome. V.5362
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15. May. 2024 MY BROAD BAND
All 30 bank branches offering Smart ID cards and passport renewals
All 30 bank branches offering Smart ID cards and passport renewals Hanno Labuschagne14 May 2024 All 30 bank branches offering Smart ID cards and passport renewals Over half the bank branches that support Smart ID card issuing and passport renewals are in Gauteng. In addition, more than 83% of the branches are in the three most populous provinces in South Africa, while only about 56.3% of the country’s population lives in these provinces. Many people will have to travel far to use one of these branches instead of a regular, problem-ridden Home Affairs office to get a new ID or passport. Thirty bank branches support the eHomeAffairs system introduced by the Department of Home Affairs (DHA) in 2016. V.5355
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15. May. 2024 SA Migration
New deal for children with foreign parents born in South Africa
The Constitutional Court recently ruled that children born in South Africa to foreign parents qualify for South African citizenship in terms of Section 2 of the South African Citizenship Act. That is, if you were born in South Africa to foreign parents who have not been admitted as permanent residents, you qualify to apply for South African citizenship upon becoming a major if your birth was registered and if you have lived here all your life, irrespective of the date of your birth and you have not accepted the nationality of another country. The judgment also reduced the term for applying for citizenship by holders of permanent residence from 5 years to 10 years by declaring Regulation 3(2)(a) of the Citizenship Act Regulations unconstitutional. V.5357
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14. May. 2024 Digital Journal
Turkey Visa For The Bangladesh, South African, Bhutan, Cambodia and Iraq Citizens
Turkey Visa for South African Citizens In 2013, the e Visa program was launched by the Turkish Ministry of Foreign Affairs, enabling citizens of more than 100 countries, such as South Africa, to request a Turkish visa through the internet. Therefore, South African tourists favor Turkey as a destination. South African citizens are no longer required to visit the Turkish embassy in person as they can now conveniently apply for their e-visa online. V.5348
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14. May. 2024 Jurist
Australia court dismisses Iranian asylum seeker’s plea and orders return
The Australian High Court passed a judgement on Friday that dismissed an Iranian asylum seeker’s plea to be released from immigration detention and enter the country. The Iranian asylum seeker, applicant ASF-17, applied to the Federal Court of Australia for a writ of habeas corpus in 2023 on the basis that his continuing detention exceeded the constitutional limitation identified in the orders of NZYQ v Minister for Immigration, Citizenship and Multicultural Affairs released the week prior. The applicant has been refusing to cooperate with the process of being removed from Australia to Iran since 2018, arguing that he would be at risk of persecution for his sexual orientation and religious beliefs. V.5349
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14. May. 2024 The Witness
Corrupt Home Affairs officials are ‘selling SA to foreign nationals’ Those who bear the brunt of the corruption are mostly drug addicts, whose personal information is used by Home Affairs officials to create fake IDs and passports for foreigners.
Home Affairs officials are “selling South Africa to foreign nationals” out of greed, says Minister Aaron Motsoaledi. In an exclusive interview with The Witness on Thursday, Motsoaledi said 182 department officials were dismissed for fraud and corruption between 2018 and 2024. Among those dismissed was a chief director who was implicated in assisting a foreign national in getting a permanent residence permit in the country, at a fee. Those who bear the brunt of the corruption are mostly drug addicts, whose personal information is used by Home Affairs officials to create fake IDs and passports for foreigners. V.5350
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14. May. 2024 IOL
Visa waivers propel South Africa`s tourism sector with 2.4 million visitors
Visa waivers for travellers from Kenya and Ghana have catalysed a remarkable 15.4% increase in international tourist numbers to South Africa. File picture: Tracey Adams/ Independent Newspapers South Africa`s tourism sector is experiencing a renaissance fuelled by the recent removal of visa requirements for travellers from select African countries. The latest data from Statistics South Africa showed a remarkable surge in international arrivals, signalling a promising trajectory for the industry. V.5354
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13. May. 2024 City of CT
CoCT urges clarity on remote work visas amid system crisis
The City of Cape Town has called on the Department of Home Affairs (DHA) to address the visa system crisis and confusion over remote work visas. James Vos, the City’s Mayco member for economic growth, says the department ‘shot itself in the foot’ with the premature gazetting and withdrawal of regulations. ‘On 28 March, the DHA published the amended immigration regulations. This, however, was a day before the closing date of the public comment period. And then, on 12 April, the minister issued a notice withdrawing the 28 March amendments.’ As reported by BusinessTech, the regulations replaced the critical skills list with a new points-based system and introduced the remote work visa category. V.5345
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13. May. 2024 Businesstech
Another visa mess for South Africa
The City of Cape Town has slammed the Department of Home Affairs for creating confusion and continuing to score “infuriating” own goals in launching remote work visas in the country. Mayoral committee member for economic growth, James Vos, said that the last month has seen the department shoot itself in the foot with the premature gazetting and subsequent withdrawal of regulations that would create this category of visa. “On 28 March, the DHA published the amended immigration regulations. This, however, was a day before the closing date of the public comment period. And then, on 12 April, the minister issued a notice withdrawing the 28 March amendments,” Vos said. V.5346
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13. May. 2024 Businesstec
Blocking people from jobs based on criminal records in South Africa, what bosses should know
Recently settled case in the Labour Court demonstrated that excluding a job applicant because of their criminal record is only lawful when the requirements of that job explicitly outline and justify the need for a clean criminal record. However, legal experts say that the court’s decision ultimately delinked trust and honesty from the inherent requirements of a job, which was “concerning.” ENS Africa’s Nils Braatvedt, Kim Vova, and Lutho Zono examined the background, outcome, and subsequent analysis of the recent court ruling in O’Connor v LexisNexis. V.5347
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10. May. 2024 Businesstech
Another visa mess for South Africa
The City of Cape Town has slammed the Department of Home Affairs for creating confusion and continuing to score “infuriating” own goals in launching remote work visas in the country. Mayoral committee member for economic growth, James Vos, said that the last month has seen the department shoot itself in the foot with the premature gazetting-and subsequent withdrawal-of regulations that would create this category of visa. V.5343
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10. May. 2024 SA people news
Visa rejections ‘show bias towards Africa’
The Henley Passport Power Index recently showed the significant limitations African citizens face for international travel and economic mobility because of their passports. These limitiations include lengthy visa applications, possible rejections, and long passport control queues. Only Mauritius and Seychelles passports allow holders to access over 50% of global GDP without needing to obtain a visa. This is despite Africa being home to some of the most visa-open nations when welcoming visitors from abroad Henley & Partners’ latest Africa Wealth Report has highlighted how this ‘exclusion’ is denying Africans from international business opportunities. V.5344
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09. May. 2024 Regulation 30
Legalization process for illegal foreigner to remain in the Republic of South Africa pending an application for Status
Regulation 30(2j of the Regulations deals with the authorisation for an illegal foreigner to remaln in the Republic pending an application for status. The procedure for issuance for the aulhorisation (on DHA-1759) (Form 20) should be as follows: When an illegal foreigner whose visa has expired and ¢could not apply in time as provided for in Ihe Regulations for extension or renewal of his or her visa at the Visa Facilitation Service Centre, due to circumstances beyond his or her control, he or she should be referred to the Inspectorate (at any Home Affairs Office) to determine whether or not good cause exists as to why he or she could not apply on time. V.5340
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09. May. 2024 SA Migration
South Africa Citizenship by Descent: The Ultimate Guide
Table Of Contents 1. What It Means to Be a South African Citizen 2. Benefits of South African Citizenship 3. South African Citizenship by Descent 4. Who Qualifies for South Africa Citizenship by Descent 5. South Africa Citizenship by Descent: Requirements 6. How to Apply for Citizenship Through Descent 7. Getting a South African Passport 8. Other Paths to Citizenship in South Africa 9. Dual Citizenship 10. South Africa Citizenship by Descent: The Wrap-Up 11. FAQs V.5341
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09. May. 2024 My BroadBand
How Capitec and TymeBank customers can get a Smart ID or passport from a bank branch
Capitec and TymeBank customers can temporarily use a low-cost bank account with another major bank to renew their passports or get a Smart ID card from a bank branch. The Department of Home Affairs (DHA) and major banks first rolled out this option via the eHomeAffairs portal and select bank branches in 2016. The facility has expanded to about 30 locations, including branches from Absa, Discovery Bank, FNB, Investec, Nedbank, and Standard Bank. V.5342
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08. May. 2024 Bloomberg
German Firms’ South African Expansion, 100,000 Jobs Threatened by Visa Mess
The gridlock affecting work-permit applications in South Africa is limiting expansion by German companies in the country and threatening operations that support 100,000 jobs, an industry association said. While South Africa is taking steps to improve an approval system and make it easier and quicker to get permits, the snarl-up that was exacerbated by the Covid-19 pandemic has limited the entry of skilled workers into a country that has a dire shortage of them. Between 2014 and 2021 only 25,298 skilled-worker permits were approved by the country, which has a population of 60 million. V.5339
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07. May. 2024 Tech Central
South Africa’s digital nomad visa has downsides, too
In exciting news for digital nomads, South Africa will launch a new digital nomad visa featuring two categories: a remote working visa and a critical skills visa. These visas aim to attract remote workers and skilled professionals globally as part of South Africa’s efforts to position itself as a global hub. Once put into action, this move will establish the country as only the fifth African nation offering this kind of visa to people who spend long periods working in different countries. V.5338
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06. May. 2024 The Citizen
R3 000 to get a fake passport: Former Home Affairs employee nabbed
The Home Affairs official was accused of selling passports at R3,000 to foreigners A 34-year-old former Department of Home Affairs employee will spend the weekend behind bars after being arrested on fraud and corruption charges. Malusi Mlondo appeared briefly in the Durban Specialised Commercial Crime Court on Thursday and was remanded in custody. V.5329
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06. May. 2024 News24
Limpopo Home Affairs official who fraudulently issued birth certificate sentenced to 8 years in jail
Home Affairs Minister Aaron Motsoaledi said the arrest demonstrated the department`s zero-tolerance against corruption. • A Department of Home Affairs employee in Limpopo was sentenced to an effective eight years in jail for fraud and corruption. • NPA spokesperson Mashudu Malaba-Dzhangi said Amos Ngwenyama accepted R1 000 to fraudulently issue a birth certificate. • Minister Aaron Motsoaledi said the sentencing demonstrated the department`s commitment to tackling corruption. V.5330
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06. May. 2024 Biznews
UK man’s Home Affairs “extortion” nightmare
A United Kingdom (UK) citizen - who laid a criminal charge of corruption against a Home Affairs official who wanted R60 000 to renew the retirement visas of him and his wife - is still waiting for the police probe to show results. He is also still waiting for the visas he applied for in 2022. A United Kingdom (UK) citizen - who laid a criminal charge of corruption against a Home Affairs official who wanted R60 000 to renew the retirement visas of him and his wife - is still waiting for the police probe to show results. He is also still waiting for the visas he applied for in 2022. V.5331
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06. May. 2024 News24
Home Affairs speeds up ID process as elections loom but people are still frustrated
With just a few weeks to go until the 2024 elections, the Department of Home Affairs has publicized the nation`s identification document (ID) process. The department acknowledges the critical role of voter identification in facilitating participation and ensuring electoral fairness. Delays and inefficiencies at Home Affairs have historically impeded the democratic right to vote, particularly affecting those in rural areas. V.5332
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06. May. 2024 Binary News Network
Saudi Visa For Kyrgyzstan, Maldives, Tajikistan, Uzbek, African Citizens
SAUDI VISA FOR AFRICAN CITIZENS South Africa is not among the countries exempt from Saudi Arabia visa requirements, therefore a Saudi Arabia visa is required. South Africans need a current visa to travel to Saudi Arabia lawfully. South African citizens can obtain a Saudi electronic visa. Saudi Arabia is located in the Middle East. The eVisa is an electronic visa that permits citizens from approximately 50 countries to travel to Saudi Arabia for tourism. V.5333
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06. May. 2024 My BroadBand
Goodbye Home Affairs hell - Bank branch passport renewal tested.
