Validities of certain visa, waiver applications extended

IMPACT – MEDIUM

The South African government has provided a blanket extension to foreign nationals renewing visas or waivers to stay in South Africa.

Key Points:

• Individuals who have a pending visa or waiver application have received an automatic extension of stay until at least March 31, 2023. Under a previous extension, individuals with pending visa or waiver applications were permitted to stay through Sept. 30, 2022.
• Foreign nationals with pending long-term visa applications who are from countries that are exempt from entry visa requirements can depart South Africa and return by showing their Visa Facilitation Service Center (VFS) receipt.
• Individuals from countries that require a visa to enter South Africa are advised not to travel as they will need to apply for a visa in their country of residence to return to South Africa.
• Those who have expired visas and wish to leave South Africa on or before March 31, 2023, can do so without being declared undesirable upon their departure from South Africa.

BAL Analysis: The South African government has granted the automatic visa and waiver extensions to help those who have been negatively impacted by current processing delays. Foreign nationals with pending waiver or visa applications can now stay in the country legally until at least March 31, 2023.

This alert has been provided by Berry Appleman & Leiden. For additional information, please contact berryapplemanleiden@bal.com.

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