South Africa: Increased Immigration Enforcement Actions Targeting Undocumented Foreign Workers
July 1, 2026
Due to the recent anti-illegal immigration stance by various organizations in South Africa, Fragomen Africa has observed an increase in inspections and enforcement actions targeting the employment of undocumented foreign nationals who either lack a valid visa to enter and remain in the country, or are working under an incorrect visa type. Foreign nationals found to be in the country without a valid visa are being deported. Employers found to be employing foreign nationals without a visa, or without the correct visa, are fined.
While this does not reflect a change in immigration laws or employer obligations, it serves as a reminder for employers and foreign nationals to remain compliant with existing immigration requirements.
Employers that hire foreign nationals should ensure that their employees hold the appropriate immigration status and, where appropriate, engage an immigration professional to conduct an immigration compliance audit.
This alert is for informational purposes only. If you have any questions, please contact the immigration professional with whom you work at Fragomen.
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