‘Get Legal or Leave South Africa’: Helen Zille Delivers Tough Message to Undocumented Foreigners

Helen Zille has reaffirmed the Democratic Alliance’s (DA) tough stance on illegal immigration, saying foreign nationals living in South Africa without valid documentation must either take the necessary legal steps to regularise their stay or leave the country.

Her remarks come amid growing public debate over immigration, border control, unemployment, crime and the increasing pressure on South Africa’s public services.

The DA Federal Chairperson has rejected suggestions that she supports allowing undocumented foreign nationals to remain in the country without restrictions. She maintains that South Africa’s immigration laws must be respected and properly enforced.

However, Zille has previously indicated that some foreign nationals, including Zimbabwe Exemption Permit (ZEP) holders, should be given an opportunity to obtain legal status through the appropriate immigration procedures.

She believes that foreign nationals who contribute positively to the country’s economy should have access to an effective system that allows eligible individuals to apply for lawful residence.

Her position has become increasingly firm in recent months. In March 2026, Zille called for undocumented foreign nationals to be arrested, prosecuted and deported, particularly those allegedly involved in organised criminal activities.

She also raised concerns about illegal immigration in connection with hijacked buildings and criminal syndicates operating in Johannesburg.

During a June 2026 interview, Zille reiterated that foreign nationals who are legally in South Africa must have their rights protected. However, those without valid immigration status must follow the prescribed legal procedures.

She also made it clear that concerns about illegal immigration should never be used to justify violence, intimidation or xenophobic attacks against foreign nationals.

The DA’s immigration policy similarly advocates stronger border controls, effective enforcement of the Immigration Act, improved immigration administration and respect for human rights.

Essentially, Zille is not calling for every undocumented foreign national to automatically receive permanent residency. Instead, she supports legal pathways for those who qualify, while maintaining that individuals who cannot secure lawful status must leave the country through established procedures.

The immigration debate is expected to remain a major political issue in South Africa as concerns over border security, unemployment, crime and pressure on public resources continue to grow.

https://x.com/zeema_kay/status/2118590865958744395

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