The Department of Home Affairs has announced the recruitment of 301 additional Immigration Officers, increasing the frontline workforce from 868 to 1 169, a 35% growth.This expansion aims to strengthen border management and the rule of law, despite ongoing resource constraints.Funding is sourced through internal reprioritisation and ongoing discussions with National Treasury for digital transformation.

Minister Leon Schreiber highlighted the need for a modern, technology-driven immigration system, emphasizing the use of Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) and biometric verification to enhance enforcement.The new officers will work alongside technological interventions to improve lawful entry management.

Schreiber also noted over 37 000 repatriations since the comprehensive migration approach was introduced, with operations continuing at the Musina repatriation centre.The recruitment supports government's goal of creating a secure, digital immigration system while addressing long-standing personnel shortages.