The South African Department of Home Affairs has announced an extension of temporary concessions for foreign nationals facing delays in visa, waiver, and appeal application processing. This extension, outlined in Immigration Directive No. 4 of 2025, provides relief to affected individuals, ensuring they remain legally in the country while awaiting their outcomes.

Key Points of the Directive

1. Extension for Pending Waiver Applications

Foreign nationals with pending waiver applications as of March 28, 2025, are granted an extension until September 30, 2025. This allows them to stay legally in South Africa while awaiting their results.

• Those who wish to abandon their waiver applications may depart without being declared undesirable.
• If a visa holder with a pending waiver needs to travel, they may leave and re-enter the country before the deadline.
• Non-visa-exempt travelers must apply for a port of entry visa to return.

2. Extension for Pending Visa Applications

Foreign nationals who have applied for long-term visas (e.g., work, business, study visas) before the issuance of this directive will have their current visa status extended until September 30, 2025.

• Visa holders must continue to follow the conditions of their visa and cannot engage in unauthorized activities.
• They may leave and return to South Africa before the deadline without being declared undesirable.
• Non-visa-exempt travelers must apply for a port of entry visa before re-entering.

3. Extension for Pending Visa Appeals

Foreign nationals who have appealed a visa rejection will also benefit from a visa extension until September 30, 2025.

• Appeal applicants must carry proof of their rejection letter and appeal submission receipt when traveling.
• They are allowed to depart and re-enter without being declared undesirable.
• Non-visa-exempt travelers must apply for a port of entry visa before returning to South Africa.

How Black Pen Immigration Can Help

Visa processes can be complex, especially with delays. Black Pen Immigration provides expert guidance on visa applications, waivers, and appeals to ensure you remain compliant. Take our FREE ASSESSMENT today and let us help you navigate your immigration journey.

Important Notes

• These concessions only apply to foreign nationals who were legally admitted into South Africa and have verifiable VFS Global receipts.
• Permanent residence applicants are not covered by this directive and must ensure their legal status remains valid.

This directive aims to address delays in visa processing and prevent affected individuals from facing travel or legal complications.

For more details, read the OFFICIAL DIRECTIVE from the Department of Home Affairs.