World Immigration News

(BBC)South Africa's president unveils crackdown on illegal migration

Release Date: 2026-06-08
Media: BBC
Summary: South African President Cyril Ramaphosa announced a series of measures to crack down on illegal migration amid growing anti-foreigner sentiment, high unemployment, and rising tensions across the country.

The government's strategy includes stricter enforcement of immigration laws, stronger border security, tougher penalties for employers who hire undocumented migrants, dedicated courts to accelerate deportations, anti-corruption measures within the immigration system, and closer cooperation with other African countries. The government also plans to introduce a nationwide biometric registration system, phase out green ID books, relocate refugee reception centers to border areas, and establish quotas for foreign workers in certain sectors.

At the same time, Ramaphosa warned against vigilantism and xenophobia, stressing that only authorized government officials may enforce immigration laws. He condemned violence, intimidation, and misinformation targeting foreign nationals, emphasizing that South Africa is a nation shaped by migration and diversity.

The announcement comes as anti-migrant groups demand undocumented migrants leave the country by June 30, while several African governments have begun evacuating their citizens amid fears of violence. Hundreds of migrants have fled their homes in recent weeks, and some have returned to their home countries.

Ramaphosa acknowledged that illegal migration places pressure on public services and can be linked to organized crime and corruption. However, he argued that the solution lies in lawful enforcement rather than discrimination, expressing hope that the new measures will help build a more secure, lawful, compassionate, and prosperous South Africa.
Tags: South Africa

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