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Validity of dependent or accompanying spouse visas We often get questioned or asked why dependent spouse visas are issued for a shorter period than the main applicant's visa. The answer is quite simple and clear - dependent visas, as per South African immigration law, are issued as long-term visitor's visas, and by law, all long-term visitor's visas are issued with a maximum validity of three (3) years at a time. We have to keep in mind, though, that the validity of the visa may also be issued in accordance with the passport validity in the event that the passport is valid for less than three (3) years. The only exception to the rule is if the dependent is the spouse of a critical skills work visa holder. In this instance, and as per Immigration Regulation 18 (7), as quoted: "A spouse and dependent children of a holder of a critical skills work visa shall be issued with an appropriate visa valid for a period not exceeding the period of validity of the applicant's critical skills work visa." To confirm - if the critical skills work visa has been issued for five (5) years, the dependent spouse and children's visas must be issued for a period of five (5) years too. Once again, this is subject to the validity of the passport. Please feel free to reach out via our contact form on www.movingsouthimmigration.com in case of any questions. Alternatively, you may contact us at +2773 5357 534 or sue@movingsouthimmigration.com

Home Affairs extends blanket waiver for waiver and appeal applications Home Affairs Minister, Dr Leon Schreiber, once again, extended the blanket waiver to applicants who are currently awaiting the outcomes of their submitted waiver and visa (not PR) appeal applications. In a twist of note, the Department did NOT include any pending visa applications in this newly issued blanket waiver. This means, any applicant who applied for a long-term visa and still awaiting an outcome, is unfortunately not covered under this document. Applicants who submitted their waiver or visa appeal applications prior to 23 September 2025, are now covered until 31 March 2026. This means applicants may travel, if required, from South Africa between now until 31 March 2026 on expired visas without being declared undesirable. They will be required, however, to present their original VFS receipts upon their departure from and entry into South Africa. Visa exempt nationals may simply enter South Africa again on their usual 30-90 day visas to collect the outcomes of their visa applications. However, unfortunately for nationals from visa-restricted countries, this is not the case. They must apply for and obtain a port of entry visa in order to be re-admitted into South Africa. Appeal applicants, if travelling, are required to produce a copy of the rejection letter, together with their original VFS receipt as proof that the appeal application was submitted legally at the VFS office. It is important to note that this blanket waiver ONLY covers applicants who submitted their visa appeal and waiver applications within South Africa prior to 23 September 2025 and who have been legally admitted into the country. As per the Department of Home Affairs - any other person from the categories not listed in the blanket waiver and who have not received his or her outcome and the application was made before 07 March 2024 and remain pending is advised to urgently inquire by contacting the Home Affairs Contact Centre on email address hacc@dha.gov.za or may alternatively call them on 0800 601 190. Please feel free to reach out to us via our contact form on www.movingsouthimmigration.com  to discuss. Alternatively, you may contact us on +2773 5357 534 or sue@movingsouthimmigration.com

Home Affairs extends ZEP and LEP until 28 May 2027 The Department of Home Affairs (DHA) has once extended the Zimbabwean Exemption Permits (current permit holders) and Lesotho Exemption Permits (current permit holders) until 28 May 2027. This means that existing ZEP's and LEP's shall be deemed to remain valid for an additional (18) eighteen months after the current expiry date of 28 November 2025. The exemption permit holders will be allowed travels between South Africa and any other country. To quote Immigration Directive No's 20 of 2025 and 21 of 2025 " no holder of the exemption may be arrested, ordered to depart or be detained for purposes of deportation or deported in terms of section 34 of the Immigration Act for any reason related to him or her not having any valid exemption certificate". Should you require any further information regarding this announcement, please contact us via our Contact Form on www.movingsouthimmigration.com .  Alternatively, please contact us on +2773 5357 534 or sue@movingsouthimmigration.com

