This is important and overall, good news from Home Affairs
The concession has now been extended until 30 June 2027 and it is more clearly structured than the one that expired at the end of March.
But you need to understand exactly who is covered and who is not.
Who IS covered:
If you were legally admitted into South Africa and have a valid VFS receipt, the concession applies to:
- Pending waiver applications
- Pending long-term visa applications (sections 11(1)(b) – 20, including section 22)
- Pending appeal applications (for long-term visas)
If you fall into one of these categories, you may:
- Stay in South Africa legally while waiting
- Travel in and out (with the correct documents)
- Not be declared undesirable due to delays
VERY IMPORTANT — WHO IS NOT COVERED:
This is where people get into trouble.
Permanent residence applicants are NOT covered, you must keep valid status at all times. 
Short-term visitor visa appeals (section 11(1)(a)) pending longer than 3 months are EXCLUDED
These applicants MUST leave South Africa on or before 30 April 2026
You will NOT be declared undesirable if you leave by this date
TRAVEL RULES (people miss this all the time):
If you are from a visa-required country, you must apply for a port of entry visa before returning to South Africa.
For practical guidance on how this applies to you, contact us at info@dsdlaw.co.za to schedule a consultation.