The Department of Home Affairs has again extended the validity period of short terms visas issued for a period of not longer than 90 days, such as a Tourist Visa, that expired during the lockdown until the 30^th September 2021. The previous extension was until the 30^th June 2021.

Accordingly, those persons that arrived in South Africa on visitors visas between December 2019 and the 14^th March 2021, and have not departed South Africa since their arrival may legally remain in South Africa until the 30^th September 2021.

Such persons may also depart from South Africa prior to the 30^th September 2021 without being declared undesirable upon their departure despite the fact that their visas may have expired.

The validity period of long term visas that expired during the lockdown period has also been extended until the 30^th September 2021. Those persons that are on long term visas and wish to renew their long term visas must submit renewal applications prior to the 30^th September 2021.

It is important to note that the above extension until the 30^th September 2021 does not apply to persons that arrived in South Africa on or after the 15^th March 2021. The normal validity period of their visas will apply to such persons.

It is further critical to note that all persons must adhere to the terms and conditions of their visas and any activity not endorsed onto such visa or permits is prohibited.