In his first official act as the newly appointed Minister of Home Affairs, Leon Schreiber, just one day after being sworn in, has extended the temporary concession for foreign nationals awaiting the outcomes of their visa, waiver, and appeal applications.
On July 4, 2024, the Department of Home Affairs confirmed that long-term visa holders in South Africa have been granted legal permission to remain in the Republic of South Africa until 31 December 2024. This decision is communicated 4 days after the expiration of the previously granted extension.
The delay in the announcement had left many in a panicked state, as they feared that they would be required to depart the Republic of South Africa in the absence of a concession granting them extended status.
Minister Schreiber has committed to avoid a repeat of the current situation that has seen the previous concession expire prior to the extension being announced. The Minister has undertaken that any further extension, modification or amendment to the terms of these concessions will be communicated in writing prior to the new expiry date of 31 December 2024.
The Directive issued by the Department of Home Affairs introduces the below measures with immediate effect:
