The Department of Home Affairs has launched the first phase of a new Digital Asylum System aimed at reducing processing delays, clearing backlogs and strengthening the management of asylum applications in South Africa.
The announcement comes amid ongoing tensions and protests over undocumented immigration, with demonstrators in parts of the country calling for stricter immigration enforcement and action against undocumented foreign nationals.
Recent demonstrations have also raised concerns about South Africa's asylum procedures and immigration policies, placing renewed attention on the country's ability to manage asylum applications effectively.
In a statement issued on 10 November 2026, Home Affairs confirmed that the new platform is undergoing initial testing, with public registration expected to begin following a scheduled software update over the weekend of 14–15 November.
Home Affairs Minister Dr Leon Schreiber said the department intends to use digital technology, including artificial intelligence and biometric verification, to address longstanding delays in processing asylum applications and appeals.
The department emphasised that the new system would not automatically grant asylum or legal status to applicants and that immigration enforcement would continue in accordance with South African law.
The rollout marks another step in the department's broader digital transformation programme as immigration management remains a subject of public debate.