South Africa's Parliament has called on the Department of Home Affairs to accelerate the overhaul of its migration policy, aiming to address urgent challenges and align with international standards.

Parliament’s Portfolio Committee on Home Affairs has called on the Department of Home Affairs (DHA) to accelerate the timeline for its proposed overhaul of South Africa’s migration system

Parliament’s Portfolio Committee on Home Affairs has called on the Department of Home Affairs (DHA) to accelerate the timeline for its proposed overhaul of South Africa’s migration system, urging the department to bring forward the finalisation of the Citizenship, Immigration and Refugee Protection White Paper from 2030 to 2027.

The committee received the DHA’s 2025/2030 strategic plan and its 2025/26 annual performance plan this week. Committee chairperson Mosa Chabane said the urgency stems from the country’s escalating migration challenges, which require decisive policy direction.

“Migration challenges facing the country require urgent policy direction not only to close legislative gaps but also to ensure that South Africa is in line with international protocols and obligations,” said Chabane. “It is on this basis that the committee unanimously requested the review of the 2030 target.”

The White Paper proposes a complete overhaul of South Africa’s migration system, which has long faced criticism for inefficiencies and outdated legislation. While the committee acknowledged the steps needed to align with Cabinet’s decision for a supplementary White Paper, members were clear that delays in implementation are no longer acceptable.

The committee also urged the department to accelerate its digitisation efforts, which began under the sixth administration, and commended plans for digital services such as document delivery and a fully automated electronic visa system. However, Chabane cautioned, “We want to see clear implementation timelines. Ambitious targets must be backed by realistic, time-bound plans.”

A harsh spotlight was also placed on poor contract management and planning. The committee cited the closure of DHA offices in Barberton due to the absence of security services as “unacceptable.”

“The recent suspension of services in Barberton highlights weak contract management controls. While we acknowledge budget constraints, services cannot collapse due to a basic issue like security,” said Chabane.

The committee also raised alarm over ongoing system downtimes and the department’s overreliance on the State Information Technology Agency, which has been criticised for underperformance.

The committee has called for a detailed project plan with firm timelines to implement ICT upgrades recommended by the Council for Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR).

In addition, the committee criticised the continued underfunding of the Border Management Authority, warning that “dithering on this matter undermines national security.” It welcomed moves towards using drones and body-worn cameras to reduce corruption allegations.

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South Africa crowned as the world’s friendliest nation

In a recent survey published by Remitly, South Africa has emerged as the world’s friendliest nation, scoring an impressive 34.63 out of 40 on the ‘agreeableness’ trait of the Big 5 Personality Test.

This sets a bright stage for the nation, known for its stunning landscapes, rich wildlife, and vibrant culture, as a top choice for those seeking warmth and hospitality, Cape {town} Etc reports.

Greeks follow closely behind, securing the second position with a score of 33.71.

South Africa’s distinctive charm can largely be attributed to its diverse population and the country’s emphasis on community and relationships.

Positioned at the southernmost point of Africa between two oceans, this nation not only boasts breathtaking scenery but also allows for a higher standard of living, thanks to an affordable cost of living where the South African rand goes a long way.

Residents of South Africa are often noted for their open-hearted nature. Visitors frequently describe experiences of being greeted by warm smiles and polite strangers, a testament to the nation’s rich tradition of friendliness.

‘The social fabric of the country is woven with moments of humour and lively conversations, ensuring that both residents and travellers feel at home,’ the survey stated.

Moreover, the linguistic diversity in South Africa, with eleven official languages including English, Afrikaans, and various ethnic languages further enhances the ease with which people can communicate and form connections.

This multilingual environment supports an enriching intercultural dialogue, enabling friendships that transcend language barriers.

In addition to its hospitable people, South Africa offers an incredible array of wildlife and a warm climate, ideal for those who wish to explore its magnificent coastline and natural wonders.

‘These features not only embellish the country’s appeal but also contribute to its standing as a global leader in agreeableness,’ the study concluded.

