South Africa’s asylum system is reopening to new applicants after a Constitutional Court ruling struck down laws that had blocked many asylum seekers from accessing the system. Home Affairs says Refugee Reception Offices must now accept applications from everyone, including those who entered the country without a visa.

The National Briefing · Oct 7, 2026 · 6m

South Africa’s asylum system is reopening to new applicants after a Constitutional Court ruling struck down laws that had blocked many asylum seekers from accessing the system. Home Affairs says Refugee Reception Offices must now accept applications from everyone, including those who entered the country without a visa. But concerns remain about capacity, long waiting periods and whether applications will be properly considered.

Guest: James Chapman, Head of Advocacy and Legal Advisor at Scalabrini Centre of Cape Town.