{"id":129,"date":"2021-07-19T13:06:52","date_gmt":"2021-07-19T13:06:52","guid":{"rendered":"http:\/\/help.unhcr.org\/southafrica\/?page_id=129"},"modified":"2026-03-05T13:32:19","modified_gmt":"2026-03-05T13:32:19","slug":"asylum","status":"publish","type":"page","link":"https:\/\/help.unhcr.org\/southafrica\/get-help\/asylum\/","title":{"rendered":"Asylum &amp; Refugee Status Determination"},"content":{"rendered":"\n<p>The Department for Home Affairs of the South African government runs the asylum process in South Africa. You can read about the process in the <a href=\"https:\/\/www.gov.za\/sites\/default\/files\/gcis_document\/201409\/316431274.pdf\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Refugees Act<\/a> (see Sections 21, 22 and 24) together with the <a href=\"https:\/\/www.gov.za\/sites\/default\/files\/gcis_document\/202001\/42932rg11024gon1707.pdf\" data-type=\"link\" data-id=\"https:\/\/www.gov.za\/sites\/default\/files\/gcis_document\/202001\/42932rg11024gon1707.pdf\">Refugees Act Regulations<\/a> (see sections 2, 7, 8 and 14) and the <a href=\"https:\/\/www.gov.za\/sites\/default\/files\/gcis_document\/201409\/a13-020.pdf\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Immigration Act<\/a> (section 23).<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>The definition of a &#8216;refugee&#8217; in South African law can be found in section 3 of the Refugees Act.&nbsp; The Refugees Act bases the definition on that found in the <a href=\"https:\/\/www.unhcr.org\/3b66c2aa10\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">UN Refugee Convention<\/a> and the <a href=\"https:\/\/www.unhcr.org\/africa\/media\/oau-convention-governing-specific-aspects-refugee-problems-africa-adopted-assembly-heads\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">OAU Refugee Convention<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>More information about Refugee Status &amp; Asylum in South Africa can be found at the <a href=\"http:\/\/www.dha.gov.za\/index.php\/immigration-services\/refugee-status-asylum\">Department of Home Affairs website<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div id=\"q-and-a-23\" class=\"wp-block-help-unhcr-q-and-a q-and-a\"><div class=\"accordion\" id=\"unhcr-help-q-and-a-23\" itemscope itemtype=\"https:\/\/schema.org\/FAQPage\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-help-unhcr-q-and-a-inner q-and-a-inner accordion-item my-10 active\" id=\"qa-24\" data-item-content=\"q-and-a-item-1\" itemscope itemprop=\"mainEntity\" itemtype=\"https:\/\/schema.org\/Question\"><h3 class=\"accordion-header\" id=\"q-and-a-item-1\"><button class=\"accordion-button bg-info collapsed\" type=\"button\" data-bs-toggle=\"collapse\" data-bs-target=\"#collapse-qa-24-1\" aria-expanded=\"false\" aria-controls=\"collapse-qa-24-1\"><span class=\"accordion-count\">1<\/span><span class=\"q-and-a__box-title fw-bolder fs-3\">How can you apply for asylum in South Africa? \u2b07<\/span><\/button><\/h3><div id=\"collapse-qa-24-1\" class=\"accordion-collapse collapse\" aria-labelledby=\"q-and-a-item-1\" data-bs-parent=\"\"><div class=\"accordion-body py-16 px-20\" itemscope itemprop=\"acceptedAnswer\" itemtype=\"https:\/\/schema.org\/Answer\">\n<p><strong>ATTENTION!&nbsp;<\/strong>The Department of Home Affairs of the South African government runs the asylum process in South Africa. If you have come to South Africa to seek asylum, it is important to<strong> apply for asylum as soon as you arrive<\/strong> in South Africa. Asylum documentation is important for accessing certain services and protects you and your family from arrest.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>How can you apply for asylum in South Africa?<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>You will need to go to the nearest Refugee Reception Office to apply for asylum. Follow these steps to start the process:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Choose a Refugee Reception Office where you want to apply for asylum. Your choices are:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Cape Town Refugee Reception Office<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Durban Refugee Reception Office<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Desmond Tutu Refugee Reception Office (Pretoria)<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Musina Refugee Reception Office<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Gqeberha Refugee Reception Office (formerly Port Elizabeth)<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p>Remember you will need to travel to this office at your own cost, so choosing the one closest to where you live is important.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>At the Refugee Reception Office:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>You will have to provide your biometrics (photographs and fingerprints). All family members listed in the form sent to the Department of Home Affairs will have to be present to give their biometrics.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>You will be asked to give brief reasons about why you are seeking asylum in South Africa.