https://legal.excellentwiki.com/south-africa/immigration-law/Recent content in Immigration Law on ExcellentWiki - Legal EncyclopediaHugoen-USTue, 07 Jul 2026 00:00:00 +0000https://legal.excellentwiki.com/south-africa/immigration-law/south-africa-immigration-law/Tue, 07 Jul 2026 00:00:00 +0000https://legal.excellentwiki.com/south-africa/immigration-law/south-africa-immigration-law/<h2 id="introduction">Introduction</h2> <p>South African immigration law governs the admission, residence, and removal of foreign nationals, as well as the acquisition and loss of citizenship. The primary legislation is the Immigration Act 13 of 2002, which replaced the Aliens Control Act. The Refugees Act 130 of 1998 governs asylum and refugee protection. The Constitution, particularly the rights to dignity, equality, and freedom and security, constrains immigration law and policy.</p> <h2 id="the-immigration-act-2002">The Immigration Act 2002</h2> <p>The Immigration Act regulates the admission of foreign nationals to South Africa, the issuance of visas and permits, and the removal of illegal foreign nationals. The Act distinguishes between temporary residence (visits, work, study, business) and permanent residence. The Department of Home Affairs is the administering authority, supported by the Immigration Advisory Board.</p>