Passport with visa stamps on a laptop keyboard, next to a 'VISA online' key and a wooden stamp, symbolizing online travel.

Home Affairs almost there with clearing the visa backlog, but not quite

The Department of Home Affairs (DHA) achieved remarkable results in the last six months with their initiative to clear the visa application backlog, however; the Minister has once again had to extend the concession period for foreign nationals who are awaiting the outcome of their applications to ensure they are able to remain in South […]

A Nigerian passport featuring the ECOWAS emblem resting on Saudi Riyal banknotes on a wooden surface.

Ramaphosa clarifies: Nigerians still need a passport when applying for a visa to visit SA

Nigerian nationals who wish to visit South Africa, still need a passport when applying for a visa, but applicants would be allowed to submit a certified copy with their applications instead of the original passport.

Passports on a map of Zimbabwe, highlighting Victoria Falls, Gweru, Bulawayo, and Lake Kariba.

Welcome reprieve for ZEP holders at the eleventh hour

Holders of Zimbabwean Exemption Permits (ZEP) which was due to expire today, have been granted reprieve to stay in South Africa legally for another year without fear of arrest, deportation or detentions. This welcome news came at the eleventh hour for ZEP holders who did not apply in time for the renewal of their ZEPs […]

Hourglass with blue sand on a laptop keyboard, with a blurred calendar displayed on the screen in the background.

Another deadline stares ZEP holders in South Africa in the face

Another D-day looms this week for countless holders of a Zimbabwean Exemption Permit (ZEP) who are uncertain about their stay in South Africa. Zimbabwean nationals who have not already applied for a waiver to progress from a ZEP to a General Work visa in South Africa, only have until Friday (29 November 2024) to apply […]

Santa hat, toy airplane, and two passports on a starry dark background, symbolizing festive holiday travel.

DHA visa backlog 80% cleared, so it should not steal your Xmas cheer

Uncertainty still looms about whether the concession for foreign nationals will be extended beyond 31 December 2024 to safeguard them from being erroneously declared undesirable while they await their visa application outcomes, but the good news is those affected can still travel abroad to visit loved ones this Festive Season and re-enter South Africa legally […]

Black woman in glasses and white shirt typing on a laptop in a high-tech environment with glowing screens.

Engineers, ICT professionals top the list of skills businesses struggle to recruit

Engineers and ICT professionals are the most in-demand skills that large corporates and multinational employers struggle to recruit for smooth business operations in South Africa, the latest Critical Skills Survey Report by Xpatweb shows.

Man smiling, pointing at a passport and boarding pass with 'A22 3:15' visible, against a subtle world map background.

Government, private sector collaboration will ensure refined Critical Skills List to attract highly skilled foreigners

Government departments responsible for updating the national Critical Skills List to attract highly skilled foreign professionals to South Africa, is working closely with business and the private sector to ensure an even further refined list which adequately reflects the country’s employment needs.

Man with beard raises hand and speaks into microphone, wearing suit with South African flag pin - South Africa visa extension – welcome reprieve for applicants

Home Affairs issues Directive: Bringing Clarity to Thousands of Visa Applicants

Following the release of the amended Immigration Regulations on 9 October 2024, the South African Department of Home Affairs has swiftly issued Directive No. 10 of 2024, providing much-needed clarity on the practical implementation of a new points-based system for work visas. For applicants navigating South Africa’s evolving immigration landscape, this directive offers crucial guidance, […]

Red passport and map on a blue suitcase, suggesting travel preparations.

South Africa’s New Remote Work Visa and Points-Based System: A Game-Changer in Attracting Global Talent

On 9 October 2024, South Africa introduced its Third Amendment to the Immigration Regulations, modernising the system to attract global professionals. A key highlight is the new Remote Work Visa, allowing Digital Nomads to live in South Africa while remaining in the employ of foreign companies. This visa positions South Africa as the fourth African […]

Smiling Black man pushing a luggage trolley in a bright, modern airport with digital flight information displays.

South Africa Immigration Update: Points-Based System and Remote Work Visa Introduced

The Minister of Home Affairs, Dr. Leon Schreiber on 9 October 2024 published new Immigration Regulations pertaining to the following – Points-Based System for Critical Skills and General Work Visa The Remote Work Visa Partial waiver for SAQA requirement Ministerial Directive for Port of Entry Visas