I recently renewed my passport at Home Affairs in a bank branch and was very impressed with the service and quick turnaround time. The Department of Home Affairs (DHA) and major banks first launched the option to do Smart ID card and passport applications via select bank branches in 2016. It has slowly grown to around 30 locations, including branches from Absa, Discovery Bank, FNB, Investec, Nedbank, and Standard Bank. V.5334
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06. May. 2024 Businesstech
Home Affairs blowing millions on legal battles - and it’s getting worse .
The Department of Home Affairs (DHA) has spent over R412.95 million in legal fees since the start of the 2018/19 financial year - with over R117.69 million of this spent between 1 April 2023 and 29 February 2024. This was revealed by the Minister of Home Affairs, Aaron Motsoaledi, in a recent written response in parliament. DHA has seen an exponential increase in the amount that it spends on litigation, with the current amount for 2023/24 (note these figures are until the end of February, several months short of the full financial year) nearly 16 times that of the amount spent in 2018/19. V.5335
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06. May. 2024 Icef Monitor
Canada: More provincial cap numbers announced; IRCC moves up end date for post-graduate work for partnership programmes
Short on time? Here are the highlights: • Following recent announcements from British Columbia and Ontario, Nova Scotia becomes the latest Canadian province to declare how its quota of study permit applications for 2024 will be distributed across sectors and institutions • As in Ontario, private institutions and language schools stand to be the most negatively affected by the distribution arrangement, but some public universities will also see significant reductions in study permit applications • All Canadian provinces have now distributed their allocation of study permit applications for 2024, and all are now also issuing provincial attestation letters (PALs) V.5336
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06. May. 2024 GroundUp
Elections 2024: What the major political parties say about immigration We sent questions to the ANC, DA, EFF, IFP, FF Plus, ActionSA, PA, MK Party and RISE Mzansi
We asked the major contestants of the 29 May elections about immigration. Illustration: Lisa Nelson Today’s questions and answers to the major political parties deal with immigration. We emailed our questions to the ANC, DA, EFF, IFP, FF Plus, ActionSA, PA, MK Party, and RISE Mzansi on 13 March and sent follow-up queries to those who did not respond. Some have still not responded. Answers are very lightly edited for grammar and typos. Does your party support continued extensions of the Zimbabwe Exemption Permit (ZEP)? V.5337
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05. May. 2024 Schengen Visa
Ireland Considering Ending Visa-Free Travel From South Africa
Key Takeaways • Ireland will be discussing the ending of the visa-free travel scheme with South Africa. • The move comes in an attempt to reduce the number of international protection applicants. • Ireland is currently facing problems with asylum and international protection applicants’ accommodation. Ireland is planning to end visa-free travel from South Africa in an attempt to reduce the number of people applying for international protection and asylum. V.5323
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03. May. 2024 My Broadband
Goodbye Home Affairs hell, Bank branch passport renewal tested
I recently renewed my passport at Home Affairs in a bank branch and was very impressed with the service and quick turnaround time. The Department of Home Affairs (DHA) and major banks first launched the option to do Smart ID card and passport applications via select bank branches in 2016. It has slowly grown to around 30 locations, including branches from Absa, Discovery Bank, FNB, Investec, Nedbank, and Standard Bank. My passport was set to expire in October 2024, and because many countries require that your passport be valid for six months from a travel date, a renewal was due. V.5324
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03. May. 2024 Politicsweb
DHA visa backlog at 92 000
DA MP says this is up 20 000 from the 74 000 six months previously Department of Home Affairs visa backlog is up by 20 000 in 6 months The Democratic Alliance (DA) can reveal that the Department of Home Affairs (DHA) Visa backlog has increased from 74 000 in August 2023 to 92 000 as of 16 February 2024. This is an increase of just under 20 000 in about 6 months. Download the Parliamentary question and answer here. The increase goes against what the Minister told the Home Affairs Parliamentary Committee in March 2023. V.5325
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03. May. 2024 Africanews
EU restricts visa provisions for Ethiopian nationals
The European Union (EU) will limit visas for people from Ethiopia. This is because the Ethiopian government hasn`t been helping take back citizens who stay in the EU illegally. The EU Council announced this in a statement on Monday. Ethiopians won`t get visas for multiple entries anymore. Also, Ethiopians with diplomatic and service passports won`t have their visa fees waived. V.5326
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03. May. 2024 Pretoria News
Criminal convictions not a bar for job - court
CRIMINAL convictions more than two decades ago came to haunt a man who was offered a job as a senior data discovery and enrichment expert, but after his prospective employer got wind of the convictions, retracted the job offer. But the Gqeberha Labour Court came to his rescue and found that the man should be given a second chance, given that his convictions occurred 20 years ago and had meanwhile been expunged. V.5327
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03. May. 2024 Businesstech
South Africa to snatch the crown as biggest economy in Africa
Nigeria’s economy, which ranked as Africa’s largest in 2022, is set to slip to fourth place this year and Egypt, which held the top position in 2023, is projected to fall to second behind South Africa after a series of currency devaluations, International Monetary Fund forecasts show. The IMF’s World Economic Outlook estimates Nigeria’s gross domestic product at $253 billion based on current prices this year, lagging energy-rich Algeria at $267 billion, Egypt at $348 billion and South Africa at $373 billion. V.5328
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25. Apr. 2024 BBC
New family immigration visa rules `penalise couples`
There are fears that more people will be separated by the introduction of a minimum salary level for those wanting UK family visas. Families living in the UK and abroad have raised concerns about what new rules will mean for them as they try to reunite with foreign spouses. In December, the Home Office, which says migration to the UK is too high, announced a package of measures to reduce net migration, following a spike in arrival numbers. V.5318
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25. Apr. 2024 News24
Senior immigration officer slammed by Cape judges after Ethiopian asylum seeker attempts suicide
An Ethiopian asylum seeker, who does not speak English, claims he was duped by a senior immigration official into paying an admission of guilt fine when he thought he was paying for bail.Two Western Cape High Court judges have condemned the official`s `deplorable` behaviour, set aside the fine, and ordered the immigration official be taken off the case. Tsegaye Esyas claims Annelise van Dyk treated him like an animal which led to him attempt suicide while in police cells. V.5320
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25. Apr. 2024 Moneyweb
Possible new precedent set for hiring employees with criminal records
EREMY MAGGS: I want to stay with crime now. Individuals with a criminal record may be faced with significant challenges when seeking employment, I think that’s a given. Here in South Africa, employers may legally exclude an applicant from consideration for a position if having a clean criminal record is what is termed an inherent requirement of the job. That phrase, inherent requirement, is important, but what exactly does that mean, and when can an applicant be lawfully excluded for having a criminal record? V.5321
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25. Apr. 2024 Tech Central
South Africa’s digital nomad visa falls short of the mark
As a South African who has adopted a nomadic work lifestyle alongside my wife, Ingrid Lotze, I’ve been an interested observer of South Africa’s snail-pace digital nomad visa (DNV) development process. Despite the optimism surrounding its introduction, the visa seems to miss several crucial marks for digital nomads like us. V.5322
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22. Apr. 2024 Pilitics Web
DHA lost 77 years` worth of working hours in 5 years Adrian Roos
DA MP says hours lost continue to result in persons being unable to collect their ID documents due to unmanageable queues The DA has been inundated with complaints that the Department of Home Affairs (DHA) systems are offline, resulting in long queues and delayed processing of documents. Through questions posed to the Minister, the DA can now reveal that the DHA has lost over 77 years’ worth of working hours due to system downtime and load-shedding from 2019 to date. Concerningly, this data only relates to hours lost for the application of smart IDs, meaning decades more of working hours could have been additionally lost in other spheres such as passport or visa applications. V.5314
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22. Apr. 2024 The Citizen
Home Affairs has spent over R110 million on court battles in less than a year
Home Affairs’ seemingly endless court battles set the department back more than R110-million between April 2023 and the end of February this year. This was revealed in a written parliamentary response by minister Aaron Motsoaledi. He said the department accumulated a litigation bill of R117 692 996.3, higher than the R72 637 944.51 spent the year before. V.5315
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22. Apr. 2024 Cape Town etc
Cape Town International Airport surpasses 10 million passengers mark
Airports Company South Africa (ACSA) this week revealed that Cape Town International Airport (CTIA) has achieved a ground-breaking milestone by processing more than 10 million passengers over a single financial year. This is the highest number of regional and international passengers processed since COVID-19 V.5316
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19. Apr. 2024 Polity
Exploring the connection between the South African immigration system and job creation
In recent years, South Africa has seen a significant influx of immigrants from various African countries, as well as other parts of the world. This has raised important questions about the country`s immigration policies and their impact on job creation for both locals and immigrants. The South African immigration system, like many other countries, is a complex and ever-evolving process that aims to balance the country`s economic needs with its social and cultural interests. Let`s take a closer look at how this system intersects with job creation in South Africa. The South African government implemented the Immigration Act of 2002, which outlines the country`s immigration policies and procedures. Under this act, foreigners are required to obtain a visa or permit to enter, work, or study in South Africa. The type of visa or permit required depends on the intended purpose of the individual`s visit and their country of origin. V.5312
