Dear Valued Clients and Colleagues,
As we bid farewell to 2023, we want to express our heartfelt gratitude for your unwavering support throughout the year. Your trust in our services has been the driving force behind our success, and we are truly grateful for the privilege to represent each and every one of our clients.
1. Department of Home Affairs Challenges: Undoubtedly, 2023 presented its fair share of challenges, particularly with the deplorable delays in processing visa and permanent residence applications by the Department of Home Affairs. These delays, as well as the ongoing backlog, have tested our patience. However, your understanding and patience have been invaluable during these trying times.
2. Major Immigration Developments in 2023: Amidst the challenges, significant developments in Immigration Law and Home Affairs matters shaped the landscape in South Africa during 2023:
- A new critical skills work visa list was unveiled, paving the way for skilled professionals in various fields.
- Holders of ZEP and LEP permits were granted an extension until November 2024 to renew their permits, providing a crucial grace period until December 2025.
- The Constitutional Court delivered a landmark judgment, affirming the right of foreign national parents of South African children to work in the country to support their families.
3. Successful Submissions via the VFS Mobile Unit at our offices: The introduction of the VFS mobile unit resulted in our firm being able to achieve great success in the submission of visa and permanent residence permit applications in the convenience of our offices. We are eager to continue this success in 2024. Click here for more information on the VFS mobile unit.
4. E-visa applications: We are delighted to announce that we have successfully assisted clients with applying for and obtaining visas via the newly enrolled Home Affairs e-visa system during 2023. We look forward to assisting more clients to pursue their visa applications by way of the e-visa system in 2024.
5. High Court Interventions: We are proud to have assisted countless clients in expediting their long outstanding applications with Home Affairs by approaching the High Court of South Africa. This proactive approach has proven effective in navigating bureaucratic challenges and achieving positive outcomes for our clients.
6. Website Updates and Achievements: Our commitment to transparency and client satisfaction is reflected in the updates to our website. Explore the new sections under “Testimonials” and “News” that showcase our achievements and the positive impact we’ve had on our clients’ lives. Visit our website for more details.
As we reflect on the year, we extend our deepest gratitude for your support.
Please note that our office will be closed from 22 December 2023 and will re-open on 8 January 2024.
Wishing you a joyous festive season filled with warmth and happiness. For those embarking on travels, may your journeys be safe and enriching.
Thank you once again for entrusting MA Malan Attorneys with your immigration needs.
Kind regards,
MARCUS A MALAN
Managing Director