411
Home Affairs Slammed Over High Visa Rejection Rate Despite Clearing Backlog
The Department of Home Affairs (DHA) has come under fire for its high visa rejection rate, despite clearing a 306,000-application backlog with its so-called “Backlog Bomb Squad.” Immigration agents and lawyers report that up to 80% of visa applications are being rejected, with some calling the process arbitrary and inconsistent.
A Visa Backlog Cleared—But at What Cost?
Minister of Home Affairs Leon Schreiber recently celebrated the clearance of a multi-year visa backlog, which had stalled applications for business, work, and residence permits. However, immigration specialists argue that the department has prioritized speed over accuracy, resulting in a surge of rejections.
“I have five high-net-worth clients who easily qualify for visas, and four of them were rejected,” says Steven de Andrade of Synergy Immigration Specialists.
Another immigration lawyer, Stefanie de Saude-Darbandi, claims that three out of five applications are being rejected—often unlawfully.
“It seems like the focus is purely on clearing the backlog rather than making quality decisions.”
Official Rejection Rate vs. Agent Reports
Home Affairs spokesperson Duwayne Esau insists that the official visa rejection rate is 27%, in line with historical trends. However, immigration experts dispute this, citing figures as high as 70-80%.
Esau attributes the perception of increased rejections to delays in printing visa labels for successful applicants. Since only rejection letters are being sent out while awaiting the labels, it creates the illusion of a much higher rejection rate.
Business Owners and Investors Affected
The high rejection rate is impacting business investors looking to bring capital and skills into South Africa.
A German businessman, who invested millions in South African real estate and businesses, had to take the DHA to court at a cost of R300,000 to force them to process his permanent residence application—which he eventually won.
“Trying to go through normal channels yielded no results after three years,” he said.
Inconsistent Visa Criteria and Arbitrary Rejections
Reports suggest that Home Affairs is rejecting applications for unclear or arbitrary reasons, leading to frustration among immigrants, professionals, and investors.
Some concerning trends include:
- Doctors being denied visas because they missed a phone call to verify a medical certificate.
- Spouses in legal civil marriages being asked for proof of financial responsibility and cohabitation—which is not legally required.
- Applications being denied for ‘insufficient financial documentation’ even when all necessary paperwork has been submitted.
“We don’t know who the so-called ‘Bomb Squad’ is or what their qualifications are,” says de Saude-Darbandi.
“But if they are making these decisions, it’s clear they don’t know what they’re doing.”
The Backlog Returns—In Appeals
With thousands of rejected applicants expected to appeal, Home Affairs now faces a new backlog in the appeals system.
According to SA Migration International, many applicants are receiving vague rejection letters or no explanation at all, making the appeal process even harder.
“The Department is required to provide written reasons for rejections, but this is often ignored,” the organization stated.
Deadline for Visa Appeals Extended
Recognizing the overwhelming number of appeals, Home Affairs extended the deadline for submitting appeals to 10 days after receiving a rejection letter. This applies until March 2025.
The department admitted that VFS Global, which processes applications, has been overwhelmed by the surge in appeals.
Court Cases and Contempt Orders
The visa backlog issue has led to multiple court battles, with some applicants winning judgments against Home Affairs. However, lawyers claim that even court orders are being ignored, leading to contempt cases against the DHA.
“Some orders are now in contempt of previous contempt orders,” says de Saude-Darbandi.
What’s Next for South Africa’s Immigration System?
While Minister Schreiber has been praised for tackling long-standing inefficiencies, critics argue that rushed decisions are creating a new crisis. If rejection rates remain high, South Africa risks:
- Losing skilled workers and investors who contribute to the economy.
- A growing legal battle as rejected applicants turn to the courts.
- A new backlog in the appeals system, further delaying visa processes.
With South Africa trying to position itself as a business-friendly destination, a transparent and fair visa process is essential to attracting global talent and investment.
Follow Joburg ETC on Facebook, Twitter , TikTok and Instagram
For more News in Johannesburg, visit joburgetc.com
