With 2025 barely underway, Cape Town continues to lead the globe with another accolade!The City ranked in the number one spot as the best long-haul city break in the world for Brits.In a Which? survey of over 1 500 members, British travellers ranked their experiences in cities outside Europe over the past year and Cape Town took the crown.Almost 2 500 destinations were rated across seven measures: food and drink, accommodation, cultural and tourist attractions, shopping, ease of getting around, lack of crowds and value for money.Cape Towns unbeatable mix of adventure, culture and affordability outshone all the others, including hotspots like Tokyo, Sydney, Dubai and Los Angeles.Rory Boland, editor of Which? Travel, summed it up, saying, some cities are one-trick ponies but the standout destinations in this yeas survey have it all  each offering unique cultural sights, top-class food and drink, and even sublime scenery. And Cape Town, with its breathtaking landscapes and vibrant city life, proved its got the whole package.This latest win follows its recent title as Time Outs Best City in the World, reaffirming that Cape Town isnt just a top destination  its the place to be in 2025!According to the ranking, Cape Town stands out for its stunning natural beauty, top-tier food and wine, and incredible value for money.Whether youre sipping sundowners on Signal Hill, enjoying the freshest fish and chips in Hout Bay, or diving into the thriving nightlife, Cape Town delivers world-class experiences without the hefty price tag of other top global spots.One British traveller shared, Cape Town is probably the world holiday destination where your pound will go furthest. Enver Duminy, the CEO of Cape Town Tourism, said with a grin, Cape Town isnt just a place  it=s a living, breathing masterpiece of art, culture, and heritage. Heres the secret we Capetonians have been quietly enjoying (but were ready to let you in on it): Our art scene? Its not just good; its world-class, and weve got galleries and street art thatll make your Instagram explode. And as for our history? Lets just say Cape Towns past isnt something you read in a guidebook  its an experience you feel the moment you walk through our streets. But hey, the only way to really get it is to come see for yourself. Weve been keeping the secret long enough!James Vos, mayoral committee member for Economic Growth, emphasises how Cape Towns recognition as a global leader in travel isnt just about tourism  its a vital driver for economic and job growth. What makes Cape Town so special is that its not just a place to visit  its a place to experience. One minute, youre hiking up Lions Head; the next, youre sipping award-winning wine in Durbanville; and by evening, youre enjoying fresh seafood with an ocean view. The best part? It contributes directly to our local economy, creating thousands of jobs and stimulating growth. You can do it all and still have room in your pocket for moreCape Town continues to show why its a global favourite not just in the eyes of locals but also in the voices of travellers worldwide.Capetonians have always known their city is extraordinary but now, the world is making it official.With back-to-back global wins and glowing reviews from international visitors, Cape Town isnt just a must-visit destination  its the city everyone is talking about.