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19. Apr. 2024 MY BROAD BAND
The System is Down Home Affairs logs 140,859 hours of Smart ID downtime in four years
Due to system downtime and load-shedding, the Department of Home Affairs (DHA) lost nearly 141,000 hours of Smart ID application and production time between the 2019/20 and 2022/23 financial years. Minister Aaron Motsoaledi revealed this figure in a recent response to questions raised in Parliament by Democratic Alliance MP Adrian Roos. Motsoaledi provided a breakdown of smart ID production and application hours lost to technical difficulties and load-shedding per province for each financial year from 2019/2020. These disruptions hit home Affairs offices in the Eastern Cape the hardest, with over 34,000 hours to rotational power cuts and system downtime. Mpumalanga offices lost the next-highest number of hours at 17 V.5313
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18. Apr. 2024 The Citizen
Motsoaledi outlines changes to ‘colonial era legislation’ on citizenship and immigration
Home Affairs Minister Dr Aaron Motsoaledi has said the public has shown great support for the final White Paper on citizenship, immigration and refugee protection which appeared in the Government Gazette on Wednesday. Briefing the media, he addressed what he saw as a long-overdue need to replace an outdated Citizenship Act, as well as enact proposed changes to existing legislation. V.5306
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18. Apr. 2024 Business Day
Crisis at home affairs is tearing families apart
Minister Aaron Motsoaledi’s indifference to the plight of those affected by his decisions is appalling In the tumultuous seas of immigration law, where uncertainty looms and families are left adrift in bureaucratic limbo, the department of home affairs has emerged as a sinking ship. As a director of a firm of immigration attorneys I’ve witnessed first-hand the dire consequences of the department’s negligence and incompetence. Today, I raise my voice not just as an attorney but as a concerned citizen, urging for a radical overhaul to salvage what remains of our immigration system. We have tirelessly fought battles in the courtroom against home affairs’ disregard for agreed-upon time frames. Countless cases have landed on our desks, each one a testament to the systemic failures plaguing the department. We’ve seen cases where contempt applications were the only recourse, as the department brazenly ignored court orders. V.5307
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18. Apr. 2024 Business Live
Cabinet approves plan to overhaul immigration laws
Document proposes overhauling the Citizenship Act, the Refugees Act and the Immigration Act and a review of the international treaty on refugee protection Home affairs minister Aaron Motsoaledi says the cabinet has approved a white paper overhauling the country’s immigration laws after “robust engagements” that resulted in “wide support” of the document’s policy positions. V.5308
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18. Apr. 2024 Politics Web
DHA lost 77 years` worth of working hours in 5 years - Adrian Roos
The DA has been inundated with complaints that the Department of Home Affairs (DHA) systems are offline, resulting in long queues and delayed processing of documents. Through questions posed to the Minister, the DA can now reveal that the DHA has lost over 77 years’ worth of working hours due to system downtime and load-shedding from 2019 to date. Concerningly, this data only relates to hours lost for the application of smart IDs, meaning decades more of working hours could have been additionally lost in other spheres such as passport or visa applications. The lost hours are largely due to system downtime, surpassing load-shedding. In the 2022/2023 financial year, where we experienced extensive load-shedding, system downtime was the cause of 41 691 hours lost (17 years), whereas load-shedding caused around 9 322 hours lost (4 years) at DHA civic offices on the production of smart IDs. V.5309
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18. Apr. 2024 EWN (EYEWITNESS NEWS )
Amendments still needed before White Paper on immigration, citizenship becomes law - Motsoaledi
JOHANNESBURG - Minister of Home Affairs Aaron Motsoaledi said that while the White Paper on Citizenship, Immigration and Refugee Protection had been gazetted, there were amendments that needed to be made to the legislation before it could be passed into law. The White Paper is proposing an overhaul of the country`s migration laws, with the aim of tightening rules around allowing migrants into the country. V.5310
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18. Apr. 2024 Daily Investor
Critical skills flooding out of South Africa
Highly skilled professionals are leaving South Africa to move to other countries, while the local economy faces a skills shortage. Data from The Outlier revealed that there were just over 900,000 South Africans living abroad in 2020. This number has increased steadily over the past 20 years, from 500,000 in 2000, according to Stats SA’s Migration Profile Report for South Africa 2023. Of these 900,000 people, 7 out of 10 are living in either Europe or Oceania. In particular, Australia and New Zealand have seen a large growth in South African residents. In 2020, around 273,000 South Africans were living in those two countries, more than double the 106,000 who lived there in 2000. The UK remains still the top destination for South Africans who leave the country. V.5311
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17. Apr. 2024 BusinessTech
Home Affairs clarifies DELAY in awarding spousal visas
The Department of Home Affairs is going through a torrid time. As The South African reported earlier this year, naturalised South Africans are being refused smart ID cards. This is despite having the same constitutional rights as every other South African citizen. Now, Home Affairs minister Aaron Motsoaledi has decided to clarify the reasons behind lengthy delays for spousal visas.Business Tech reports that some spousal (and relatives) visas are taking up to two years to process. The minister of Home Affairs says this is because documentation and claims need to be verified. Replying to a parliamentary Q&A session, the minister says the issue is being addressed by the Home Affairs ‘Backlog Eradication Plan’. V.5305
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16. Apr. 2024 Times Lives
Nearly 4,000 people blocked from entering SA illegally over Easter
Border Management Authority SA commissioner Mike Masiapato on Sunday revealed that over a 10-day period during Easter nearly 4,000 people were intercepted attempting to enter the country illegally.Addressing a media briefing, Masiapato said 2,403 of those intercepted did not have any documents at all. Another 1,019 individuals were refused entry for being undesirable and 419 were found inadmissible to enter the country due to various reasons.“The majority of those arrested without documents were intercepted at the vulnerable segments of the borderline. They were processed, declared undesirable for five years, and were deported. Most of the inadmissible individuals were found with invalid passports, fraudulent visas or just failed to produce relevant documents such as valid yellow fever certificates, especially those travelling from yellow fever endemic countries,” Masiapato said. V.5303
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16. Apr. 2024 Times Lives
LISTEN | Drones, speedboats, hand-held biometric devices to help manage borders: Motsoaledi
Home affairs minister Aaron Motsoaledi says surveillance drones, speedboats and hand-held biometric devices have been ordered to help manage the country`s porous borders. South Africa`s land borders cover about 4,700km. Insufficient security and the poor state of fencing make the borders insecure, with foreigners entering illegally and allowing other acts of criminality. V.5304
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15. Apr. 2024 The Mercury
Home Affairs visa backlog ballooning as foreign nationals use loophole
Home Affairs Minister Dr Aaron Motsoaledi has blamed visa backlogs on the growth in the number of notarial contracts being instituted by foreign nationals using non-existent spouses. Motsoaledi was speaking at a media briefing in Pretoria, on Tuesday on the amended immigration regulations, over which he said there seemed to be some misunderstanding. He said as a result of the confusion, the department would be withdrawing the gazetted amendments to clear up the misconceptions and would re-gazette them as early as next week. The minister admitted that his department was experiencing a backlog surrounding dependants, spouses and relatives’ visas being sought by foreign nationals who had been approved to come into the country after successfully obtaining employment. He said in most cases while the approvals were easily obtained, they did not include spouses and dependants, which many were decrying as they were not willing to be separated from their families. V.5298
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15. Apr. 2024 Bizcommunity
Home Affairs clarifies misunderstanding on work visas
Home Affairs Minister, Dr Aaron Motsoaledi, has moved to clarify a misunderstanding on the gazetted regulations recommendations on the Critical Skills and General Work Visas. This comes after some media reports had stated that the department had done away with the Critical Skills Visa in favour of a point-based system. Briefing the media on the Second Amendment of the Immigration Regulation 2014 on Tuesday, Motsoaledi pointed out that section 19(4) of the Immigration Act states that a Critical Skills Work Visa may be issued by the Director-General to an individual possessing such skills or qualifications determined to be critical for the Republic from time to time by the Minister by notice in the gazette. V.5299
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15. Apr. 2024 Businesstech
Home Affairs working on major visa changes for South Africa
The Department of Home Affairs (DHA) has backtracked on its new Immigration Regulations but still has several new initiatives in the pipeline for South Africa. Minister of Home Affairs Aaron Motsoaledi said that he would withdraw the recently gazetted Immigration Regulation Amendments. The regulations replaced the highly-contested critical skills list with a new points-based system. The regulations were received positively by businesses in South Africa, with the Consumer Goods Council of South Africa saying that they should ease the administrative burden that international companies with businesses in South Africa face when hiring skilled foreigners. V.5300
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15. Apr. 2024 SABC news
Home Affairs loses 38 000 working hours due to load shedding
The Department of Home Affairs says it has lost close to 38 000 working hours over the past five financial years due to the impact of load shedding. The Eastern Cape has the highest amount of working hours lost at more than 7 900. Mpumalanga lost 5 990 hours, while Gauteng lost 4 621 working hours. This was revealed by the Minister of Home Affairs, Dr Aaron Motsoaledi, replying to a Democratic Alliance (DA) parliamentary question on the total hours lost in each province due to load shedding. DA MP, Christopher Roos, who posed the question, says this is an alarming number of working hours lost, and is a concern for service delivery. V.5301
