Cape Town – In a decisive move to address the visa processing delays at Home Affairs, Minister Leon Schreiber has extended the concession designed to safeguard skilled workers, tourists, and other individuals affected by these delays.
This extension comes in the wake of the previous concession’s expiration on 30 June, which had left many applicants vulnerable to adverse consequences, including the risk of being erroneously declared “undesirable”.
“Without this concession, international tourists and workers who contribute to our economy would have been punished if their documentation expired while they awaited the outcome of Home Affairs processes. This would not only be unfair and irrational, but would also discourage investment, tourism and skills transfer.
“Under the concession I granted today, this situation is averted and applicants, businesses and other stakeholders are protected while Home Affairs tackles the backlog of visa applications. Clearing this backlog is an urgent priority and I will keep the public updated as we proceed,” the minister said.
In my first act as Minister, I have immediately extended the concession to safeguard skilled workers, tourists and other people affected by visa processing delays at Home Affairs. I have done so after the previous concession expired on 30 June, which left applicants vulnerable to… pic.twitter.com/WHbJPhQb6p
— Leon Schreiber (@Leon_Schreib) July 4, 2024
Schreiber pledged to work diligently with the Home Affairs team to restore public trust and enhance South Africa’s economic appeal.
“Together, the Home Affairs team will work hard to restore your trust and build South Africa,” he said.
This proactive measure by the Home Affairs Minister is seen as a significant step towards reinvigorating the department as an economic enabler for the country, ensuring that the interests of skilled workers, tourists, and the broader economy are safeguarded.
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Compiled by Betha Madhomu
