VISA AND PERMIT REJECTIONS APPEALS

When an application for either a visa or a Permanent Residence Permit is rejected, the Department of Home Affairs provides a rejection letter detailing the reasons, which may include, amongst others, missing documents, non-compliance with visa requirements and/or other factors deemed relevant by the adjudicating official. It is important to note that not every adverse decision can be appealed; there must be sufficient grounds for an appeal. An appeal is effectively challenging the decision made by the Department of Home Affairs on the basis that the decision made was either erroneous or the Department of Home Affairs did not adequately consider the documentation submitted along with the application which was rejected. Once an appeal is submitted, the Department of Home Affairs has the final authority to either grant the visa or permit, including specific conditions endorsed thereon, or uphold the rejection.