In December, the South African Department of Home Affairs (DHA) issued a directive that has caused a stir among international visitors.
Known as ‘swallows,’ tourists who typically stay for up to six months face an abrupt end to their visit due to a new mandate requiring them to leave by the end of February 2024.
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The directive specifies that short-term visas issued up to and including 30 November 2023, for stays of 90 days or less will not be extended if the renewal outcome is not received by 23 February 2024.
Visitors must arrange to leave by 29 February 2024, to avoid being declared ‘undesirable.’
The DHA has given strict instructions to the Border Management Authority to enforce the directive while also granting another extension to foreigners whose waiver and visa applications were still pending as of 30 November 2023, including long-term visas such as business, study, relatives, or work visas.
Applicants falling into these categories have had their current visa status extended until 31 June 2024.
Critics argue that the DHA’s inefficiency and alleged corruption are to blame. South Africa, known for its easy visa grants to many countries upon arrival, now struggles to process extensions due to internal shortcomings.
This impacts seasonal expats who traditionally enjoy six-month stays, contributing significantly to the local economy through tourism and investment.
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Dirk Meissner, the managing director of an immigration service called Wanderlust, noted the directive’s impact on the Western Cape’s economy and criticised the DHA for its handling of visa extensions.
The directive, he said, borders on economic sabotage.
According to Meissner, ‘swallows’ are a strength for the province because of their investment in the Cape, including everything from hospitality to suppliers and services.
He said, ‘Everyone smiles and is grateful for what they receive. Does our Home Affairs Minister really sit in such isolation that he does not see any of this, the desperation of South Africans for these kinds of jobs and contributions?’
Kristina Gromova of De Jure Immigration and Stefanie de Saude-Darbandi, an immigration attorney, noted the human impact of these delays, including family separations and missed life events. Despite legal challenges and court orders against the DHA, the backlog remains extensive, with no resolution.
‘Some have missed out on important family occasions, including the opportunity to say goodbye to a loved one who has passed away, graduation ceremonies, weddings of close family members, anniversaries, etc., because of the fear of not being able to return once they have departed.’
The DHA has yet to comment on the situation, and visitors with pending short-term visa applications are advised to comply with the new directive to avoid complications.
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Picture: Stephan Louis / Unsplash
