Ramaphosa unveils comprehensive plan to tackle illegal immigration

President Cyril Ramaphosa has outlined a comprehensive government strategy aimed at addressing illegal immigration, strengthening border security, and restoring public confidence in South Africa's immigration system.

In a national address on Sunday evening, Ramaphosa acknowledged growing public concerns about illegal immigration, unemployment, pressure on public services, crime, and the enforcement of immigration laws. He said these concerns were legitimate and required decisive government action.

The President stressed that while illegal immigration presents challenges, it is not the sole cause of South Africa's economic difficulties. He said sustainable economic growth, investment, infrastructure development and job creation remain critical to addressing unemployment and poverty.

Ramaphosa announced that government will intensify efforts to identify and deport undocumented foreign nationals, strengthen border management, and establish dedicated immigration courts to speed up deportation processes.

Authorities will also increase inspections of businesses employing undocumented workers, while employers found violating immigration and labour laws could face harsher penalties, including imprisonment.

To improve border security, government will continue investing in technology, infrastructure and personnel. Refugee reception centres will gradually be relocated closer to border posts, beginning with the Tshwane centre, to improve the processing of asylum applications.

The President also announced measures to combat corruption within the Department of Home Affairs, including the development of an Intelligent Population Register with biometric data and the gradual phasing out of green ID books, which have been linked to identity fraud.

Government has further approved the National Labour Migration Policy and plans to introduce legislation allowing sector-specific quotas for the employment of foreign nationals. Support programmes for South African informal businesses, including spaza shop operators, will also be expanded.

Ramaphosa warned against xenophobia, vigilantism and the spread of misinformation, emphasising that only authorised government officials have the power to enforce immigration laws.

He said South Africa would continue working with regional partners through SADC and the African Union to address the root causes of migration, including poverty, conflict and lack of economic opportunities.

The President reaffirmed government's commitment to enforcing immigration laws while protecting human dignity, constitutional rights and South Africa's international obligations.