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 info@groundup.org.za.
Topic: Home Affairs | Show questions and answers for all topics
Why is SASSA demanding my late husband's death certificate when he died twenty years ago?
SASSA needs proof, but Home Affairs should help you.
Why am I only being granted six-month permits to stay in South Africa and why am I not being granted citizenship?
It's complicated, but there are things you could try
Can I get papers to remain in South Africa if my child is a citizen?
No, but you can apply for two kinds of visa
How can I get Home Affairs to process my divorce quicker?
Home Affairs can only be compelled to act by a court order that finds the delay is unreasonable
Can I be refused a spousal visa to South Africa because I am HIV-positive?
No, you should not be refused a visa because of your HIV-positive.
Home Affairs is refusing to issue our mother's death certificate because of a clerical error. Can you refer us to a firm that specialises in this?
We suggest either De Saude Attorneys or Intergate Immigration.
What citizenship is a child born in South Africa to one or two foreign parents entitled to?
If one of the parents is South African, the girls are automatically South African citizens.
Can Home Affairs refuse an application for a same-sex marriage?
No, Home Affairs may not refuse an application for a marriage certificate for a same sex marriage.
I'm an asylum seeker married to a South African. Can I apply for a spousal visa?
Yes, you can apply for a spousal visa.
I have been served with papers banning me from the country. I have 30 days to respond. Where do I submit an appeal?
The answers to your questions are far from clear and we recommend contacting an organisation like Lawyers for Human Rights