The Department of Home Affairs has officially launched the first phase of its Digital Asylum System, allowing asylum seekers to register their intention to apply for asylum online.
The launch follows a Constitutional Court judgment concerning the administration of asylum applications and the rights of people seeking refuge in South Africa.
In July, the court declared certain provisions of the Refugees Act unconstitutional. These provisions allowed immigration officials to deport asylum seekers who were in the country without a transit visa.
The judgment was followed by protests by anti-illegal immigration groups in several parts of the country, including Durban and Soweto.
Amid mounting pressure on refugee reception centres, Home Affairs subsequently withdrew its directive on accepting asylum applications, citing overcrowded offices, security concerns and threats to public safety.
The newly launched online portal allows asylum seekers to record their intention to apply by submitting facial biometric information, personal details and supporting documentation.
However, the department has emphasised that the system is currently limited to registering an intention to apply for asylum.
It has cautioned that registration does not automatically grant an individual asylum, refugee status or South African citizenship.