Immigration law changes to affect many foreigners in Joburg

Windsor’s foreign residents are enraged by the impending new immigration laws.

“I have five children and have been saving money for my wife to come over, but now it seems that it will be impossible. I don’t know why they are doing this because we keep this country steady with our hard work,” complained Nwandike Uko, a Nigerian national who has been in the country for five years.

Some of the published policy changes that have most angered of these immigrants are:

-All visas must be applied for in person and from the applicant’s home country;

-Holders of visitors’ visas and medical treatment visas may not apply for a different visa from within the country;

-Exceptional skills permits no long exist;

-Life partners to prove relationship existence of at least five years.

Keitumetse Morotolo is a South African citizen in a relationship with a Zambian national and said: “I want my girlfriend to come and stay with me, but we have only been dating for a year. Five years is just despicable”.

“We were given four-year permits that expire next year and now they are making these changes to ensure we don’t get renewals and they will deport us” said Mthokozisi Moyo a Zimbabwean national.

Head of the Johannesburg Department of Home Affairs Khehla Miya said the act is final as it has already been signed.

Subsequent to its signing, “the act was for the second time in February put up online for all those who wanted to comment to do so. At this point everyone has had a chance to do so and no one can complain,” Miya added.

“All comments made by the public will be looked at closely and considered before a final document is published,” Miya assured.

“Even if we object to this, they will not listen. Home will be calling soon,” a resigned Congolese immigrant Thomas Osei said.

“Maybe there are too many foreigners in the country, but they should let us stay because South Africa is the USA of Africa,”.

Miya said he was unaware of why these changes are being made.

Hundreds of foreigners live in Windsor and might be affected by these changes.

Details: DHA: 011 639 4242