Immigration Directive No. 22 of 2025
What It Means for Visa Applicants in South Africa
Introduction: Why This Directive Matters Now
The South African Department of Home Affairs (DHA) has issued a revised version of Immigration Directive No. 22 of 2025, providing temporary relief measures for foreign nationals awaiting outcomes of visa waiver and appeal applications. These amendments are critical for individuals navigating South Africa’s immigration process, especially amid backlogs that affect legal status and travel plans.
Core Policy Update: Extension of Waiver and Appeal Concessions
Who Does This Affect?
The directive primarily applies to:
Waiver applicants with pending decisions.
Long-term visa appeal applicants awaiting outcomes under sections 11(1)(b) to 22 of the Immigration Act.
What Is the New Deadline?
All affected applicants are granted an extension until 31 March 2026 to allow for processing, outcome collection, and visa submission.
Can You Travel During the Waiting Period?
Yes. Foreign nationals with pending waiver or appeal applications can legally depart and re-enter South Africa without being declared undesirable under section 30(1)(h), provided:
They show proof of submission (e.g., waiver receipt or appeal confirmation).
Non-visa-exempt applicants must still apply for a port of entry visa for re-entry.
This allowance is valid until 31 March 2026.
What If You Applied Before 07 March 2024 and Haven’t Heard Back?
You are advised to urgently contact the DHA at [email protected] or 0800 601 190.
What About Short-Term Visa Holders?
The directive only applies to legally admitted long-term visa or waiver applicants who used VFS Global and possess verifiable application receipts.
Final Thoughts: How to Prepare Moving Forward
Foreign nationals should:
Secure all documentation: waiver receipts, appeal confirmations, and port of entry visas.
Avoid unauthorised travel if non-visa exempt without proper entry documents.
Track their applications using VFS Global’s tracking systems.
By adhering to these guidelines, applicants can ensure compliance and prevent legal complications.