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>After applying for asylum, you and your dependents must be given an asylum-seeker visa. Each family member should be given an asylum-seeker visa (also known as a \u2018Section 22 permit\u2019). Make copies of these documents and always keep them very safe.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>You will have an interview with a Refugee Status Determination Officer. The interview could happen on the day you make your asylum application, or you could be asked to come on a different day for this interview.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div><\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-help-unhcr-q-and-a-inner q-and-a-inner accordion-item my-10 active\" id=\"qa-24\" data-item-content=\"q-and-a-item-2\" itemscope itemprop=\"mainEntity\" itemtype=\"https:\/\/schema.org\/Question\"><h3 class=\"accordion-header\" id=\"q-and-a-item-2\"><button class=\"accordion-button bg-info collapsed\" type=\"button\" data-bs-toggle=\"collapse\" data-bs-target=\"#collapse-qa-24-2\" aria-expanded=\"false\" aria-controls=\"collapse-qa-24-2\"><span class=\"accordion-count\">2<\/span><span class=\"q-and-a__box-title fw-bolder fs-3\">How is the interview with the Refugee Status Determination Officer? \u2b07<\/span><\/button><\/h3><div id=\"collapse-qa-24-2\" class=\"accordion-collapse collapse\" aria-labelledby=\"q-and-a-item-2\" data-bs-parent=\"\"><div class=\"accordion-body py-16 px-20\" itemscope itemprop=\"acceptedAnswer\" itemtype=\"https:\/\/schema.org\/Answer\">\n<p><strong>ATTENTION! If you do not speak or understand English, you have the right to ask for an interpreter! <\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>You will have to complete an interview with a Refugee Status Determination Officer.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>During your interview, remember:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>The Refugee Status Determination Officer must explain the procedure to you. If they do not, ask them to do so.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>The Refugee Status Determination Officer should ask you why you fled your country and why it may be unsafe to return.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>The Refugee Status Determination Officer may request evidence or more details on what you tell them. Your husband or wife may be interviewed separately.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>The interview must be recorded, and you should be given the help of an interpreter if you need one.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>You must tell the truth during your interview. If it is discovered that you provided false, dishonest or misleading information, your asylum application may be rejected.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>After the interview the Refugee Status Determination Officer must provide you with a decision. They might give you the decision immediately after the interview or ask you to come back on another day for the decision.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>You should receive the decision in writing.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>The decision may be to grant you refugee status or it may be to reject your claim for asylum as unfounded or manifestly unfounded, fraudulent or abusive.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>ATTENTION!<\/strong><strong> Make sure to make copies of all letters, decisions, and visas given by the Department of Home Affairs and keep them very safe.<\/strong><\/p>\n<\/div><\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-help-unhcr-q-and-a-inner q-and-a-inner accordion-item my-10 active\" id=\"qa-24\" data-item-content=\"q-and-a-item-3\" itemscope itemprop=\"mainEntity\" itemtype=\"https:\/\/schema.org\/Question\"><h3 class=\"accordion-header\" id=\"q-and-a-item-3\"><button class=\"accordion-button bg-info collapsed\" type=\"button\" data-bs-toggle=\"collapse\" data-bs-target=\"#collapse-qa-24-3\" aria-expanded=\"false\" aria-controls=\"collapse-qa-24-3\"><span class=\"accordion-count\">3<\/span><span class=\"q-and-a__box-title fw-bolder fs-3\">What happens if you are recognized as a Refugee? \u2b07<\/span><\/button><\/h3><div id=\"collapse-qa-24-3\" class=\"accordion-collapse collapse\" aria-labelledby=\"q-and-a-item-3\" data-bs-parent=\"\"><div class=\"accordion-body py-16 px-20\" itemscope itemprop=\"acceptedAnswer\" itemtype=\"https:\/\/schema.org\/Answer\">\n<p>This means the Department of Home Affairs has given you asylum, and you may remain in South Africa. Recognized refugees living in South Africa have rights and responsibilities.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Your recognition of refugee status document (also known as \u2018Section 24 permit\u2019) should:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Be valid for four years, and<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Be given to the main file holder and all dependent family members (spouse, children, dependent family members included in the first application for asylum or added to the file later)<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p>You will have to:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Reapply for a refugee status document at least 90 days before it expires;<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Apply for an identity document immediately (this \u2018refugee ID\u2019 is valid for the same period as the refugee status document).