In particular, comments from the US (US) have led to growing interest in relocation.
Nicholas Avramis, immigration consultant for Beaver Immigration, shared insights on the issue and provided important advice to South Africans as they consider their future abroad.
“When making an asylum claim, it is essential to prove a well-founded fear of persecution and harm through torture and cruelty,” Avramis explained. “The SA and Canada are both signatories of the 1951 Refugee Convention, but SA has not ratified it completely, meaning international procedures dominate the process.”
The growing interest in seeking evacuation to the US has sparked concerns due to the lack of clarity surrounding new policies. According to Avramis, US asylum applications can lead to unintended, long-term outcomes. “When you file an asylum claim, it will last for your lifetime. If you apply for a visa to another country, such as Canada or Australia, you will need to disclose your previous asylum application.
As American policies remain unpredictable, Avramis emphasizes that Canada's immigration system remains more stable. “The Canadian approach is based on international law and provides a clear and structured process for skilled workers,” he noted. “Their system is actively seeking professionals in a variety of fields, including healthcare, education and trading, making it an attractive destination for qualified individuals.”
SA doctors are increasingly focusing on Canada as their destination given their recognition of qualifications. Avramis highlighted that the Covid-19 pandemic has accelerated demand for healthcare professionals. “There are currently thousands of South African health professionals in Canada, and the numbers continue to grow,” he said.
With rapid changes in immigration policies, Avramis encourages South Africans to carefully assess their options. “It's important to have a thorough understanding of the long-term impact of your decision, especially when it comes to asylum claims and visa applications,” he concluded.
-channelafrica—