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15. Apr. 2024 Moneyweb
Cape Town set for record cruise tourist season
Industry injected an estimated R1.2bn into the Western Cape economy in the last financial year, with around 90 000 passengers and 38 000 crew members expected to step ashore in the current year. For the first time in history, Friday (11 April) saw two of the world’s most famous cruise liners the Queen Mary 2 and the Queen Victoria dock in the Port of Cape Town at the same time. V.5302
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12. Apr. 2024 SA Migration
Legalising yourself from within South Africa
In the past, prior to the amendments to the Immigration Act, it was possible for an illegal foreigner to “legalise” or “regularise” him/herself from within South Africa by making payment of the requisite fine. This is no longer the case and we are constantly encountering foreigners who find themselves illegally in South Africa with little hope of rectifying their situation. The current dilemma In many cases, these illegal foreigners elect to depart South Africa and contest any ban issued to them from outside of the country. This involves the submission of an overstay appeal to the Department of Home Affairs (“DHA”). A number of foreigners, however, simply have too much invested in South Africa and are unwilling to depart the country for fear of incurring a ban that may or may not be overturned. V.5294
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12. Apr. 2024 Moneyweb
Home Affairs blocked from deporting ‘critical skills’ Czech executive
By its own admission, the department loses most of its court cases- the costs of which are borne by the taxpayer. Dzmitry Dzenisiuk was deployed to SA in 2014, with his wife joining him under a spousal visa. Both applied for visa extensions in February 2021. Image: Moneyweb The Department of Home Affairs (DHA) has been blocked by the Pretoria High Court from deporting a foreign worker and his wife, both of whom had been refused visa extensions, based on its failure to properly consider the documents supplied in their visa applications. This is the latest in a string of court losses notched up by Home Affairs. In the latest ruling, the high court ruled that the decision not to renew the visa of two foreign nationals must be set aside and returned to Home Affairs for reconsideration. V.5295
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12. Apr. 2024 The Citizen
SA’s tourism soars despite our visa mess
International Tourism Association’s Fred Duma said the visa backlog was now sitting at more than 95 000 applications. Tourist arrivals in South Africa hit a positive trend, with improvements in the number of visitors spanning 2021 to 2023 - despite the department of home affairs chasing away visitors who have not received visa renewals by 23 February. In a directive issued by home affairs on 21 December, tourists were advised to leave the country by the end of this month, despite admitting a backlog and long turnaround time for visas. International Tourism Association’s Fred Duma said the backlog was now sitting at more than 95 000 applications, “which clearly means no-one will get their visa by the time the minister Aaron Motsoaledi has set”. V.5296
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12. Apr. 2024 The Citizen
Private sector can help government with critical skills visa backlog
A lack of critical skills is holding back the South African economy but the problem is not being solved fast enough. The private sector is willing to help government with the visa backlog to ensure that people with critical skills can start working in the country to help grow the economy. Busi Mavuso, CEO of Business Leadership South Africa (BLSA), says in her weekly newsletter the Department of Home Affairs has a backlog of 74 000 applications for all kinds of visas according to an official quoted by Bloomberg last month. Many of those are in the scarce skills category and the backlog exists despite concerted efforts by government led by the Operation Vulindlela programme to drive implementation of policy that will substantially improve access to scarce skills visas. V.5297
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10. Apr. 2024 timeslive
New regulations make it easier for foreigners to work in SA: Motsoaledi
The Trusted Employer Scheme allows employers to more easily get visas Home affairs minister Aaron Motsoaledi says the remote work visa is for people who are employed in other countries but want to perform that work remotely while staying in South Africa. File photo. Image: Trevor Samson Amendments to immigration regulations are important to make it easier for foreigners to obtain visas for tourism, business and work, and this will in turn promote investment in South Africa, said home affairs minister Aaron Motsoaledi on Tuesday. He made this remark during a media briefing in which he outlined proposed amendments to the regulations. V.5289
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10. Apr. 2024 BusinessDay
Motsoaledi to redo work visa rules after ‘ill-advised’ premature gazetting
The home affairs minister says he will regazette the regulations next week and change some clauses that have caused concern Home affairs minister Aaron Motsoaledi will withdraw the new work visa regulations he gazetted on March 28, saying he was “ill-advised” to gazette them the day before the deadline for public comments on the draft version. This comes after a meeting at Nedlac last week in which questions were raised about the process and demands were made that the regulations be withdrawn V.5290
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10. Apr. 2024 The Citizen
Changes are needed in spousal visa protocols, Motsoaledi
Home Affairs Minister Dr Aaron Motsoaledi also discussed how small businesses can now make use of the new start-up visas for staff. Home Affairs Minister Dr Aaron Motsoaledi has highlighted a need to look at reworking spousal visa protocols after they contributed to a backlog at the department more so than any other visa category. Speaking to media on amended immigration regulations on Tuesday, Motsoaledi and other officials also spent time explaining how businesses particularly small businesses can benefit from new visa schemes. V.5291
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10. Apr. 2024 Times Lives
Vat remains a challenge for small businesses in tourism sector
The industry is ‘dominated by very small companies’ that cannot afford expensive tax consulting or accounting systems needed to cope with the complexities. Uncertainty around the value-added tax (Vat) treatment on services offered to foreign tour operators or foreign travellers continues to plague the local tourism industry. Inconsistencies in the approach adopted by the South African Revenue Service (Sars) and an onerous administrative burden on particularly smaller companies are making South Africa uncompetitive compared to the rest of the world.The South African Tourism Services Association (Satsa) unpacked the practical consequences of the Vat complexities for inbound operators and the implications of a tax court decision in the so-called Ken case during a recent webinar. V.5292
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10. Apr. 2024 IOL
Home Affairs visa backlog ballooning due to increase in notarial contracts
Motsoaledi was speaking at a media briefing in Hatfield, Pretoria, yesterday on the amended immigration regulations, over which he said there seemed to be some misunderstanding.He said as a result of the confusion, the department would be withdrawing the gazetted amendments to clear up the misconceptions and re-gazette them as early as next week.The minister admitted that his department was experiencing a backlog surrounding dependants, spouses and relatives’ visas being sought by foreign nationals who had been approved to come into the country after successfully obtaining employment. V.5293
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09. Apr. 2024 Business Day
Long-delayed amendments to Immigration Act tabled
The Immigration Amendment Bill gives effect to a 2017 judgment of the Constitutional Court The department of home affairs has tabled the Immigration Amendment Bill to give effect to two Constitutional Court judgments related to the rights of illegal foreigners. One of the judgments dates back to 2017 and in the meantime the department of home affairs having failed to amend the principal act within the two years given by the court has been implementing the remedies laid down in the judgment. With parliament nearing the end of its term, there is no time for the bill to be processed before then, so it will have to be held over for the next parliament to deal with. The bill provides that an arrested foreigner must be informed of their rights in a language they understand on arrest or immediately thereafter. These rights include the right to be notified in writing of the deportation decision, the right to appeal such a decision and the right to make representations to a court. V.5286
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09. Apr. 2024 IOL
Court rules against dad daughter to spend holidays in America with mom and new husband
A Pretoria man, who didn’t want his 13-year-old daughter to travel with her mother and new husband, was informed that his consent was not necessary for the daughter to travel to America. The mother wished to travel to America with her daughter from March 18, to April 7. Going on the trip means the daughter will miss five days of school, a school netball tournament, and the North Gauteng netball trials. In addition, she will also miss extra-mural activities like netball, tennis and horse-riding lessons. Her father said he was concerned that their daughter will miss all these activities, especially the netball tournament. He refused to sign a consent form that would allow her to travel to the US, adding that he was acting in the best interest of the child. V.5287
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09. Apr. 2024 Moneyweb
New visa regulations spark hope for remote workers in SA
There has been another positive stride forward for policy reform in the implementation of new visa regulations that will fundamentally alter the way work visas are provided in South Africa. The digital nomad visa allows foreigners to come and work remotely from South Africa if they earn more than R1 million, and the legal framework has now been put in place for a point-based system to replace the critical skills list. The criteria for the points system are due to be published by the end of April. Other changes include easing the requirements for police clearance certificates and other documents. V.5288
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05. Apr. 2024 Mail Guardian
Zimbabweans complain of Home incompetence
With the government determined to scrap the Zimbabwe Exemption Permit (ZEP), permit holders were told they must apply for waivers and seek alternative visas if they wish to remain in South Africa legally. A waiver allows ZEP holders, many of whom have been employed for years in South Africa, to continue in their jobs without having to go through an immigration process from scratch with the Department of Labour, for instance proving that the job was advertised and no South African applicant applied or was qualified for the position. Successful waiver applicants then apply for a general work visa. V.5282
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05. Apr. 2024 Businesstech
Why it takes 2 years to get some visas in South Africa
