Recent improvements by the South African government to speed up the visa application process and digitize documents in the Department of Home Affairs have been well received by many Zimbabweans. Many believe these changes will provide them with better opportunities to stay and work in South Africa.
Gabriel Shumba, a Zimbabwean lawyer and director at Global Immigration and Legal Consultancy, praised the government’s initiative. In an interview with Southern Eye, he stated:
“We welcome the Department of Home Affairs’ efforts to accelerate the processing of visa applications. This development will alleviate the anxiety and uncertainty that has long plagued applicants during their stay in South Africa.”
Shumba also highlighted the positive impact this efficiency could have on the South African economy, stating that it would help attract the skilled labor the country needs. He also noted that faster processing would reduce opportunities for corruption, which is an encouraging development.
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South Africa Sets Immigration Efficiency Targets for 2024/25
The South African Department of Home Affairs (DHA) has unveiled new immigration targets aimed at reducing processing times for visa applications in the coming financial year. The department has committed to improving efficiency within its immigration and civil services.
As part of its plans, the DHA presented its 2024 Budget Review to Parliament on October 25, outlining specific targets for the next financial year. These include:
- 85% of Permanent Residence Applications for critical skills, general work, and business visas to be processed within eight months.
- 95% of Critical Skills Visa Applications submitted within South Africa to be processed within four weeks.
- 90% of Business Visa Applications made in South Africa to be adjudicated within eight weeks.
- 90% of General Work Visa Applications to be processed within eight weeks.
- Conducting 2,000 law enforcement inspections across targeted areas to ensure compliance.
The DHA’s focus on enhancing processing speed is expected to make it easier for skilled workers, particularly from Zimbabwe and other neighboring countries, to settle and contribute to South Africa’s economy.