South Africa’s Department of Home Affairs is preparing to introduce a new online registration and appointment system for asylum seekers by 10 November 2026, in a move aimed at reducing overcrowding, improving application processing and strengthening immigration management. According to the department, the platform will allow people to register their intention to apply for asylum before receiving an appointment at a Refugee Reception Office.
The announcement follows a Constitutional Court ruling in July 2026 concerning access to the asylum application process. The ruling was followed by a surge in people visiting refugee offices, resulting in long queues, administrative pressure and protests in areas including Durban and Soweto. Home Affairs subsequently withdrew an earlier directive after offices struggled to manage the number of applicants.
Under the proposed system, applicants will be able to submit their details online and receive an electronic receipt containing their personal information, biometric details, reference number and appointment date. People who need assistance will be able to register at Refugee Reception Offices, with support also planned for those in police or immigration detention.
The department says biometric information will help officials verify identities, check travel documents and identify previous applications, including rejected claims. The changes are intended to improve efficiency while helping authorities detect fraud and prevent abuse of the asylum system.
Importantly, the electronic receipt will not be a visa or proof that someone has been granted refugee status. Each application will still need to be assessed under South African law. Government has also indicated that people who have registered their intention to apply will be protected against removal while awaiting the opportunity to lodge their applications, in line with the law.
The new system forms part of broader efforts to manage migration while complying with the Constitutional Court’s ruling. Its success will depend on how effectively the department implements the platform, manages appointments and addresses existing processing delays.
Main image: Times Live
