09 Dec How Administrative Delay is Stranding Immigrants
The administrative delays within South Africa’s Department of Home Affairs (DHA) have left thousands of immigrants stranded, unable to access basic services, reunite with their loved ones or family, or secure their legal status.
Even though there have been multiple official claims of progress, persistent backlogs and systemic inefficiencies continue to cause significant hardships, highlighting the urgent need for comprehensive reform. Seeking legal assistance from an immigration consultant in South Africa? June Luna Immigration Attorneys provide unmatched services.
Trapped in a Legal Limbo
Immigrants are trapped in what you might call a legal limbo, where they are unable to access banking, employment, or travel, and are often separated from their families. However, the DHA has repeatedly claimed to have resolved backlogs, but evidence shows that significant delays persist, especially regarding appeals, waivers, and permanent residency applications.
These delays are not new, and they are the result of chronic systemic issues, including outdated systems, recurring policy failure, and resource shortages. While some reforms have been attempted, only a combination of immediate process improvements and long-term systemic changes, such as digital modernisation, transparent oversight, and better workforce planning, can address the root causes and prevent further harm to immigrants.
Will immigrants be able to visit their loved ones during the holidays?
The situation is concerning, especially with the holiday season looming and flights already booked to see family and friends abroad. Immigrants to South Africa who have done what is expected and diligently and timeously filed their application are now in a state of panic. Basic renewal applications and extensions of tourist visas have been pending for over six months.
Status updates received from the department are provided only if an applicant calls or emails the Department of Home Affairs, whereby they are provided with a reference number and told that their application has been “escalated.” Nothing further transpires.
June Luna, managing partner of June Luna Immigration Attorneys in Cape Town, stated that she hears stories from immigrants to South Africa daily, where foreigners are unable to run their businesses because their bank accounts have been frozen, they are unable to reunite with their spouse in South Africa, and cannot travel abroad to visit ill family members. All of this is a result of administrative delays and a failure by the department to provide a viable solution.
June Luna also mentioned that “The acknowledgement of the very real backlog that plagues South African immigration is a step in the right direction.” An amended directive from the department that allows anyone on a receipt of application for their pending visa to be able to freely leave the country, with proof that they have applied, is an actionable, straightforward step that would positively affect tens of thousands of legal immigrants in the country.
Do you feel stranded or stuck in a legal limbo? CONTACT US team at June Luna Immigration Attorneys today. We will guide you through your application or reapplication process and advise you on whether leaving the country to visit your family is a viable option. Our team can also assist with appeals, civic services, and citizenship.