In response to recent queries raised by Ms. T A Khanyile from the DA party, the Minister of Home Affairs clarified the Department’s stance on visa processing delays.

The Minister noted that while no formal memorandum was received from the State Attorney’s office in Cape Town, media reports hinted at its existence. Investigations revealed informal communication between junior officials, lacking authorization and containing inaccuracies.

Regarding the breakdown of the 95,000 visa backlog, there were no backlogs in Critical Skills, Business, and General Work Visas. However, the majority of delays were attributed to spousal and relatives’ visas, totaling 79,916 applications. The primary challenge identified by the Department was the verification of relationships claimed in visa applications, with suspicions of corruption being a significant concern. Specifically, Section 11(6) and Section 18 visas were highlighted as the categories most affected by suspected fraudulent activities.

Click Here to read the official Department of Home Affairs Report on Visa Backlogs.