The Department of Home Affairs says that some spousal or relative visa applications take up to two years to process because of the documentation and claims that need to be verified. Responding to a written parliamentary Q&A this past week, Home Affairs minister Aaron Motsoaledi said that this is the current challenge being addressed by the department’s ‘Backlog Eradication Plan’, where 117 additional officials have been pulled in from the provinces to work through applications. The department is also looking for partners in the private sector to improve and speed up the verification processes. V.5283
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05. Apr. 2024 timeslive
Home affairs to open on Saturdays in April and May
Home affairs offices will open on Saturdays for five hours from April 6 to May 25 for ID collection services, facilitation of new applications and issuing of temporary identity certificates.“We invite people who have applied for their IDs, particularly young people who are first applicants, to come to our offices to collect their documents. This initiative gives people more options to collect their enabling documents,” said deputy minister Njabulo Nzuza. V.5284
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04. Apr. 2024 Cape Business News
Record-breaking 200 000 international air arrivals in 2024 as W Cape tourism boom continues
Tourism in the Western Cape continues to grow and strengthen. I am thrilled to confirm that, according to Statistics South Africa, total international air arrivals to Cape Town International Airport between January and February 2024 surpassed the 200,000 mark and exceeded the 2019 figure of 194,058 for the same period, breaking all previous records in the last five years. And at key attractions in regions across the province, visitor numbers are up 20% year on year. This is yet more excellent news for the sector because we know that more tourist means more jobs across the province,” said Provincial Minister of Finance and Economic Opportunities, Mireille Wenger. This is according to the monthly tourism report for February 2024, compiled by the Western Cape Government’s (WCG) tourism, trade, and investment promotion agency, Wesgro V.5279
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04. Apr. 2024 The Voice
Changes for Legal Aid in South Africa
Legal Aid South Africa has revised their means test to grant more people access to legal services. The Legal Aid South Africa (Legal Aid SA) Means Test, used to determine if applicants qualify for legal aid, has been revised upwards to cater for increases in the Consumer Price Index. This will enable access to legal services to a wider group of people, Legal Aid SA said in a statement on Monday. The changes come into effect on 1 April 2024. Below is a summary of the new Means Test thresholds. Legal Aid SA considers what applicants earn, after tax, and own: V.5280
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04. Apr. 2024 Bloomberg
Zimbabwe set to announce fate of local currency after 73% plunge
The Zimbabwe dollar traded at 22 476 against the greenback, taking its losses this year to 73%, the world’s second-worst performance only after the Lebanese pound. Zimbabwe’s currency plunged to yet another record low as citizens rushed to the safety of the US dollar amid speculation an announcement from the central bank on the fate of the local unit is imminent. The Zimbabwe dollar traded at 22 476 against the greenback, taking its losses this year to 73%, the world’s second-worst performance only after the Lebanese pound. A sense of urgency has gripped the nation after authorities brought forward the start date of the new governor, John Mushayavanhu, by a month. The local media reported the move was made to announce a new currency plan that may include embracing the gold standard. V.5281
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03. Apr. 2024 Daily Maverick
Gone for good, dwindling number of South African emigrants return
Stats SA`s first migration report shows SA has lost almost a million citizens to emigration since 2000. The data also suggests claims about a ‘brain regain’ in SA are overly optimistic. Grey skies, geopolitical uncertainty, the high cost of living and the exorbitant price of biltong abroad appear not to be strong enough pull factors for South Africa. Despite cheery anecdotal claims by estate agencies, tax practitioners and international moving companies that South Africans were returning to the country of their birth in droves, Stats SA’s evidence shows that far fewer Saffas are doing so. In fact, the rising numbers of South Africans emigrating to the UK, Australia, and the US long favoured destinations for South African émigrés have helped boost those country’s populations by significant percentages. V.5274
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03. Apr. 2024 Mail Guardian
Man gets ID after 25 year wait for birth certificate
Years after Tebogo Khoza was refused an identity document, a high court judgment has restored his rights and offered hope to millions of other undocumented South Africans. As a gamekeeper in Limpopo, Tebogo Khoza’s knowledge of the land and its wildlife is key to his livelihood and safety. Tending to buffalo and impala on the reserve where he lives at the foot of the Ysterberg, Khoza feels a sense of belonging that has been denied to him for most of his life. Last year, at the age of 25, Khoza was finally issued with a birth certificate by the department of home affairs, marking the end of a 10-year battle to be recognised as a South African citizen. V.5275
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03. Apr. 2024 My Broadband
Some success for Home Affairs hiring 10,000 unemployed graduates
Some success for Home Affairs hiring 10,000 unemployed graduates Myles Illidge1 April 2024 Some success for Home Affairs hiring 10,000 unemployed graduates. The Department of Home Affairs (DHA) initiative to hire 10,000 young graduates has created almost 3,700 jobs for unemployed youths since it kicked off in August 2022, with more than 260 leaving for better opportunities. V.5276
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03. Apr. 2024 Businesstec
New Smart ID and Passport offices coming to South Africa, including more e-Visa countries
The Department of Home Affairs says it plans to extend its live-capture system for Smart IDs and Passports to five new front offices in 2024, while also adding more countries to the growing list that can apply for e-Visas. In the department’s annual performance plan for 2024/25, it noted the success of its push to modernise and boost the efficiency of Home Affairs offices in the country. V.5277
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02. Apr. 2024 Moneyweb
Attempts to exclude illegal foreigners from submitting road accident claims invalid
Four foreign nationals succeed in case against Department of Transport regulation and Road Accident Fund management directive. The minister and the fund exercised powers they don’t have, making it unnecessary for judges to deal with the ‘constitutionality arguments’ related to the case. Image: AdobeStock A Department of Transport regulation and Road Accident Fund (RAF) management directive that attempted to exclude foreigners who are illegally in South Africa from submitting claims against the RAF has been declared invalid by the High Court in Pretoria. Judge Norman Davis, with acting judges BF Mnyovu and A Kok concurring, reviewed and set aside the provisions of the substituted RAF 1 claim form issued by former minister of transport Fikile Mbalula in terms of the RAF Act and prescribed by a notice published in the Government Gazette on 4 July 2022. V.5270
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02. Apr. 2024 DA
Home Affairs wasted R147 million on failed asylum backlog project
In 2020 the Auditor General raised alarm bells when they indicated that the asylum appeal backlog would take the Department of Home Affairs (DHA) 68 years to clear. In 2021 the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR) provided the DHA with R147 million to deal with the 153 391 asylum decisions appeal backlog. The funding provided for this backlog project, like with most initiatives taken by the DHA, was wasted. Both the UNHCR and the DHA stated that the project would eliminate the backlog within 4 years. Yet, after a question posed to the Minister, the DA exposed that the DHA is failing miserably at dealing with the asylum appeal backlog and has wasted the UNHCR’s funding. V.5271
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02. Apr. 2024 The Independent
Mnangagwa Deports Chinese, Malawians
The government is deporting foreign nationals whom it says are coming into the country illegally. Part of those deported so far include hundreds of Chinese and Malawi nationals whom the authorities say are entering the country for employment. This week, Respect Gono, the chief director at the Department of Immigration, revealed that investigations have unveiled a pattern: Chinese migrants using mega projects to circumvent authorities and settle in Zimbabwe illegally. Chinese nationals were reportedly disappearing almost immediately after receiving clearance from immigration. V.5272
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02. Apr. 2024 Zimeye
Bad News For Zimbabweans As Australia Tightens Immigration Laws
By Diplomatic Correspondent, The Australian government has set forth stringent proposals to bolster its immigration laws, potentially spelling dire consequences for Zimbabwe and several other nations facing the spectre of a complete visa embargo. As reported by Australia’s Herald Sun, among the countries under scrutiny for the visa ban are Iraq, Iran, South Sudan, and Russia. This initiative coincides with a provision for a possible five-year incarceration term for asylum seekers who resist deportation following the exhaustion of all legal avenues. The bill was tabled mere weeks before the High Court was scheduled to deliberate on a case involving an Iranian individual, identified as ASF17, who adamantly refuses repatriation to his homeland due to fears of persecution based on his sexual orientation. The proposed legislation takes direct aim at nations deemed uncooperative in facilitating the return of their citizens who have been denied asylum in Australia. V.5273
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28. Mar. 2024 SA people News
SA government tackles companies hiring undocumented foreigners
Employment and Labour Minister, Thulas Nxesi has warned South African companies against hiring undocumented foreigners. Minister Thulas Nxesi of Employment and Labour (DEL) has strongly warned South African companies against hiring undocumented foreigners. THINGS TOUGHEN UP FOR UNDOCUMENTED FOREIGNERS DEL has given a stern warning to all South African companies should they employ foreigners who are undocumented they shall be fined. This comes after a Zimbabwean nation Kudakwashe Mpofu, who was working as the Chief Financial Officer (CFO) in the North West Development Cooperation while illegally in the country, appeared in the Pretoria Magistrate’s Court on Wednesday. According to IOL Nxesi’s statement follows Home Affairs Minister Aaron Motsoaledi’s call for stricter penalties on employers who knowingly employ undocumented foreigners, just a month ago. V.5263
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28. Mar. 2024 EWN
Govt to crack down on unaccompanied children entering SA through borders
