A New Dawn for South Africa’s Department of Home Affairs
Introduction On the 3rd of July 2024, a new era began in the Department of Home Affairs. For the first time since the first government of South Africa, the Minister of Home Affairs is not a member of the ANC. Dr. Leon Schriber takes on the role facing numerous...
The Elephant in the Room: The Hidden Dangers of the 1996 Exemption Permit
In my 12 years of working in the field of SA immigration, I have written many an article on many aspects of SA immigration. But none of these articles have ever been so difficult to put to paper as this one. Yet it is perhaps one of the most consequential that I have...
Inauguration and Immigration: Challenges and Hopes for South Africa’s New Administration
On Wednesday, President Cyril Ramaphosa will take the oath of office for his second term, marking the inauguration of the 7th administration for the Republic of South Africa. This new administration promises to be intriguing as it includes representatives from all...
Landmark Constitutional Court Ruling Strengthens Family Rights in Immigration: Key Sections Declared Inconsistent, Opening Path for Visa Re-evaluation and Work Rights
The significance of the right to family life and the preservation of the family unit, integral to the right to dignity as outlined in the constitution, has once again emerged as a focal point, reshaping the landscape of immigration. In a recent ruling, the...
Landmark Decision: South Africa Issues New Exemption Permits for Zimbabwean and Basotho Nationals
Today, the Minister of Home Affairs has published Directives 3 and 4 of 2023 in the Government Gazette, implementing the Minister's decision to grant new exemption permits for Zimbabwean and Basotho Nationals who have been residing and working in South Africa under...
Anticipating South African Immigration Law Reforms: What to Expect in the Near Future
Interesting developments emerged in the aftermath of the recent cabinet statement. There is a clear indication of heightened immigration enforcement efforts across various fronts, including the authorization of business inspections. Notably, a new White Paper is set...