Home Affairs officials allegedly took kickbacks from foreign nationals to ignore fraudulent supporting documents and approve visas for applicants who did not qualify, the Special Investigating Unit (SIU) has revealed.
The SIU has confirmed that 205 visas have been flagged for revocation and deportation after being obtained using fraudulent supporting documents. It has also made seven disciplinary referrals, including against employees who have since left the Department of Home Affairs.
SIU spokesperson Selby Makgotho said the investigation remains ongoing, with the possibility of further officials being implicated.
“As more employees are implicated and identified, the SIU will make the necessary referrals in due course.”
The revelations follow the SIU’s investigation into serious maladministration, fraud and corruption in Home Affairs’ immigration and visa processes. The probe, authorised under Proclamation 154 of 2024, covers almost two decades of visa and permit administration and has examined categories including work, study, business, critical-skills and permanent-residence applications.
