The Department of Home Affairs has published updated prescribed turnaround times for various visa and permit-related services, providing applicants with greater certainty regarding expected processing periods.
It is important to note that these turnaround times are calculated in working days, not calendar days. Weekends and South African public holidays are therefore excluded. For example, a turnaround time of 60 working days will generally equate to approximately three calendar months, while 120 working days may take approximately six calendar months.
Although these published turnaround times improve transparency and accountability, they remain administrative benchmarks rather than guaranteed processing deadlines. Delays may still occur due to additional verification, requests for outstanding documents or operational backlogs.
Applicants should therefore submit their applications well before the expiry of their current immigration status and ensure that all supporting documentation is complete and accurate.
If you require assistance with a visa, permanent residence, waiver or appeal application, MA Malan Attorneys can guide you through every stage of the application process and advise you on the applicable processing timeframes.
If your application has remained pending beyond the Department of Home Affairs’ published turnaround time, we can assess your matter and, where appropriate, assist you in expediting your application by instituting proceedings in the High Court of South Africa.