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: Immigration | Show questions and answers for all topics
Can my South African-born child register for matric with her passport if I am a ZEP holder?
Yes, her passport will be sufficient to register for matric.
How can a foreign national replace stolen documents?
You have to go to Home Affairs in person with whatever documents you have left, as well as a police complaint report of the theft
How can my employer validate a Zimbabwean citizen's permit?
Home Affairs is the only body which can verify the status of an employee, but it is an exceptionally slow and dysfunctional body.
What is the process for a South African and a foreign national to get married?
As long as your partner has a valid visa and a letter of non-impediment, the process is the same.
I lost my V-list stamped passport. What happens if I get a new one?
You will still be V-listed. These bans are not taken off until they have been successfully appealed.
Can I apply for citizenship if I wasn't born in here and only one parent is South African?
Yes, but you need to get a South African birth certificate first.
Can I get permanent residency if my child is a South African citizen?
No, but you can apply for a relative’s visa.
How can I get a death certificate for my parent so that I can apply for my ID?
You can apply for a replacement copy or a full death certificate at any Home Affairs office.
Can refugees in South Africa apply for resettlement to another country?
Unfortunately not. UNHCR says that refugees are identified for Resettlement based on their protection needs.
What happens to my visa if I, a non-citizen, divorce from my permanent resident spouse?
The Director-General of Home Affairs can issue an order that will allow a foreign ex-spouse who applies for a visitor’s or relative’s visa to stay in the country.