COVID-19 | New Temporary Measures For Foreign Nationals In South Africa

Temporary measures in respect of foreign nationals in light of the COVID-19 pandemic.

As South Africa prepares for its 21 day lock down commencing on the 26th of March at midnight, the Depart of Home Affairs has released new information with regards to visa applications for foreign nationals

*Withdrawal of Visa Exemptions for travellers from COVID-19 High and Medium risk countries as determined by the World Health Organisation(WHO)*

VISA EXEMPTIONS WITHDRAWN FOR THE FOLLOWING COUNTRIES:

• Germany

• Italy

• South Korea

• Spain

• United Kingdom

• United States of America

• France

• Switzerland

*NO foreign national departing from these countries will be allowed to enter the Republic of South Africa

Visas issued to persons from the following countries in terms of section 10(9) of the Immigration Act, 2002, has been cancelled with immediate effect:

• Iran

• People’s Republic of China

In terms of Section 10A(4)(c) of the Immigration Act, 2002, the Visa Exemption of passport holders of the medium risk countries has been withdrawn:

• Hong Kong

• Portugal

• Singapore

South African citizens, PR holders and Refugees of South Africa returning from identified risk countries will be subjected to extensive screening on arrival.

Any foreign national who is already present in the Republic and originates from a country which is affected by the COVID-19 outbreak or who, in order to reach such destination of origin needs to transit a country which is affected by COVID-19, and whose temporary residence visa is due to expire or has already expired, will be allowed to re-apply for such a visa provided they meet all the prescribed requirements. Visas valid until 31 July 2020 may be issued to such applicants.

Any foreign national who originates from a country which is affected by the COVID-19 outbreak or who, in order to reach such a destination of origin needs to transit a country which is affected by the COVID-19, and who is the holder of a temporary visa which expired since 01 December 2019 and those which will be expiring up to 31 March 2020 will be allowed to re-apply for such a visa without the need to first obtain FORM 20 (Authorisation for an illegal foreigner to remain in the country pending an application for status)

These are temporary measures and is applicable until further notice.

For more Information visit the Depart of Home Affairs website :

http://www.dha.gov.za/index.php/corona-virus-information