In a move designed to alleviate concerns for foreign nationals awaiting visa, waiver, and appeal decisions, the South African government has announced an extension of the temporary concession for those currently residing in the country.
This extension, which applies exclusively to applicants who have submitted their requests through VFS Global, ensures that foreign nationals are not adversely affected while waiting for their applications to be processed.
Here’s a detailed overview of the measures and their implications.
Who Does the Concession Apply To?
The concession is for foreign nationals legally admitted into South Africa who have applied for visas, waivers, or appeals through VFS Global. Applicants must provide a verifiable receipt for their applications via the VFS Global tracking system. This measure helps those stuck in limbo while waiting for decisions from the South African Department of Home Affairs.
Temporary Measures for Waiver Applicants
Extension for Pending Waivers
Visa holders with pending waiver applications as of June 30, 2024, are granted an extension until December 31, 2024. This gives the Department of Home Affairs more time to process applications and allows applicants to receive their outcomes and submit appropriate visa applications.
Exit and Re-Entry Provisions
Applicants wishing to abandon their waiver applications can exit South Africa by December 31, 2024. Those needing to travel can re-enter until this date, but non-visa-exempt applicants must obtain a port of entry visa to re-enter.
Also Read: South Africa Plans to Introduce E-Visa and 90-Day Visa Waiver for Indians
Provisions for Pending Visa Applications
Extension for Long-Term Visa Holders
Foreign nationals with pending long-term visa applications (such as Visitor, Business, Study, Relative, and Work Visas) as of June 30, 2024, are granted an extension of their current visa status until December 31, 2024. This ensures they can legally stay in South Africa while awaiting decisions.
Travel and Re-Entry Guidelines
Similar to waiver applicants, those awaiting long-term visa outcomes can exit and re-enter South Africa until December 31, 2024. Non-visa-exempt travellers must secure a port of entry visa to return to the country.
Measures for Visa Appeal Applicants
Temporary Extension for Appeals
Visa holders who have appealed a negative decision on their long-term visa applications are granted an extension of their current status until December 31, 2024. This allows time for appeals to be processed without the risk of becoming undocumented.
Travel Provisions for Appeal Applicants
Applicants awaiting appeal decisions can travel and re-enter South Africa until December 31, 2024. They must present their rejection letter and appeal receipt when departing and returning. Non-visa-exempt applicants need a visa to re-enter, even with an appeal receipt.
Also Read: South Africa Revises Work Visa System to Streamline Process, and Attract Foreign Workers
Special Considerations for Short-Term Visa Holders
Departure Requirements: Short-term visa holders (issued visas for 90 days or less) awaiting renewal must depart South Africa within 90 days of their visa’s expiry to avoid being declared undesirable. This status could impact future entries into the country.
Commitment to Resolving Backlogs
The South African government is addressing visa and waiver processing delays by extending this concession. The Department of Home Affairs is working to reduce the backlog and protect applicants, especially those with critical skills, from adverse outcomes.
Conclusion
This extension reflects South Africa’s commitment to improving its visa system, making the country more attractive for investment, tourism, and job creation. The Department of Home Affairs will continue to address the backlog and communicate any further updates before the new expiry date of December 31, 2024. This proactive approach ensures foreign nationals can continue contributing to South Africa while awaiting their application outcomes.
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