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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.

Topic: Immigration  |  Show questions and answers for all topics

Can I get an ID if I was born in SA to foreign parents but my uncle has a valid South African ID?

Possibly. In terms of the 2018 judgement in the Naki case, Home Affairs should accept and consider your application.

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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).

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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"

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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.

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Can I get a spousal visa for my partner if we are not married?

No, you need to apply for a life partner visa.

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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.

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