Definition

Department of Home Affairs — the South African government department responsible for immigration, civic services, and identification.

DHA — Department of Home Affairs

The Department of Home Affairs (DHA) is the South African government body responsible for managing immigration, issuing identification documents, and providing civic services such as birth, marriage, and death registration.

Role in Immigration

DHA adjudicates all visa and permit applications submitted by foreign nationals. It sets immigration policy, maintains the Critical Skills List, and oversees compliance with the Immigration Act (Act 13 of 2002).

How Applications Are Submitted

Since 2014, most visa applications in South Africa are submitted through VFS Global offices, which act as a service intermediary between applicants and DHA. DHA retains final decision-making authority on all applications.

Key Contact Points

  • VFS Global offices (in-country applications)
  • South African embassies and consulates (applications from abroad)
  • DHA head office in Pretoria (appeals and special cases)

Related Terms

VFS Global

Visa Facilitation Services — the outsourced service provider that handles visa application submissions on behalf of DHA in South Africa.

Immigration Act

The Immigration Act 13 of 2002 — South Africa's primary legislation governing the entry, residence, and departure of foreign nationals.

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