The United States has announced new visa restrictions against certain South African nationals.
Washington says the move is linked to alleged race-based discrimination and policies affecting minority groups.
US Secretary of State Marco Rubio announced the restrictions on September 15, 2026.
Rubio said the US was “gravely concerned” about alleged discrimination against Afrikaners and other minorities.
He said the restrictions would target people involved in certain laws or policies.
These include alleged uncompensated land seizures, race-based discrimination and calls for violence against minority groups.
Rubio said, “The South African government has not adequately addressed the previously laid out concerns”.
He also said, “The United States will not allow such behavior to go unchecked,” according to reports.
The US administration has repeatedly criticised South Africa over policies addressing racial inequality.
Washington has also raised concerns about proposed land reforms and claims involving Afrikaners.
However, South Africa has rejected the US characterisation of its domestic policies.
Foreign Minister Ronald Lamola said he viewed the announcement with “concern”.
He described the US position as a “mischaracterisation of South Africa’s domestic policies”.
The latest US visa restrictions on South Africans add to tensions between Washington and Pretoria.
The measures reportedly target specific individuals rather than imposing a blanket visa ban on South Africans.
The dispute comes as President Donald Trump’s administration continues to focus on policies involving Afrikaners.
