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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.

How can a Zimbabwean woman who is here legally register the birth of her child?

She can go to the Department of Home Affairs. Because she and the father are Zimbabwean, the child's birth certificate will not have an ID number.

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Can a child be denied attending their matric dance due to non-payment of school fees?

No. Legally, the principal does not have the power to block access to the matric farewell because of outstanding school fees.

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What can I do if I was exempted from paying full school fees but don't have enough money to pay the outstanding amount?

You can approach the School Governing Body and negotiate a revised repayment plan.

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What visa can I get if my child is South African and I want to get a job?

You can apply for a relative's visa, but you will need it endorsed to allow you to work if you are offered employment.

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Can I reclaim South African citizenship after receiving citizenship of another country?

Not yet. The SCA ruled it unconstitutional to withdraw someone's citizenship, but as at 5 March 2024 the Constitional Court is yet to make its decision.

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How can I get my ID if my parent has multiple IDs?

Following a recent court ruling about blocked IDs, you should be able to apply for an ID the normal way. Home Affairs officials may not be aware of this, so perhaps tell them about the judgment.

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Can I withdraw my pension fund from the savings pot while I am still working?

Yes, you can withdraw from the savings pot once a year, provided it is not less than R2.000.

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What does a ZEP holder need to claim UIF?

To apply for UIF as a foreign national, you need your passport and completed forms U1-28 and U1-19.

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Can the college where I studied withhold my certificates if I cannot pay the outstanding fees?

While the Higher Education Act of 1997 (HEA) grants the right to institutions to set policies and rules for its students, the HEA does not mention the supposed right to withhold certificates

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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.

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