South African Life Partner Visa - Key Documentation RequirementsApplying for a South African Life Partner Visa requires substantial evidence to demonstrate the authenticity and permanence of your relationship with a South African citizen or permanent resident. The Department of Home Affairs mandates that applicants provide proof of a committed, long-term partnership characterized by mutual financial and emotional support, as well as cohabitation.Key Documentation Requirements:1.Proof of Cohabitation:oJoint Lease or Rental Agreements: Documents indicating shared residential arrangements.oUtility Bills: Statements bearing both partners` names, confirming a shared address.oCorrespondence: Official letters or mail addressed to both partners at the same residence.2.Financial Interdependence:oJoint Bank Account Statements: Records showing shared financial management.oShared Financial Responsibilities: Evidence of joint investments, loans, or shared expenses.3.Duration of Relationship:oAffidavit of Life Partnership: A notarized declaration affirming the existence and duration of the relationship.oNotarial Cohabitation Agreement: A legal document outlining the terms of cohabitation and mutual commitment.4.Emotional Commitment:oPhotographs: Images capturing shared experiences and significant moments together.oAffidavits from Friends and Family: Statements supporting the legitimacy and permanence of the relationship.5.Identification and Legal Documents:oCertified Copies of IDs or Passports: Identification documents of both partners.oPolice Clearance Certificates: Background checks from countries where the applicant has resided.oMedical Reports: Health assessments as required by immigration authorities.6.Supportive Evidence:oLetters of Support: Correspondence from employers, community leaders, or organizations attesting to the relationship`s authenticity.oShared Travel Itineraries: Proof of joint vacations or trips, indicating a committed partnership.Important Considerations: Minimum Duration: Applicants must demonstrate that the relationship has been genuine and in existence for at least two years prior to the application.Permanent Residence Eligibility: After five years of proven cohabitation and a sustained relationship, applicants may qualify for permanent residency. Interviews: Both partners may be required to attend interviews to further substantiate the legitimacy of their relationship.It`s crucial to ensure that all documentation is thorough, accurate, and up-to-date to avoid delays or potential rejection of the visa application. Given the complexities involved, consulting with immigration professionals or legal experts is advisable to navigate the process effectively.How can we help you , please email us to info@samigration.com whatsapp message me on:  +27 82 373 8415, where are you now? check our website : www.samigration.comPlease rate us by clinking on this links : Sa Migration Visashttps://g.page/SAMigration?gm

The department of home affairs is urging South Africans to ditch their green barcoded IDs for smart ID cards.In recent months, there have been reports of stolen identities which include the arrest of two undocumented Mozambican nationals in connection with the manufacturing and selling of fake IDs at the home affairs office in Centurion, Pretoria. The matter lifted a lid on the alleged documents-for-cash scheme believed to be happening at some home affairs offices. Home affairs deputy minister Njabulo Nzuza explains why the move to smart IDs is safer and more secure for citizens. Sowetan: What are security concerns associated with green IDs?Nzuza: The green barcoded ID is not secure because it is susceptible to fraud. The person who steals an identity would go to a shop, take your ID book and open an account. The person would also borrow money from loan sharks. Previously, you would have a picture swap when it comes to identity documents [but] if you have a smart ID, no one can swap your face because it is captured centrally by us and it goes with the capturing of your biometrics.Sowetan: Is there a timeline on when green ID books will be phased out?Nzuza: We have not issued a timeline but we are in the process of planning to phase them out. What we intend on doing is to stop issuing them. Sowetan: What benefits do smart IDs offer over the green barcoded ones?Nzuza: It is secure and easily adaptable to the new technology that the department is moving towards. For those who do not have a smart ID card, it [will] become a problem for you to access benefits that are going to come in the future as we are building digital-first home affairs.SRD beneficiaries need an ID card, not a green ID book, to complete verification process. Sowetan: Is this extended to permanent residents? Nzuza: We have a plan in place for permanent residents and naturalised citizens to make sure that they also get smart ID cards. I will just have to check how far the process is now but there is a decision that [they] must move to smart ID cards.Sowetan: Do banks still offer this service? Nzuza: We are in partnership with the banks, in fact, we are looking at growing our footprint with the banks, to have more banks enrolled so that we can reach out to more people without having to build structures of home affairs.

A foreign applicant was apprehended at the South African Council for Educators (SACE) head office for submitting a fraudulent letter from the Department of Home Affairs. The individual attempted to use the bogus document to apply for SACE certification.Staff at the SACE office discovered the forgery and promptly notified the authorities. The woman was detained while awaiting the arrival of law enforcement. Foreign National Arrested at SACE Head Office for Submitting Fake DocumentationA foreign applicant was apprehended at the South African Council for Educators (SACE) head office for submitting a fraudulent letter from the Department of Home Affairs. The individual attempted to use the bogus document to apply for SACE certification.Staff at the SACE office discovered the forgery and promptly notified the authorities. The woman was detained while awaiting the arrival of law enforcement. #breakingnews #saps #southafrica #departmentofeducation #homeaffairs