Home Affairs deports nearly 110 000 undocumented immigrants
· The South African
The Department of Home Affairs has deported nearly 110 000 undocumented immigrants to their home countries over the past two financial years, marking a sharp rise in enforcement.
Acting spokesperson André Gaum, speaking on behalf of Home Affairs Minister Leon Schreiber, said authorities have increased deportations significantly since the formation of the Government of National Unity (GNU).
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He said the department and its law enforcement partners are stepping up efforts to restore the rule of law.
Annual figures show steady growth
Home Affairs increased deportations by 30% in the first year of the current administration, rising from 39 672 in 2023/24 to 51 560 in 2024/25.
Authorities then pushed the figure up by a further 12% to 57 784 in 2025/26.
In total, deportations climbed by 46% over two years, reaching 109 344 by 31 March 2026.
He added that the planned rollout of the Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) system will capture biometric data for all foreign nationals entering South Africa, making it easier to detect and arrest those in the country illegally.
Minister warns undocumented immigrants
Schreiber warned undocumented immigrants to leave the country voluntarily.
He said those who fail to do so risk arrest, deportation, and a future ban from entering South Africa legally.
He stressed that the government remains focused on both enforcement and deterrence.
Strict legal obligations for landlords and employers
The department reminded landlords and employers that the law prohibits them from assisting or accommodating undocumented foreign nationals.
[ACCOMMODATING AND HIRING ILLEGAL FOREIGN NATIONALS IS AN OFFENCE!]
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Harbouring and employing undocumented (illegal) foreign nationals is an offence punishable by law under the Immigration Act, 2002 (Act No. 13 of 2002).
No person may aid, abet, assist, enable, or in any manner… pic.twitter.com/gFnvAfhW71
Landlords must verify that tenants have valid documentation before renting out property.
Employers must ensure that foreign nationals hold valid work visas or permits and possess skills that are scarce or critical in the South African labour market.
Authorities warned that anyone who breaks these laws will face prosecution, with penalties that may include heavy fines or imprisonment.
They added that officials will arrest undocumented immigrants, process them under the law, and deport them to their countries of origin.
Public urged to verify documentation
Home Affairs urged the public to check all documentation before renting property or offering employment.
The department stressed that compliance with immigration laws is the responsibility of every landlord and employer.