The Border Management Authority wants Zimbabwean children entering South Africa by themselves to carry their passports. A South African National Defence Force (SANDF) soldier walks along the border fence that separates South Africa and Zimbabwe, near the Beitbridge border post, near Musina, on January 8, 2021. Picture: Guillem Sartorio/AFP JOHANNESBURG - The Department of Social Development and the Border Management Authority (BMA) say they will crack down on the influx of unaccompanied children entering the country through the Beitbridge and Grobler`s Bridge borders. This follows a meeting with Zimbabwean authorities who discussed how operations would be intensified to put a stop to the practice during the Easter long weekend. Border management said Zimbabwean children entering South Africa by themselves must carry their passports. V.5264
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28. Mar. 2024 IOL
Scores of undocumented foreigners deported after daring escape
The department of Home Affairs has deported thousands of undocumented foreign nationals after a daring escape that took place at the Lindela Repatriation Centre in Krugersdorp last week. The department confirmed last week that it would also be investigating an escape of 69 undocumented foreigners, and look into a nearly R60 million contract it pays annually to the security company that was on duty when the escape took place. V.5265
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28. Mar. 2024 The Mercury
Questions over Home Affairs’ high customer satisfaction statistics
Home Affairs Minister Aaron Motsoaledi outlined the customer satisfaction statistics in his response to a recent parliamentary question from Cope president Mosiuoa Lekota regarding the progress made in resolving the myriad issues faced by clients. While a 2022/2023 Home Affairs survey showed generally high satisfaction scores from clients for the service they received at the department’s offices, opposition parties have said the statistics are misleading. Home Affairs Minister Aaron Motsoaledi outlined the customer satisfaction statistics in his response to a recent parliamentary question from Cope president Mosiuoa Lekota regarding the progress made in resolving the myriad issues faced by clients. “Customer satisfaction score for each service channel was generally high with scores above 70%. However, harbours and airports had the highest satisfaction score of over 90% whereas refugee centres had the lowest score of 73%,” the minister said. V.5266
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26. Mar. 2024 Moneyweb
Home Affairs blocked from deporting ‘critical skills’ Czech executive
Dzmitry Dzenisiuk was deployed to SA in 2014, with his wife joining him under a spousal visa. Both applied for visa extensions in February 2021. Image: Moneyweb The Department of Home Affairs (DHA) has been blocked by the Pretoria High Court from deporting a foreign worker and his wife, both of whom had been refused visa extensions, based on its failure to properly consider the documents supplied in their visa applications. This is the latest in a string of court losses notched up by Home Affairs. In the latest ruling, the high court ruled that the decision not to renew the visa of two foreign nationals must be set aside and returned to Home Affairs for reconsideration. V.5260
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26. Mar. 2024 News24
Students in limbo as higher education dept deregisters Damelin, Lyceum College and CityVarsity
Damelin, CityVarsity, Icesa City Campus and Lyceum College are reportedly being shut down after failing to submit their financial statements for 2021 and 2022. • The department of higher education has cancelled the registrations of Damelin, CityVarsity, Icesa City Campus and Lyceum College. • The announcement was made in the Government Gazette on Friday. • The department`s action follows the failure by the owner of the colleges, Educor, to submit audited financial statements for the 2021 and 2022 annual reports. The fate of hundreds of thousands of students registered with Damelin, CityVarsity, Icesa City Campus and Lyceum College hang in the balance after the institutions` registrations were cancelled by the department of higher education. V.5261
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25. Mar. 2024 Sunday World
Immigrants not to blame for high crime, graft in SA, state witness
The high levels of crime, unemployment, and poor public healthcare in South Africa are not caused by immigrants, but by the government’s poor governance and corruption. The blaming and scapegoating of immigrants for South Africa’s socio-economic problems arises primarily because of the failure of government policy. Also blamed is implementation, mismanagement, and corruption. This in all the education, health, and housing provisions. V.5253
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25. Mar. 2024 Businesstech
South Africans love Home Affairs for its effectiveness, says Motsoaledi
Home Affairs Minister says his department is “generally praised for its effectiveness”, and the data collected by the department is evidence of this. In a recent parliamentary Q&A, the Minister of Home Affairs, Aaron Motsoaledi, was asked whether his department had solved the problem of long queues and denial of service on reaching the counter after a long time in the queue. The question also included an inquiry into his findings on citizen satisfaction with the service provided by his department. In response, Motsoaledi said customer satisfaction and waiting times are constantly monitored across all DHA branches and noted the average waiting time inside an office is reasonably quick, albeit with some caveats. V.5257
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25. Mar. 2024 Businesstec
New immigration laws for South Africa coming, five years too late
The Department of Home Affairs plans to introduce new amendments to South Africa’s immigration laws missing a Constitutional Court deadline by five years. In 2017, Lawyers for Human Rights took the Minister of Home Affairs and others to court over the treatment of detained foreign nationals. The Constitutional Court ruled that sections 34(1)(b) and (d) of the Immigration Act of 2002 were invalid and unconstitutional. V.5258
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25. Mar. 2024 Euronews
Spain’s digital nomad visa one year on: How are remote workers and locals getting along?
Spain introduced its digital nomad visa last year. Here`s how it`s going so far. A year after Spain launched a special digital nomad visa to encourage foreign business talent to move to the country, it has met with muted success. Some 300 foreign nationals were granted the visa up until 31 December 2023, the Spanish Foreign Ministry said, but it did not disclose their nationalities. The relatively small number may relate to the problems encountered by some applicants keen to make a new life under the Iberian sun. Some said it was hard to fulfil all the visa’s demands like proving they pay social security in their own country. Others complained of the endless paperwork involved in the process. Euronews Travel spoke to visa experts, applicants and locals to find out more. How easy is it to get a digital nomad visa in Spain? V.5259
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22. Mar. 2024 bbc news
Canada to set first ever cap on temporary residents
Canada is planning to set limits on the number of temporary residents it lets in for the first time in its history. Immigration minister Marc Miller said on Thursday that the number will be reduced over the next three years, with the first cap to be set in September. It will apply to international students, as well as foreign workers and asylum claimants. The minister has previously spoken about revising immigration targets due to an affordability and housing crisis. In his announcement, Mr Miller said that Canada plans to reduce the number of temporary residents to 5% of the population, down from the current 6.2%. V.5254
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22. Mar. 2024 Daily Maverick
Motsoaledi should be held accountable for visa fiasco, not encouraging job creation,Fedhasa
The hospitality industry association says Home Affairs fails to recognise the importance of tourism in job creation and economic growth, which is why it keeps scoring own goals by actively discouraging tourists, especially from the world’s two biggest and fastest growing outbound markets India and China our original BRICS partners. The Department of Home Affairs needs to recognise the importance of tourism in job creation and economic growth and how the uproar about the short-term visa renewal, which it caused, has undermined South Africa’s economy, says Rosemary Anderson, the national chair of the hospitality industry body Fedhasa. V.5255
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22. Mar. 2024 Tourism Update
Visas: Call for structured engagement with Home Affairs
The ability to facilitate convenient and efficient visa processing for international visitors is critical to growing South Africa`s tourism economy and industry associations are urgently calling for structured engagement between the tourism industry and the Department of Home Affairs. “Such a dialogue would enable us to convey the on-the-ground frustrations faced by our international visitors and explore the ongoing and planned improvements to the eVisa technology that the Minister (of Home Affairs, Aaron Motsoaledi) mentioned,” said David Frost, CEO of the inbound industry association, SATSA. V.5256
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20. Mar. 2024 The Star
Motsoaledi vows to capture ‘crocodiles’ masquerading with fraudulent immigration documentsments
Minister of Home Affairs vows to investigate flaws allowing crocodiles into the country with fraudulent documents Home Affairs Minister Aaron Motsoaledi says the days of “crocodiles” lingering in the country with fraudulent documents are numbered as his department vows to work hand in hand with specialist investigative authorities. The minister made the comments during a briefing in Pretoria earlier today, where he clarified reports of the negative impact on the tourism sector following the leak of an internal communication circular released by his department last year. V.5245
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20. Mar. 2024 The Mercury
Call to tourists to come forward over ‘leaked’ visa notice, says Home Affairs minister
Home Affairs Aaron Motsoaledi has called on tourists who have been declared “undesirable” for overstaying their 90-day visit despite applying for an extension, to come forward for assistance. Minister of Home Affairs Aaron Motsoaledi has called on tourists who have been declared “undesirable” for overstaying their 90-day visit despite applying for an extension, to come forward for assistance. Motsoaledi said if a tourist has applied for a 90-day extension and not yet received a response, the receipt issued served as an extension. The minister was speaking at a briefing on Sunday to clarify a “leaked” internal circular sent to the Border Management Authority (BMA) which called on seasonal visitors who have overstayed their visit to return to their countries. V.5251
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20. Mar. 2024 Travel Daily News
FEDHASA responds to South Africa’s Home Affairs Minister’s statement on visas and tourism
