Published: 25.08.2026
The government announced stronger enforcement of immigration and labour laws, including the identification and deportation of undocumented foreign nationals. It also outlined reforms to migration governance, expanded legal migration pathways and dedicated immigration courts.
According to official sources, South Africa is both tightening enforcement of existing immigration rules and reforming its migration governance framework. In the longer term, lawful status, valid work authorisation and compliance with stay conditions will become increasingly important; deportation and tougher measures against non-compliant employers have been announced. The development primarily affects undocumented foreigners, workers and employers hiring migrants. People planning a move should follow it because it sets the direction of migration policy, although no timetable is given for the individual reforms.