South Africa seeks reimbursement from Malawi, Nigeria, and Ethiopia for repatriation costs

This follows anti-illegal immigrant protests in South Africa, which led to several countries evacuating their nationals. As of August 6, 2026, at least 82,875 foreign nationals had been processed at repatriation centers, excluding those processed by the Border Management Authority or repatriated before June 30. Home Affairs Director-General Tommy Makhode stated that the department spent R292 million on the repatriation process, primarily on buses for transport to centers.

The department confirmed that 44,607 foreign nationals were deported from the Lindela repatriation center in the previous financial year, and 16,078 between April 20 and July 28 this year. Malawians constituted the largest group of deportees in both periods. The department also noted that 28,737 cases were handled by dedicated immigration courts, with Gauteng having the highest number.

Foreigners overstaying by 30 days or more are declared undesirable, facing bans of one year for 30-day overstays and two to five years for longer periods. In the previous year, 63,090 foreign nationals were declared undesirable, compared to 20,340 so far this year. The repatriations were unfunded, exceeding the department's budget.