Creating a more flexible and welcoming visa environment, especially for tourists from countries with a strong track record of compliance and economic contribution, could be transformative for the sector says FEDHASA. JOHANNESBURG FEDHASA acknowledges Home Affairs Minister AaronMotsoaledi‘s statement regarding the internal circular issued on 21 December 2023. While the Minister regards the ensuing media storm and the distress among the tourism sector as unintended consequences of an internal document, the reality presents a starkly different picture. The experiences shared globally by “Swallows” tourists who migrate seasonally in search of warmer climates attest to a more distressing outcome. These narratives, far from being isolated, have reverberated through international communities, painting South Africa as a destination fraught with visa challenges. V.5252
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19. Mar. 2024 iol
DHA loses another fight over ID blocking
The Department of Home Affairs (DHA) has lost another battle over blocking South African IDs arbitrarily after the South Gauteng High Court ordered the department to unblock the identity numbers belonging to a man residing in Eikenhoff, south of Johannesburg. The 42-year-old said it had affected his life as the banks suspended his accounts into which his salary was deposited. The blocking of IDs began in May 2012 when the department started a campaign to address the issue of duplicate IDs on the National Population Register. V.5248
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19. Mar. 2024 Daily Maverick
ZEP saga, Helen Suzman Foundation takes on Home Affairs minister in ConCourt
The Helen Suzman Foundation (HSF) has gone to court to oppose a bid by Home Affairs Minister Aaron Motsoaledi to appeal against a ruling that he may not terminate the Zimbabwean Exemption Permit (ZEP) programme. The Foundation has filed papers in the Constitutional Court opposing an application by the Minister for leave to appeal against a Pretoria high court ruling which found his decision to be unlawful and unconstitutional. The Foundation says the unlawfulness of Motsoaledi’s decision to stop the ZEP had been determined on undisputed “common cause” facts which simply cannot be appealed. V.5249
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19. Mar. 2024 The Citizen
Home Affairs would gain nothing by destroying tourism industry, Motsoaledi on visa circular outrage
Home Affairs Minister Aaron Motsoaledi says claims that tourists were being chased away from South Africa due to expired visa documents are misleading. Motsoaledi on Sunday held a media briefing in Pretoria regarding immigration related matters. In particular, the minister spoke on the circular that was issued by his department in December 2023. The circular sparked public outrage, with the Department of Home Affairs being accused of risking the collapse the tourism industry. V.5250
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18. Mar. 2024 The South African
LATEST on applying for South African smart ID card in 2024
Mzansi’s youth population is growing rapidly and soon all 16-year olds must possess a South African smart ID card. According to Worldometer, South Africa is home to just over 60-million people (as of June 2023). Roughly 20 million of these are younger than 16-years of age and will need a South African smart ID card. Mzansi’s youth population is growing rapidly and soon all 16-year olds must possess a South African smart ID card. According to Worldometer, South Africa is home to just over 60-million people (as of June 2023). Roughly 20 million of these are younger than 16-years of age and will need a South African smart ID card. V.5244
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18. Mar. 2024 Travel News
What is a 5-year multiple-entry Schengen visa all about; who can get it?
The 5-year multiple-entry Schengen visa, obtainable from India, allows travel to any Schengen country. Eligibility extends to individuals who have previously held and lawfully utilised a multiple-entry visa valid for at least two A Schengen visa serves as a travel permit enabling holders to freely visit and traverse the Schengen Area, comprising 27 European countries where internal border controls have been abolished. This visa facilitates entry, exit, and movement between member states without the need for passport checks at their shared borders. Simplifying travel across the Schengen Area, it encompasses renowned destinations like France, Germany, Italy, Spain, among others. V.5246
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18. Mar. 2024 Travel News
Reasons why your US visa can get rejected
The US visa application process requires attention to detail. Any mistakes or omissions in the application form can lead to delays or complete rejection. It’s important to go through the visa form carefully, understand each question. Seeking a visa for entry into the United States marks a substantial stride in achieving personal, professional, or educational goals. While it`s widely understood that the US visa application procedure is lengthy, it`s crucial to emphasise the necessity for meticulous attention to detail and strict adherence to outlined criteria. These measures are essential for securing a favourable result. V.5247
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15. Mar. 2024 The Star
Good news for South Africa’s visa backlog with a catch
Home Affairs Minister Aaron Motsoaledi says the only remaining backlog in visa applications in South Africa is the one relating to spousal and relative visas and the numbers have reduced significantly. Responding to a parliamentary Q&A this past week, the minister said the backlog is now just over 40,000, which is around half of the backlog numbers reported at the end of last year. Despite the apparent improvement, however, there are still concerns over visa turnaround times, which can still take eight months to process. V.5239
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15. Mar. 2024 News24
Its not just you, huge internet outage hits South Africa as multiple undersea cables snap
A massive internet outage hit South Africa on Thursday, with internet users throughout the country reporting slow speeds or unresponsive pages. A Vodacom spokesperson told News24 that multiple subsea cable failures between South Africa and Europe were impacting network providers, including Vodacom. `This means that certain customers are currently experiencing intermittent connectivity issues,` the spokesperson said. Network monitoring site Downdetector showed a huge increase in outage reports across many of the biggest network platforms in the country, starting from around 12:30. V.5240
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15. Mar. 2024 Businesstec
South Africa, major internet outage explained
Damage to at least three subsea cables off the west coast of Africa is disrupting internet services across the continent. The West Africa Cable System, MainOne and ACE sea cables arteries for telecommunications data were all affected on Thursday (14 March), triggering outages and connectivity issues for mobile operators and internet service providers, according to data from internet analysis firms, including NetBlocks, Kentik and Cloudflare. The precise cause of the cable faults has not yet been determined V.5241
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14. Mar. 2024 Cape Times
Asylum-seeking couple ‘not prohibited persons’ as high court vindicates them
A couple from the Democratic Republic of Congo are no longer listed as “prohibited persons” after they were victorious in their bid at the Western Cape High Court. A couple from the Democratic Republic of Congo are no longer listed as “prohibited persons” after they were victorious in their bid at the Western Cape High Court. The couple were accused of having obtained visas fraudulently after applying for temporary asylum seeker and work permits in 2016. That year in April, the wife had applied for the permit which authorised her to work in South Africa. She then obtained employment and thereafter obtained a work visa through an agent recommended by work colleagues. V.5237
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14. Mar. 2024 Daily Maverick
Government mute on tourist bannings, ignores urgent request for official statement
The Western Cape’s minister of finance and economic opportunities, Mireille Wenger, wrote to Home Affairs Minister Aaron Motsoaledi two weeks ago requesting an official position on visa extensions. This was after immigration officers began banning tourists and even medical professionals from SA. It’s been two weeks since the Western Cape’s department of finance and economic opportunities wrote to Home Affairs Minister Aaron Motsoaledi about tourist bannings, and there’s been no response to provincial minister Mireille Wenger’s urgent request for an updated directive on short-term visa extensions. V.5238
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12. Mar. 2024 News24
8-year battle with Home Affairs over missing `a` results in R4 000 bribe demand
A person purporting to be a Home Affairs official asked for a bribe from an applicant seeking to add an `a` on his permanent residency permit. • Ibrahim Sissoko hired a private immigration consultant to help him with an application to rectify a basic mistake on his permanent residency permit. • After the consultant sent emails to senior Department of Home Affairs officials about the incident, Sissoko received text messages from a person purporting to be an official. • The alleged official demanded a bribe to help him with his application. Ibrahim Sissoko`s eight-year battle to get the Department of Home Affairs to give him an extra `a` in his middle name resulted in a person purporting to be a department official demanding a bribe of R4 000. V.5234
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12. Mar. 2024 News24
India to enact non-Muslims-only citizenship law
• a law that offers citizenship to immigrants from selected countries, as long as they are not Muslim. • Some Indian Muslims fear the law is a precursor to denying them citizenship. • India says Muslim immigrants don`t need protection. India`s interior ministry said Monday it was enacting a citizenship law that critics say discriminates against Muslims, just weeks before the world`s most populous country heads into a general election. While the law was passed in December 2019, its implementation was delayed after widespread protests and deadly violence erupted in which more than 100 people were reported to have been killed. V.5235
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11. Mar. 2024 Africa school
Student Accommodation 101: 5 Great Tips for International Students
Student accommodation is one important thing to consider while planning to study abroad. Just as it is important to focus on visa, admission, and travel expenses, ample consideration should also be given to accommodation. Accommodation availability will vary from country to country depending on your study destination, however, there are important things to note and useful tips to apply to make the journey easier. How to choose the right study abroad destination Before you start thinking of and planning for accommodation, it is important to first choose a study abroad destination as this will in turn influence your accommodation choices. In some countries, the cost of living is on the high side. Additionally, the cost of living in various parts of the country will also differ and this will in turn affect the cost of accommodation. So, to properly plan for your accommodation as an aspiring international student, you must choose the right study abroad destination that fits you and your budget. V.5227
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11. Mar. 2024 After school africa
Ask these vital questions before STARTING your study abroad journey.
