Answers to your questions
Have a question you would like answered? Email us and we may answer it. The questions here are based on ones from our readers, with identifying information removed.
Please note: GroundUp is just a news agency. We are not lawyers or financial advisors, and we have nothing to do with SASSA, Home Affairs, or any other government bodies. We do our best to make the answers accurate using publicly available information, but we cannot accept any legal liability if there are errors. If you notice any discrepancies, please email [email protected].
Topic: Home Affairs | Show questions and answers for all topics
What can my Egyptian boyfriend do to stay in SA now that his passport has expired?
He needs to become "legalised." You would need legal help.
Can refugee matriculants renew their permits and apply for ID this year (2021)?
Asylum/refugee status has been renewed up to 31 March 2021. You can apply for an ID.
My ex had my child and I didn't know. Can I give the baby my name?
It is up to the mother whether she wants the child to have her name or the father's name
How can I register the birth of an abandoned baby?
You may need legal assistance.
What can I do to get Home Affairs in to unblock my ID?
Consider asking for assistance from an organisation like Lawyers for Human Rights, which has a Statelessness Unit that deals with problems like yours and has a lot of experience in dealing with DHA.
How can I get Home Affairs to change my marital status?
You may need legal assistance to speed up the process.
How can I get my ID when Home Affairs can't find my birth certificate in the system?
You can apply for a birth certificate in a late registration of birth application.
How can undocumented Malawians register the birth of their baby?
There are several organisations to consult as to the best way forward.
How can I register my baby's birth when my husband's entry visa expired?
If his visa expired before lockdown, you may need to get legal assistance.
My asylum seeker permit expired and now I don't qualify for UIF. What can I do?
Your permit is still considered valid if it expired on or after 15 March.