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: Refugees | Show questions and answers for all topics
How can my friend’s child, born in the DRC while her asylum-seeker mother was away, be registered in South Africa?
Your friend should approach organisations such as Scalabrini, who help immigrants and refugees in South Africa.
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.
I received an appointment letter from the Refugee Reception Office (RRO) in Gqeberha. Can I use the same letter for an interview in the Cape Town RRO?
Yes, you should be able to get an interview in the new Cape Town RRO in Epping using this letter.
How can I renew my asylum seeker status online?
Email the refugee reception office where your last extension was made.
Is it possible for Zimbabwean asylum seekers to apply for South African IDs during lockdown?
No, only South Africans can apply for SA identity documents. Here is how to renew your asylum permit online.
Can I renew my asylum permit online?
Home Affairs online asylum renewal process has not yet started.
What is the asylum application procedure?
You need to apply at the nearest Refugee Reception Office, but all the offices are closed during lockdown.
Has Home Affairs said anything regarding the Angolan Special Permit due to expire at the end of 2021?
Unfortunately not. You may want to reach out to Scalabrini.
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.
Can graduates in the critical skills category receive a waiver from having to work for 5 years before applying for Permanent Residence?
Yes, if you have graduated from a South African university.