Planning to study abroad but uncertain about the steps to take? Then ensure you answer these questions to gain clarity on the demands of your journey before you begin. In recent times, there has been a surge in the number of people who desire to go abroad first to study, and then to relocate. However, making impulsive decisions without being properly informed can be catastrophic as many have encountered different difficulties. Hence, the importance of properly planning before you begin your study abroad journey. We’ve outlined and explained a list of important questions you shouldn’t ignore before planning your study abroad journey in this article. Vital Questions to ask before starting your study abroad journey. V.5228
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11. Mar. 2024 Cape Times
Home Affairs implements court order on ‘ID blocking’
Home Affairs Minister Aaron Motsoaledi said his department was implementing the court order that found its practice of “ID blocking” without following a fair procedure was unconstitutional and invalid. In January, the court declared that the placing of markers by the Department of Home Affairs against identity numbers or identity documents resulting in the blocking of identity numbers in the absence of fair administrative process as unjust and irregular administrative action that is inconsistent with the Constitution and invalid. The department was taken to court by Phindile Mazibuko and two Lawyers for Human Rights and LegalWise South Africa with the Children’s Institute as an amicus curiae. DA MP Angel Khanyile wrote to Motsoaledi asking whether his department had put a timeline in place to comply with the judgment. V.5229
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11. Mar. 2024 ECR
Foreign nationals, Home Affairs official to be sentenced for identity fraud
Two Congolese nationals who assumed the identities of South African citizens are due to be sentenced in the Durban Magistrate`s Court on Friday. They were found guilty of identity fraud and contravening immigration laws. Tausi and John Kahwere were part of a group of foreign nationals arrested by the Hawks. Two men from Bangladesh, Morshed Alam and Saiful Sujon, and South African Oliver Hurriparsad will be sentenced in May. V.5230
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08. Mar. 2024 Daily Maverick
Determined Home Affairs minister drags ZEP battle to Constitutional Court
Minister of Home Affairs Aaron Motsoaledi has turned to the Constitutional Court in his bid to appeal against a Pretoria High Court judgment that found the process he used to end the Zimbabwean Exemption Permit programme was neither fair nor lawful. The high court ruled against the minister and he failed in his appeal to the Supreme Court of Appeal. Home Affairs Minister Aaron Motsoaledi is continuing with his court battles to scrap the Zimbabwean Exemption Permit (ZEP) programme. In June 2023, the Pretoria high court ruled that the termination of the ZEP had been unlawful and unconstitutional. V.5226
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07. Mar. 2024 The Citizen
We don’t want officials walking free, Home Affairs deputy minister asks for patience as visa fraud probe continues
Parliament has been urged to be patient as into visa and permit fraud at the Department of Home Affairs unfold. Officials from the department appeared before Parliament’s Portfolio Committee on Home Affairs on Tuesday to provide an update about the progress made on the Lubisi report’s recommendations. V.5224
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07. Mar. 2024 The Citizen
SA needs to manage migrants better, That requires cleaning up Home Affairs
Legal grievances against the South African Department of Home Affairs, including contempt of court cases, are depressingly common. Too frequently the minister has to apologise to a court, or to ask for more time, on behalf of the department.Most of the court cases involve the operations of the department regarding visas and permits for foreign visitors, immigrants and prospective refugees. V.5225
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06. Mar. 2024 Daily Maverick
Endless nightmare for ‘stateless’ mother after Home Affairs ID crackdown puts her life in limbo
Thousands of people cannot access healthcare or education after Home Affairs decided in 2012 to block their ‘suspicious’ identity documents. In 2012, the Department of Home Affairs embarked on a mass drive to block South African identity documents in a bid to address fraud and misrepresentation, which had resulted in duplicate IDs on the National Population Register. What initially started as 29,000 IDs having markers placed against them quickly escalated to more than one million by 2020. It resulted in people like Khanyi Mkhwanazi having their dignity and citizenship stripped from them, propelling them into statelessness. “What is happening is so unfair. My father was a South African and I am married to a South African, but now Home Affairs is telling me that I am an illegal immigrant,” Mkhwanazi said in an emotional interview. V.5218
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06. Mar. 2024 EWN
Some Chinese nationals use fake addresses in visa applications, portfolio committee hears
Home Affairs Minister Aaron Motsoaledi said the visa corruption was sophisticated. • According to Home Affairs Minister Aaron Motsoaledi, sophisticated officials are behind visa corruption. • Several irregularities were uncovered with the issuing of visas to Chinese nationals. • So far, 28 matters have been referred to the Hawks for further investigation and 94 matters are being considered for possible referral. Investigations into violations of visa regulations has found that more than 3 000 Chinese nationals applied for South African visas and permits from a `nodal point`, and nearly 500 came from applicants who used the same address. On top of this, another 477 applications came from Chinese nationals who applied for visas using addresses that were vacant (vacant erven), and 75 came from those who listed addresses that did not exist. V.5219
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06. Mar. 2024 IOL
Home Affairs Minister Implements Court Order on `ID Blocking`
In January, the court declared that the placing of markers by the Department of Home Affairs against identity numbers or identity documents resulting in the blocking of identity numbers in the absence of fair administrative process as unjust and irregular administrative action that is inconsistent with the Constitution and invalid. The department was taken to court by Phindile Mazibuko and two Lawyers for Human Rights and LegalWise South Africa with the Children’s Institute as an amicus curiae. V.5220
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06. Mar. 2024 iol
Home Affairs Minister Aaron Motsoaledi on Tuesday ruled out the arbitrary freezing of fraudulent visas and permits issued by his department’s officials to foreign nationals without following due processes.
Motsoaledi said when his department encountered fraudulent documents, those involved in fraudulent activities tried to fight back. “They claim they are not the ones who committed fraud and would claim to have been helped by an immigration agent and say they were not aware the agent practised fraud, so we are forced to investigate,” he said. Motsoaledi said he wished he could just freeze the affected visas. V.5221
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06. Mar. 2024 IOL
Multidisciplinary team to probe irregularities in issuing of visas and permits
This comes after the ministerial review committee found a host of irregularities in the issuance of permanent residence permits, business visas, corporate visas, critical skills visas, study visas, retired persons visas and citizenship by naturalisation between October 2004 and December 2020. Home Affairs Minister Aaron Motsoaledi said the multidisciplinary task team would consist of experienced senior counsels, forensic investigators, data analysts and other related skills. V.5222
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06. Mar. 2024 EWN
Home Affairs reports over 300,000 cases of fraudulent visas and permits
The Home Affairs Department is now preparing to hand over at least 94 individuals for investigation by the Hawks, on top of 28 others already handed over to the Directorate for Priority Crime Investigations.CAPE TOWN, The Home Affairs Department says it has identified more than 300,000 cases related to the fraudulent issuing of visas and permits. It is now preparing to hand over at least 94 individuals for investigation by the Hawks, on top of 28 others already handed over to the Directorate for Priority Crime Investigations. Home Affairs has been on a year-long audit of its files following an independent investigation of visa corruption in the department dating back 20 years, now known as the Lubisi Report.The department was before Parliament on Tuesday to provide a status update.The number of irregular visa and permit transactions picked up by the Home Affairs Department in the past year is 307,178. V.5223
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04. Mar. 2024 Daily friend
What can we learn from returning expats?
As South Africa draws closer to the general elections on May 29th, an interesting development that has been noted by real estate and tax professionals in this country and was noted by The Times of London on 18 February, is the returning of expats to South Africa from Britain and mainland Europe. This is, as the article notes, despite the multiple challenges of loadshedding, high crime and a severely underperforming economy. V.5214
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04. Mar. 2024 News24
Namibian Supreme Court endorses Gupta advocates` immigration fraud convictions
Senior counsel Mike Hellens and Dawie Joubert who routinely act for the Gupta family were arrested by Namibian authorities for alleged immigration violations in November 2019 and pleaded guilty hours after they were detained. • They later took their arrest and conviction on review in the Namibian High Court in Windhoek, which found the immigration official who detained them to have done so based on a `very serious and dangerous misreading of the law`. • The Namibian government has now successfully appealed that ruling, after the Namibian Supreme Court dismissed a separate application by Hellens and Joubert to appeal their convictions. Senior counsel Mike Hellens has slammed a Namibian Supreme Court ruling that dismissed his and his colleague Dawie Joubert`s claims they were unlawfully coerced into pleading guilty to immigration fraud as `a shocking failure of justice`. V.5215
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04. Mar. 2024 News24
UK couple`s visa renewal query, directed to Motsoaledi`s office, leads to alleged R60k bribe demand
A British couple living in South Africa applied for the renewal of their retirement visas and 10 days later they were allegedly asked for a R60 000 bribe. (Fani Mahuntsi/Gallo Images) • A British couple living in South Africa applied for the renewal of their retirement visas in December 2022. • After waiting for months for a response to their application, they emailed a private secretary in the minister`s office whose address they found on the Department of Home Affairs website. • Twelve minutes later, they received an email from another home affairs official and 10 days later they were allegedly asked for a R60 000 bribe. V.5216
