Proposed amendments to South Africa’s immigration laws and policies

On 12 December 2025, the Department of Home Affairs (DHA) published the Draft Revised White Paper on Citizenship, Immigration and Refugee Protection (CIRP) and extended the public comment period to 15 February 2026. The white paper proposes changes to modernize South Africa’s immigration framework to align it with constitutional principles, enhance digital systems, attract foreign talent and investment, streamline mobility, improve civil registration and uphold a humane, constitutional refugee system.

A Tax Alert prepared by EY's People Advisory Services, and attached below, provides additional details.

Download this Immigration Alert