Extension in processing of visa applications and outcomes on waiver applications in respect of foreign nationals.
Please note this is regarding pending VISA and Waiver applications (not ZEP’s).
In an attempt to address the backlog in processing visa applications and outcomes on waiver applications, the Department of Home Affairs in South Africa has extended the below temporary measures with immediate effect.
Waiver applications: Applicants with waiver applications pending have been granted a blanket temporary extension until 31 March 2023. This is to allow time for the Department of Home Affairs to process the pending applications, and for the applicants to be able to collect their outcomes and submit their relevant visa applications. Applicants who wish to abandon their waiver applications and depart South Africa will be able to do so on or before 31 March 2023 without being declared undesirable.
Visa applications: Applicants with pending visa applications have been granted a blanket temporary extension on their current visa status and conditions until 31 March 2023. Applicants who wish to abandon their visa applications and depart South Africa will be able to do so on or before 31 March 2023 without being declared undesirable. Applicants who originate from countries that are exempt from port of entry requirements, have pending long-term visa applications, and wish to travel, may travel but will be required to present their Visa Facilitation Services (VFS) receipts on arrival back at the port of entry for admission into South Africa. Those applicants that are from countries that are visa restricted will require a port of entry visa as well as the VFS receipts on arrival back at the port of entry for admission into South Africa.
The good news is that under the blanket extension, you can travel out of South Africa without being declared undesirable. In summary upon return to South Africa, one of the following would apply to assure entry into the country:
- Visa applicants from visa-exempt countries: Present your VFS receipt at the port of entry for admission into South Africa
- Visa applicants from countries that are visa restricted: You must apply for and be issued a visitor’s visa before returning to South Africa
- Applicants whose visa waiver applications are still pending: If you’re still waiting on the outcome of your visa waiver application, your existing visa is now valid until 31 March 2023.
The above temporary measures apply only to foreign nationals who have been legally admitted into South Africa. Any further extension, modification, or amendments to the terms od these concessions will be communicated in writing.
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