Navigating the complexities of immigration can be a daunting task. When it comes to South Africa, understanding the visa process and the services available can make a significant difference. I have found that clear guidance and expert support are essential for a smooth transition, whether you are an individual or a corporate entity seeking to establish a presence in South Africa. This post will provide you with practical insights and actionable advice on South African visa assistance, helping you to approach the process with confidence. Understanding South African Visa Assistance South African visa assistance involves a range of services designed to help applicants meet the requirements set by the Department of Home Affairs. These services include guidance on visa types, documentation, application procedures, and compliance with immigration laws. Whether you are applying for a work visa, study permit, or permanent residency, professional assistance can streamline the process. There are several visa categories to consider: Work Visas : For individuals seeking employment in South Africa, including general work visas, critical skills visas, and intra-company transfer visas. Study Visas : For students enrolled in recognized South African educational institutions. Business Visas : For entrepreneurs and investors planning to establish or invest in a South African business. Permanent Residency : For those intending to make South Africa their long-term home. Each visa type has specific requirements and documentation. For example, a critical skills work visa requires proof of qualifications and evidence that the skills are in demand in South Africa. Understanding these nuances is crucial to avoid delays or refusals. Visa application forms ready for submission The Benefits of Professional South African Visa Assistance Engaging with professional visa assistance services offers several advantages. First, it reduces the risk of errors in your application, which can lead to costly delays. Experts stay updated on the latest immigration regulations and policy changes, ensuring your application complies with current standards. Second, professional assistance can save you time. The visa application process often involves gathering numerous documents, completing forms accurately, and responding to requests from immigration authorities. Having a knowledgeable partner to guide you through these steps allows you to focus on your relocation or business plans. Third, personalized support is invaluable. Immigration consultants can assess your unique situation and recommend the most suitable visa category. They can also help prepare for interviews or additional documentation requests, increasing your chances of success. For corporate clients, visa assistance services can manage multiple employee applications, ensuring compliance with labour laws and immigration policies. This support is essential for companies expanding operations or relocating staff to South Africa. Consultant providing personalised South African visa assistance Practical Steps to Prepare Your South African Visa Application Preparation is the cornerstone of a successful visa application. Here are some practical steps to consider: Identify the Correct Visa Type : Review your purpose of stay and select the visa category that best fits your situation. Gather Required Documents : Common documents include passports, proof of financial means, employment contracts, educational certificates, and medical reports. Complete Application Forms Accurately : Errors or omissions can cause delays or rejections. Submit Your Application Early : Processing times vary, so apply well in advance of your intended travel date. Prepare for Interviews or Additional Requests : Be ready to provide further information if requested by immigration officials. It is advisable to keep copies of all submitted documents and correspondence. This practice helps track your application status and provides evidence if issues arise. For businesses, maintaining compliance with South African labour and immigration laws is essential. This includes ensuring that work visas are valid and that employees meet all legal requirements. Why Choose Moving South Immigration for Your Visa Needs? In my experience, partnering with a trusted immigration service provider can transform a complex process into a manageable one. Moving South Immigration specializes in assisting individuals and corporate companies with South African visa applications. Their deep expertise and personalized approach make them a preferred choice for many. They offer comprehensive support, from initial consultation to final adjudication, ensuring that every detail is handled professionally. Their knowledge of the latest immigration policies and procedures means they can anticipate challenges and provide effective solutions. By choosing Moving South Immigration, you benefit from: Tailored advice based on your unique circumstances. Efficient handling of documentation and submissions. Ongoing support throughout the application process. Access to a network of legal and immigration experts. If you are considering relocating to South Africa or expanding your business there, I recommend exploring the south africa immigration services they provide. Their commitment to making immigration smooth and stress-free aligns perfectly with your goals. Embarking on the journey to obtain a South African visa requires careful planning and informed decisions. With the right assistance and preparation, you can navigate the process confidently and focus on the exciting opportunities that await in South Africa. How do I contact Moving South Immigration? We can be contacted via the following channels - Website - www.movingsouthimmigration.com  through the Contact Form Email - sue@movingsouthimmigration.com   Telephone   / WhatsApp  - +2773 5357 534 We look forward to hearing from you.

Muizenberg beach It's officially September and tourism season in South Africa started! Tourism season is usually an indication that the festive season is well on its way too. We confirm, once again, that an applicant is able to extend his or her tourist visa by a further 90 days within South Africa. This application must be submitted, in person and by appointment, at a VFS office near you. Very important to note , however, that an application must be lodged no less than 60 days prior to the expiry of the tourist visa. If you were issued with only 30 days at immigration control, you must submit your extension application no less than 7 days prior to expiry of your tourist visa. Below, you can find a good overview of documents needed for the extension process - Certified copy of your passport Certified copy of your entry stamp or proof of valid entry into South Africa Proof of sufficient funds for duration of stay in South Africa e.g a closing balance of at least ZAR 3,000 per month Proof of accommodation for duration of stay in South Africa Departure flight back to home country Feel free to speak to us about your extension process. We can be contacted via our website www.movingsouthimmigration.com  or alternatively reach out to us via email or telephone on sue@movingsouthimmigration.com  or +2773 5357 534. We look forward to hearing from you!

Please note that from 06 June 2025, all applicants who wish to collect their outcome from the VFS office in Johannesburg will have the option to schedule an appointment in order to collect their outcome. According to VFS, an applicant who schedules an appointment, will experience a faster turnaround time at the collections counter. VFS has noted though, that from 01 July 2025, the collection of outcomes will be mandatory for ALL applicants, who in turn will be required to schedule an appointment to collect. The following website link must be used in order to schedule a collection https://vfsforms.mioot.com/forms/DHA/ Should you have any questions regarding this new VFS arrangement, please do not hesitate to contact us visa our Contact Form on www.movingsouthimmigration.com . Alternatively, we may be reached on sue@movingsouthimmigration.com  or +2773 5357 534.