<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Apply for a refugee travel document if you want to travel outside South Africa.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Update the officials at the Refugee Reception Office on any address changes.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>ATTENTION!<\/strong><strong> Your refugee status document may be withdrawn if you have been convicted and sentenced for a crime. Refugees and asylum-seeker must abide by the laws of South Africa.<\/strong><\/p>\n<\/div><\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-help-unhcr-q-and-a-inner q-and-a-inner accordion-item my-10 active\" id=\"qa-24\" data-item-content=\"q-and-a-item-4\" itemscope itemprop=\"mainEntity\" itemtype=\"https:\/\/schema.org\/Question\"><h3 class=\"accordion-header\" id=\"q-and-a-item-4\"><button class=\"accordion-button bg-info collapsed\" type=\"button\" data-bs-toggle=\"collapse\" data-bs-target=\"#collapse-qa-24-4\" aria-expanded=\"false\" aria-controls=\"collapse-qa-24-4\"><span class=\"accordion-count\">4<\/span><span class=\"q-and-a__box-title fw-bolder fs-3\">Can a recognized refugee apply for permanent residence in South Africa? \u2b07<\/span><\/button><\/h3><div id=\"collapse-qa-24-4\" class=\"accordion-collapse collapse\" aria-labelledby=\"q-and-a-item-4\" data-bs-parent=\"\"><div class=\"accordion-body py-16 px-20\" itemscope itemprop=\"acceptedAnswer\" itemtype=\"https:\/\/schema.org\/Answer\">\n<p>Yes! You can start applying for permanent residence after you have lived in South Africa for ten consecutive years as a recognized refugee.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>First you will need certification that you will remain a refugee indefinitely.&nbsp;<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Follow these steps to begin the process:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ol class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Get the Application Form for \u201cCertification of Refugee Status\u201d from the Refugee Reception Office<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n\n\n\n<p>You can find an application form at the Refugee Reception Office where you have renewed your refugee status document. The application must be made in writing.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ol class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Motivate why you will be a refugee for a long time<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n\n\n\n<p>On the form you must include reasons why you think you will remain a refugee in the future. This can include reports on conditions in your home country showing why it would be unsafe for you to return any time soon.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ol class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Send the Application Form for \u201cCertification of Refugee Status\u201d to the Standing Committee for Refugee Affairs<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n\n\n\n<p>Once you have completed the application, you may hand it in at the Refugee Reception Office, and they will send it to the Standing Committee for Refugee Affairs. &nbsp;It can take some time for this first step to be completed.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>ATTENTION!<\/strong><strong> When you apply for certification, there is a risk that the Standing Committee for Refugee Affairs may decide you are no longer a refugee. This can result in your refugee status being withdrawn.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>It would be best if you spoke to a lawyer before applying for certification of refugee status to make sure it is a good decision. <a href=\"https:\/\/help.unhcr.org\/southafrica\/welcome\/legal\/\">See Legal Assistance for a list of UNHCR\u2019s partner organizations to contact<\/a>.<\/p>\n<\/div><\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-help-unhcr-q-and-a-inner q-and-a-inner accordion-item my-10 active\" id=\"qa-24\" data-item-content=\"q-and-a-item-5\" itemscope itemprop=\"mainEntity\" itemtype=\"https:\/\/schema.org\/Question\"><h3 class=\"accordion-header\" id=\"q-and-a-item-5\"><button class=\"accordion-button bg-info collapsed\" type=\"button\" data-bs-toggle=\"collapse\" data-bs-target=\"#collapse-qa-24-5\" aria-expanded=\"false\" aria-controls=\"collapse-qa-24-5\"><span class=\"accordion-count\">5<\/span><span class=\"q-and-a__box-title fw-bolder fs-3\">How do you apply for permanent residence, once you have certification of refugee status? \u2b07<\/span><\/button><\/h3><div id=\"collapse-qa-24-5\" class=\"accordion-collapse collapse\" aria-labelledby=\"q-and-a-item-5\" data-bs-parent=\"\"><div class=\"accordion-body py-16 px-20\" itemscope itemprop=\"acceptedAnswer\" itemtype=\"https:\/\/schema.org\/Answer\">\n<p>If the Standing Committee for Refugee Affairs grants your application for certification and agrees that you will remain a refugee indefinitely, you may use this \u2018certification\u2019 to apply for permanent residence. You can make this application for permanent residence to the Department of Home Affairs through VFS Global.