South Africa's migrant exodus and crackdown raise economic and labour concerns

Anti‑illegal immigration groups set a June 30 deadline for undocumented foreigners to leave South Africa, prompting thousands of migrants – particularly Zimbabweans and Malawians – to scramble for exit routes. Queues formed at consulates in Durban, Pietermaritzburg and Cape Town, with reports of inadequate facilities and harsh weather. Small‑scale clashes occurred during protests, and President Cyril Ramaphosa met anti‑immigrant leaders urging peaceful marches. Analysts warn the sudden loss of migrant labour could create a significant economic shock, though the exact scale remains uncertain; Statistics South Africa estimated 3.2 million foreign migrants in 2022.

The Department of Employment and Labour announced that employers hiring illegal foreign workers face fines up to R100 000 per worker, alongside possible criminal charges. Inspections have intensified in sectors such as agriculture, construction, hospitality and domestic work, aiming to protect the local labour market and deter exploitation.

Separately, Home Affairs released an updated Critical Skills List for information‑technology occupations, offering a pathway for qualified foreign professionals to obtain work visas and, eventually, permanent residence. Roles include data scientist, software developer, ICT security specialist and network engineer, among others.