Trouble for visas in South Africa
While the Department of Home Affairs has made a significant dent in its persistent visa backlog, applications are still piling up – which risks escalating.
According to immigration experts at Xpatweb, positive strides are being made at the DHA to clear the backlog, but worries persist that the department will struggle to clear it while applications pile up.
The group noted that there are about 3,100 new applications each month, which could escalate to around 36,000 a year – all while the department is working to clear the existing backlog of over 140,000 applications.
In July, new DHA minister Leon Schreiber said the department was making headway, having cleared about 30% of the backlog, cutting through 92,886 applications out of a total of 306,042.
While this would put the remaining number at about 200,000, the department said that the backlog was at about 140,000.
Another worry is that clearing the backlog will take longer than expected.
The previous administration set a target to clear the backlog by June 2024, which was then pushed back to November 2024. It has now again been pushed back with the new deadline set for December 2024.
This presents a significant concern for businesses that are trying to draw foreigners with scarce and economically-important skills.
Xpatweb’s latest survey shows that there is a particular need for skills in engineering and ICT, but also trade skills like tradesmen.
Some of the critical skills mentioned in the survey include:
- Software developers
- Data analysts and scientists
- Specialist IT managers
- Electricians
- Fitters and turners
- Machine fitters
- Specialized instrument makers and
- Calibration technicians.
Room for some hope
According to Xpatweb, while the concerns linger, the minister held a “pivotal meeting” with key stakeholders in South Africa’s business community this past week, which showed encouraging signs for the department’s plans—including the backlog.
Business Unity South Africa (BUSA) and Business Leadership South Africa (BLSA) scheduled the session, which included senior team members such as the Director General of the Department of Home Affairs.
The session focused on areas such as encouraging foreign direct investment, increased tourism and mobilising skills which in turn creates employment.
Marisa Jacobs, Managing Director of Xpatweb highlighted key takeaways from the session, such as Schreiber demonstrating a “solid understanding of the most pressing issues faced by the department”.
“The Minister outlined several initiatives and plans aimed at addressing the future of immigration policies in South Africa. His proactive approach signals a commitment to implementing effective solutions. He touched on the successful implementation of the Trusted Employer Scheme and leveraging the success for more companies on a long-term basis,” Jacobs said.
Addressing the backlog, Schreiber told the groups that the department’s goal is to clear the current backlog by the end of the year, which will allow the department to focus on other crucial areas in 2025, including streamlining systems to prevent future backlogs.
The work clearing the backlog and preventing future pile-ups is being done in collaboration with the private sector.
The minister also looked beyond visa regulations and pointed to the broader implications of immigration policies on sectors such as foreign investment and tourism.
“The Minister is by far the most accessible and consultative Minister of Home Affairs in the past two decades. This openness is a significant advantage for the business community, providing them with a channel for effective communication and collaboration,” Jacobs said.
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