Omotoso, who was acquitted in a botched prosecution of sexually assaulting young women in his church, has not been deported – despite what the National Prosecuting Authority said.

The Department of Home Affairs confirmed on Tuesday, 22 April that the controversial televangelist Timothy Omotoso was not deported from South Africa after his acquittal on charges of sexual assault, rape and human trafficking.

“No, the Department has not deported Timothy Omotoso. The Department has noted the public interest in the matter involving Omotoso. The issues relating to the status of Omotoso in South Africa are being reviewed by the Department, as directed by the court,” Home Affairs spokesperson Siya Qoza said.

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Omotoso, who was acquitted in a botched prosecution of sexually assaulting young women in his church, has not been deported – despite what the National Prosecuting Authority said.

The Department of Home Affairs confirmed on Tuesday, 22 April that the controversial televangelist Timothy Omotoso was not deported from South Africa after his acquittal on charges of sexual assault, rape and human trafficking.

“No, the Department has not deported Timothy Omotoso. The Department has noted the public interest in the matter involving Omotoso. The issues relating to the status of Omotoso in South Africa are being reviewed by the Department, as directed by the court,” Home Affairs spokesperson Siya Qoza said.

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An order issued by the Ministry of Home Affairs’ foreigners division stated that no new visas will be issued to Pakistani citizens across 14 categories

India suspends visas for Pakistanis across 14 categories, warns of legal action for overstays

India on Friday suspended all visa services for Pakistani nationals with immediate effect, revoking all existing valid visas except for long-term, diplomatic, and official visas. The move is part of a series of strict diplomatic measures announced after Pakistani linkages emerged in the Pahalgam terror attack earlier this week, which killed 26 civilians.

An order issued by the Ministry of Home Affairs’ foreigners division stated that no new visas will be issued to Pakistani citizens across 14 categories. These include SAARC visa, visa on arrival, business visa, film visa, journalist visa, transit visa, medical visa, conference visa, mountaineering visa, student visa, visitor visa, group tourist visa, pilgrim visa, and group pilgrim visa issued to minorities of Pakistan.

The order also laid out deadlines for Pakistani nationals currently in India to exit the country. Holders of visas under the 12 categories mentioned must leave by April 27, SAARC visa holders by April 26, and medical visa holders by April 29. Failure to leave India by the specified deadlines will lead to individuals being treated as overstaying foreign nationals and facing legal action under the newly enacted Immigration & Foreigners Act, 2025.

Diplomatic and official visa holders have been exempted from these exit deadlines, with their cases to be handled separately by the Ministry of External Affairs. Long-term visas issued to Pakistani citizens will also remain valid, and India clarified that there will be no restrictions on the issuance of new diplomatic, official, or long-term visas.

The decision marks one of the harshest diplomatic steps taken by India in recent years against Pakistan. It follows a raft of measures that include suspension of the Indus Waters Treaty, expulsion of Pakistani military attaches, and closure of the Attari land transit post, as tensions escalate sharply in the aftermath of the Pahalgam terror attack.

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The Hajj season has officially begun, and Saudi authorities have imposed a ban on entry into Makkah without a valid permit starting Wednesday, April 23.

According to the General Directorate of Passports (Jawazat), the Ministry of Interior has launched a new “Tasreeh Portal” on the Absher and Muqeem platforms, allowing residents to obtain official Makkah entry permits.

Under the new regulations, residents of the Kingdom will not be allowed to enter the holy city unless they possess one of the following: a valid work permit for Makkah, a residency permit (Iqama) issued in Makkah, or an official Hajj permit.

The Ministry of Interior has stated that anyone attempting to enter the city without proper documentation will be turned back at security checkpoints.

Meanwhile, the Ministry of Hajj has warned foreign pilgrims on Umrah visas to return to their home countries before their visa expires. It emphasised that performing Hajj on an Umrah visa is strictly prohibited.

The new measures are part of the Kingdom’s efforts to ensure the smooth organisation of the Hajj pilgrimage and full enforcement of this year’s regulations.

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