The Department of Home Affairs has announced an important update regarding foreign nationals awaiting outcomes on certain applications. Immigration Directive No. 4 of 2025 provides a further temporary extension for specific groups due to ongoing processing delays.   

Why the Extension?

While the Department has been working to clear application backlogs, delays in processing, particularly with printing and handling appeals and some manual applications, mean many outcomes won’t be ready by the previous deadline. To address this, a new temporary extension has been granted.   

Who Does This Affect?

This extension applies immediately to foreign nationals legally admitted into South Africa who have submitted applications via VFS Global and can provide a VFS receipt. Specifically, it covers:   

  1. Pending Waiver Applicants: If you applied for a waiver and are still waiting for the outcome, your concession is extended until 30 September 2025. This allows time for processing and for you to collect the outcome and submit further visa applications if needed. You can leave South Africa before or on this date without being declared undesirable. Suppose you need to travel internationally before your outcome. In that case, you can leave and re-enter up to 30 September 2025, but non-visa exempt individuals will need a port of entry visa to return. 
  2. Pending Long-Term Visa Applicants: If you applied for a long-term visa (sections 11(1)(b) up to 22 of the Immigration Act) and are awaiting the outcome, your current visa status is extended until 30 September 2025. Travel is permitted under similar conditions as waiver applicants (including the need for a port of entry visa for non-visa exempt individuals returning). Remember, you must adhere to your current visa conditions.   
  3. Pending Long-Term Visa Appeal Applicants: If you appealed a negative decision on a long-term visa application, your current visa status is also extended until 30 September 2025. Travel rules are similar, requiring proof of appeal submission upon departure and re-entry. Non-visa exempt individuals will need a port of entry visa to return. You must stick to your existing visa conditions.   

Important Note: This concession does not apply to those awaiting outcomes for permanent residence permits. Permanent residence applicants must ensure their temporary status remains valid throughout the process.   

This extension provides necessary breathing room while the department finalizes application processing. Stay informed and ensure you have the required documentation if travelling.