30 March 2026
The Department of Home Affairs has just published Immigration Directive 7 of 2026 .
This Directive which refers to a further “EXTENSION OF TEMPORARY CONCESSION FOR FOREIGN NATIONALS RELATED TO DELAYED PROCESSING OF WAIVER, VISA AND APPEAL APPLICATIONS” marks a further administrative development in South Africa’s immigration framework.
Eisenberg & Associates is monitoring the Directive closely and will continue to assess its practical impact on applicants, employers, and families navigating the immigration system, with updates to follow as its scope and operational effect become clearer particularly on how these may affect our clients. Read more here.
Take note that the concessions granted refer to applications submitted and pending on or before 30 March 2026.
These concessions do not apply to short-term visitor visa extension applications.
We strongly recommend individuals with pending applications seek clear reliable advice rather than chancing departures based on hearsay assurances. A departure on an expired visa notwithstanding a pending application/waiver/appeal – unless covered by this Directive – will result in an overstay and declaration of undesirability.
Read the Directive as published by the DHA here.