STATEMENT ON SOUTH AFRICA'S NEW IMMIGRATION POLICIES

The FW de Klerk Foundation has learned that international students may be prevented from studying at South African universities by the Department of Home Affairs' new immigration policies. Students who have been accepted by, or are waiting to hear from, universities in South Africa are, with the best will in the world, finding it impossible to obtain study permits in time to commence their studies in February next year. 

The amount of time between the receipt of a letter of acceptance from universities and the starting date of studies is insufficient to obtain all the new documentation needed to apply for a study permit. For example, American students are now required by the Department of Home Affairs to have an FBI clearance, which takes 12 weeks to process - leaving them with no time to apply for a study permit.

This is another example of how the new immigration policies are negatively effecting South Africa's economy, its relations with other countries and the lives of ordinary people. It is unacceptable that students who have worked hard to be accepted by universities in South Africa are unable to receive their study permits in time to start their studies.

The Department of Home Affairs should understand that its proper role is to serve members of the public by ensuring, quickly and effectively, that they are in possession of whatever documentation they may require to comply with reasonable laws and regulations. It is not the Department's place to interfere gratuitously, bureaucratically and arrogantly in the lives of ordinary people.

Statement issued by Dave Steward: Executive Director, FW de Klerk Foundation, November 28 2014

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