DA hails DHA decision to extend temporary Visa concession

Democratic Alliance (DA) has praised the Department of Home Affairs (DHA) for its recent decision to extend the temporary visa concession for foreign nationals in South Africa still awaiting the outcome of their visa, waiver, and appeal applications.

In a statement on Thursday, DA Spokesperson Werner Horn, the party commended the newly appointed Minister of DHA, Dr Leon Schreiber, for taking swift action to address the backlog of over 92,000 visas acquired during the previous administration.

The move, which will now see the concession extended until December 31, 2024, has been met with widespread approval by the DA, according to Horn.

Horn expressed confidence that under Dr Schreiber’s leadership, the DHA would be able to significantly reduce the backlog and streamline the application process.

Horn also highlighted the importance of the decision in providing certainty and relief to foreign nationals who have been left in limbo due to processing delays at the department.

He noted that the delays had reached a crisis point, causing confusion, frustration, and creating opportunities for corruption to thrive.

DA has long been an advocate for fair and efficient processes at the DHA, and Horn reiterated the party’s commitment to ensuring that the department moves out of the dark ages and into a more streamlined and effective system.

He emphasized that the extension of the temporary visa concession would not only benefit foreign nationals but would also have positive long-term effects on the economy, attracting skilled individuals, investments, tourism, and ultimately leading to job creation.

DA sees DHA’s decision as a step in the right direction and a positive move towards addressing the issues facing the department.

“With Dr Schreiber at the helm, the party is hopeful that further improvements and reforms will be implemented to ensure a more efficient and transparent visa application process in the future,” added Horn.