Update (For input) Circular 01:- DRAFT REVISED WHITE PAPER ON CITIZENSHIP, IMMIGRATION AND REFUGEE PROTECTION | American Chamber of Commerce in South Africa

January 20, 2026

Honourable Minister of Home Affairs, Dr L. A. Schreiber, has published the Draft Revised White Paper on Citizenship, Immigration and Refugee Protection("White Paper") for public comment.

This White Paper reaffirms the Department of Home Affairs’ mandate to safeguard national sovereignty, public security, and the interests of South Africa and its people. At the same time, it seeks to attract foreign investment and skills, promote tourism, and ensure international protection in line with the South African Constitution and global obligations. The overarching policy perspective is to position the citizenship and immigration system as an economic enabler that protects national interests. The proposed reforms focus on:

Aligning South Africa’s citizenship, civil registration, immigration, and refugee protection policies with the National Development Plan, government priorities, and key regional and international commitments.
Driving digital transformation across civil registration and immigration processes and services.
Establishing structured pathways for citizenship, residency, and refugee protection.
Implementing institutional reforms to enhance efficiency, accountability, and adherence to the rule of law and human rights.

Draft Revised White Paper on Citizenship, Immigration, and Refugee Protection for ease of reference.

Members are kindly requested to submit their comments to Tsakane Muavha at Tsakane.Muavha@busa.org.za or Mahlatse Mabila at Mahlatse.Mabila@busa.org.za by Tuesday, 3 February 2026.