Ask Athalie Banner

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

If I get married overseas and move back to South Africa, do we need to inform Home Affairs?

You are not under legal obligation to do so, but it would probably be better if you did.

Read more

How can I get an ID if neither of my parents are named on my birth certificate?

It's very strange that not even your mother is named on your birth certificate. You should make an affidavit explaining the situation and take it to Home Affairs, but you may end up needing legal help

Read more

What is the process to arrange an appointment with Home Affairs to set up a premarital interview?

Home Affairs has introduced a new online Branch Appointment Booking System which they say is quick and easy. Or you will have to visit the nearest Home Affairs office.

Read more

How do I apply for an ID now that I am 18 because my parents do not have permanent residence in South Africa?

The Department of Home Affairs says that undocumented foreign nationals born in South Africa are issued with a birth certificate free of charge. All children born in SA must be registered.

Read more

I can't verify my identity to Home Affairs or SASSA because I don't look the same and my fingerprints have faded.

Accommodations should be made to help you if you look different because you have aged since your last ID photo was taken and your fingerprints are faded.

Read more

How can I get an ID if my birth wasn't registered and I lost my clinic card?

Make an affidavit and apply for a duplicate clinic card from the hospital where you were born.

Read more

I was a child when my mother died three years ago. How can I get a duplicate of her ID and report her death to the Masters Office?

If you have something with her ID number on, go to Home Affairs and ask them to help you with the ID. You can report her death by lodging a completed death notice.

Read more

I have been waiting years for Home Affairs to change my marital status. What can I do?

Home Affairs is dealing with a huge backlog of applications. You may need legal aid to compel them to process yours now.

Read more

I don't know my birth parents and Home Affairs keeps refusing me an ID. What can I do?

Home Affairs is supposed to let your adoptive parents help you apply. They should also tell you why your applications have been denied.

Read more

Can I get shared custody of my son if I was not named as the father on his birth certificate?

Yes, but only with the mother's permission can an application be made to the High Court.

Read more