On 25 December 2025, the Department of Home Affairs published the Draft Revised White Paper on Citizenship, Immigration and Refugee Protection (Government Gazette No. 53853). This document outlines the Department’s proposed changes to South Africa’s citizenship, immigration and refugee protection systems and provides insight into how the relevant laws and processes may change at some point.
If the proposed changes are approved, this could result in amendments to the Immigration Act 13 of 2002 and its Regulations.
Key Objectives of the Draft White Paper:
1. Policy Alignment
The Draft White Paper seeks to align South Africa’s citizenship, civil registration, immigration and refugee protection policies with the National Development Plan (South Africa’s long-term development framework), key government priorities, and relevant regional and international commitments.
2. Digital Transformation
It proposes the digital transformation of citizenship, civil registration and immigration processes and services to improve accessibility, efficiency and administrative coordination.
3. Structured Pathways
The Draft White Paper introduces clear and structured pathways for individuals seeking citizenship, temporary or permanent residence, and refugee protection. This means that the rules and processes for applying, qualifying, and obtaining these statuses are expected to become more transparent and easier to follow.
4. Institutional Reform
It provides for institutional reforms aimed at improving efficiency, accountability and compliance with constitutional principles, including the rule of law and human rights.