Law Clinics Overwhelmed as Asylum Seekers Blocked from System
Refugee offices are not processing new applications unless immigrants have a transit visa, despite a court ruling that this is unconstitutional.
According to lawyers, Home Affairs has stopped processing new asylum applications unless applicants have a transit visa. Home Affairs has not responded to queries on this matter.
Requirements for Asylum Seekers
Asylum seekers are required to apply for an asylum seeker's permit (also known as a Section 22 permit) in person at a Refugee Reception Office within five days of arriving in South Africa.
- Durban
- Musina
- Pretoria
- Cape Town
- Port Elizabeth
Since April 2024, access to the asylum system has been restricted to only those with a valid asylum transit visa, issued at an official port of entry, valid for five days.
No comment from Home Affairs on this matter.
Author's summary: Asylum seekers face barriers in South Africa.