Wow - where does one begin? This year has certainly flown by. 2024 has been an interesting year - a year of testing every bit of our patience, fibers, beings and the list can go on. It certainly took a right and a big left afterwards with so many unexpected turns - both negative and positive. A positive that the decade long backlog is almost cleared and a negative because of the high number of rejections issued. Once again, congratulations to those who received their temporary residence visas and permanent residence statuses in South Africa. To those who were not so lucky or are still waiting, I know it's hard but hang in there - things will work out in the end. A massive thank you to each and every client and supporter for your wonderful support during 2024 and I look forward to continuing our journey in 2025. I would like to wish each and every one, who celebrate, a wonderful Christmas and festive season. Enjoy the time with family and friends and as always, enjoy making these precious memories. If you are travelling, please do so safely and we'll continue our journey in 2025!

Home Affairs Minister, Dr Leon Schreiber, once again, extended the blanket waiver to applicants who are currently awaiting the outcomes of their submitted long-term visa, appeal or waiver applications. Applicants who submitted their long-term visa, waiver or appeal applications prior to 18 December 2024, are now covered until 31 March 2025. This means applicants may travel, if required, from South Africa between now until 31 March 2025 on expired visas without being declared undesirable. They will be required, however, to present their original VFS receipts upon their departure from and entry into South Africa. Visa exempt nationals may simply enter South Africa again on their usual 30-90 day visas to collect the outcomes of their visa applications. However, unfortunately for nationals from visa-restricted countries, this is not the case. They must apply for and obtain a port of entry visa in order to be re-admitted into South Africa. Appeal applicants, if travelling, are required to produce a copy of the rejection letter, together with their original VFS receipt as proof that the appeal application was submitted legally at the VFS office. Holders of short-term visas (tourist visas) for 90 days or less, since 01 October 2024, are also covered under the blanket extension of 90 days up to and including 31 March 2025 - provided that the cumulative duration of stay from the date of initial entry until the date of leaving South Africa does not exceed 180 days. These tourist visa holders must be allowed to leave South Africa and re-enter up to and including 31 March 2025 without being declared undesirable by immigration or border control. To reiterate - applicants are not allowed to engage in any activity other than what is stipulated on the current visas. It is important to note that this blanket waiver ONLY covers applicants who submitted their visa, appeal and waiver applications within South Africa prior to 30 November 2024 and who have been legally admitted into the country. Please feel free to reach out to us via our contact form on www.movingsouthimmigration.com  to discuss. Alternatively, you may contact us on +2773 5357 534 or sue@movingsouthimmigration.com

The Department of Home Affairs (DHA) announced that it is extending the Lesotho Exemption Permits (current permit holders) for a further twelve (12) months until 28 November 2025. The exemption permit holders will be allowed travels between South Africa and any other country. We urge all LEP holders to carry a copy of the Gazetted notification regarding this extension with their passports. Should you require any further information regarding this announcement, please contact us via our Contact Form on www.movingsouthimmigration.com .  Alternatively, please contact us on +2773 5357 534 or sue@movingsouthimmigration.com

Please note that the following VFS DHA offices will be open on 07 December 2024 to accept walk-in Submissions and Collections from 08h00 – 15h00: Johannesburg Pretoria Durban Cape Town This is to ease the pressure on timing of submitting urgent applications, but also to alleviate the pressure on waiting times during the week due to long queues. We plead to applicants / collectors to make use of this opportunity made available by the VFS DHA team!

Great news for applicants needing to submit their appeal applications during this time! Due to the ongoing struggles to secure a VFS appointment within the 10-working day appeal submission period AND submitting the application within the same timeframe, the Director-General decided to allow applicants to submit their respective appeal applications on the VFS online portal, book their appointments and subsequently submit their applications on an available date on the VFS appointment calendar. This means that applicants, who are only able to secure an appointment slot after the 10 working days, are able to still submit their applications, but MUST do so before 31 March 2025 - the only acceptable timeframe as determined by the Director-General. Per instruction from Home Affairs, VFS needs to ensure that each application for appeal must include proof that the online booking was made, within the required 10 working days, counting from the date that the rejection letter was collected from the VFS office. This news certainly comes as a great relief to individuals who need to queue for hours at the VFS office and needing to submit their application as a walk-in applicant. Home Affairs has cautioned that this circular is only but a temporary measure to ease the pressure on applicants needing to appeal and that this measure is only valid until 31 March 2025. Should you require any additional information about this newly published circular or appeal submission arrangements, do not hesitate to contact us via our Contact Form on www.movingsouthimmigration.com . Alternatively, we may be reached on sue@movingsouthimmigration.com or +2773 5357 534. We look forward to hearing from you!

The Department of Home Affairs (DHA) announced that it is extending the Zimbabwean Exemption Permits (current permit holders) for a further twelve (12) months until 28 November 2025. This is indeed good news to ZEP holders who have applied for but have not received their waiver outcomes in order to apply for their respective general work visas. The exemption permit holders will be allowed travels between South Africa and any other country. Should you require any further information regarding this announcement, please contact us via our Contact Form on www.movingsouthimmigration.com .  Alternatively, please contact us on +2773 5357 534 or sue@movingsouthimmigration.com