Government adopts a zero-tolerance approach as illegal immigration costs escalate to R80 million. Image Credit: Central News
(The Post News) – Illegal Immigration continues to place a significant burden on South Africa’s fiscus, with Home Affairs Minister Dr. Leon Schreiber revealing that nearly R80 million was spent in the 2024/2025 financial year on deporting undocumented foreign nationals.
This revelation came in response to a written Parliamentary question by Patriotic Alliance MP Millicent Mothapa, who requested a detailed cost breakdown for the past three financial years.
Illegal Immigration Financial Burden
According to Schreiber, South Africa spent over R32 million on deportations in the 2022/2023 financial year, rising to R67 million in 2023/2024, and now reaching R80 million in 2024/2025. During this three-year period, more than 113,000 people were deported.
The minister cautioned lawmakers against undermining deportation efforts, warning that failing to enforce immigration laws would worsen the situation dramatically. He stressed that deportations are a legal process and are necessary to protect South Africa’s sovereignty. Schreiber stated that upholding the rule of law means addressing immigration violations firmly; otherwise, the country risks sending the wrong message that it tolerates lawlessness.
Draft Bill to Amend Refugees Act
Parliament is currently reviewing a draft bill to amend the Refugees Act, ensuring visa renewals for asylum seekers comply with the Constitutional Court’s recent judgment. While the bill aims to close legal loopholes, it has reignited debates about South Africa’s role as a destination for migrants and asylum seekers.
MKP member Sihle Ngubane raised concerns about criminals from other countries using South Africa as a “safe haven,” especially in cases where fugitives flee from countries that still have the death penalty. Ngubane questioned how South Africa can prevent individuals guilty of serious crimes in their home countries from exploiting its asylum system.
The Department of Home Affairs responded that these cases require collaboration with the Department of Correctional Services and the Department of International Relations and Cooperation.
Zero-Tolerance Approach on Illegal Immigration
Minister Schreiber made it clear that South Africa must adopt a zero-tolerance policy toward illegal immigration, regardless of the fiscal strain. The cost of housing, feeding, and deporting undocumented migrants remains high, but government insists that non-enforcement would be far more costly in the long run.
About the Author
