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
How can asylum seekers and refugees apply for temporary residence from inside South Africa?
You can get exemption by applying to Home Affairs for a Waiver of Regulation 9(5).
Can I get permanent residency if my parent does, and I have lived in SA for more than five years?
Yes, if you are a dependent of a permanent residence holder and are aged under 21 years. But there is a massive backlog at Home Affairs.
Will an immigrant with expired documents be arrested if they go to Home Affairs?
They might. It would be best to contact an organisation that specialises in immigration matters.
How can Zimbabwean domestic workers stay in South Africa?
It will be difficult. as they may not qualify for other visas in the Immigration Act.
Can I get a South African ID if my mother was Zimbabwean but I have a South African birth certificate?
Yes, if Home Affairs accepts the ID number on your birth certificate.
How can a foreign father add his name to his children's birth certificates?
Home Affairs should help you, but you will have to give a "good and sufficient reason"
Can you get a spousal visa if you have not lived together?
Yes because you do not have to live together. There is no minimum period of marriage either.
Can I get a spousal visa for my partner if we are not married?
No, you need to apply for a life partner visa.
Will my child have all the benefits of being South African if I give them my foreign partner's surname?
Yes, they should if at least one parent is a South African citizen.
My asylum permit expired and now I'm facing a fine even though all the refugee offices are closed.
You can approach one of the organisations that work with the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees