💨 Abstract

On March 31, 2026, visa concessions for thousands of foreign nationals in South Africa will end, putting them at risk of losing their legal status. The Department of Home Affairs has not announced an extension, leaving many in limbo, especially those with pending applications. Legal experts suggest that the cost of escalating proceedings might be less than the cost of abrupt departure. The situation highlights the need for a more permanent solution to address processing delays and uncertainty.

Courtesy: Ray Leathern