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>You may want to find a lawyer to help free of charge or you will have to pay a private lawyer. Verify that they are licensed to help you by looking them up on the <a href=\"https:\/\/lpc.org.za\/list-of-legal-practitioners\/\">Legal Practice Council website<\/a>)<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<\/div><\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-help-unhcr-q-and-a-inner q-and-a-inner accordion-item my-10 active\" id=\"qa-24\" data-item-content=\"q-and-a-item-6\" itemscope itemprop=\"mainEntity\" itemtype=\"https:\/\/schema.org\/Question\"><h3 class=\"accordion-header\" id=\"q-and-a-item-6\"><button class=\"accordion-button bg-info collapsed\" type=\"button\" data-bs-toggle=\"collapse\" data-bs-target=\"#collapse-qa-24-6\" aria-expanded=\"false\" aria-controls=\"collapse-qa-24-6\"><span class=\"accordion-count\">6<\/span><span class=\"q-and-a__box-title fw-bolder fs-3\">What happens if your asylum application is rejected as \u2018unfounded\u2019? \u2b07<\/span><\/button><\/h3><div id=\"collapse-qa-24-6\" class=\"accordion-collapse collapse\" aria-labelledby=\"q-and-a-item-6\" data-bs-parent=\"\"><div class=\"accordion-body py-16 px-20\" itemscope itemprop=\"acceptedAnswer\" itemtype=\"https:\/\/schema.org\/Answer\">\n<p>This means the Refugee Status Determination Officer has decided to reject your asylum application. The rejection as \u2018unfounded\u2019 and the reasons for the rejection should be written on the Refugee Status Determination Officer\u2019s written decision.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>If you do not agree with this decision or how the Refugee Status Determination Officer made the decision, you have a right to appeal to the Refugee Appeals Authority. The Refugee Appeals Authority will then look at the Refugee Status Determination Officer\u2019s decision and make a final decision about your asylum application.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>You should speak to a lawyer if the Refugee Status Determination Officer has rejected your asylum application. <a href=\"https:\/\/help.unhcr.org\/southafrica\/welcome\/legal\/\">See Legal Assistance for a list of UNHCR\u2019s partner organizations to contact<\/a>.<\/p>\n<\/div><\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-help-unhcr-q-and-a-inner q-and-a-inner accordion-item my-10 active\" id=\"qa-24\" data-item-content=\"q-and-a-item-7\" itemscope itemprop=\"mainEntity\" itemtype=\"https:\/\/schema.org\/Question\"><h3 class=\"accordion-header\" id=\"q-and-a-item-7\"><button class=\"accordion-button bg-info collapsed\" type=\"button\" data-bs-toggle=\"collapse\" data-bs-target=\"#collapse-qa-24-7\" aria-expanded=\"false\" aria-controls=\"collapse-qa-24-7\"><span class=\"accordion-count\">7<\/span><span class=\"q-and-a__box-title fw-bolder fs-3\">How do you appeal the Refugee Status Determination Officer&#8217;s &#8216;unfounded&#8217; rejection? \u2b07<\/span><\/button><\/h3><div id=\"collapse-qa-24-7\" class=\"accordion-collapse collapse\" aria-labelledby=\"q-and-a-item-7\" data-bs-parent=\"\"><div class=\"accordion-body py-16 px-20\" itemscope itemprop=\"acceptedAnswer\" itemtype=\"https:\/\/schema.org\/Answer\">\n<p>If you want to appeal the Refugee Determination Officer\u2019s decision, you must follow these steps:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ol class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Read the Refugee Status Determination Officer\u2019s decision<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n\n\n\n<p>The Refugee Status Determination Officer\u2019s decision must be in writing. The Refugee Status Determination Officer must inform you of your right to appeal and explain what is written in the decision.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>You must read what was written or ask someone to help you to understand why the Refugee Status Determination Officer made his decision to reject your application.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ol class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Let the Refugee Appeal Authority know you want to appeal the decision<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n\n\n\n<p>You must apply to appeal to the Refugee Appeals Authority within <strong>ten<\/strong> working days from the date you got the Refugee Status Determination Officer\u2019s written decision.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>You can go to the Refugee Reception Office where you had your interview with the Refugee Status Determination Officer to apply for an appeal. The Refugee Reception Office will give you a \u2018Notice of Appeal\u2019 form to complete. The officials at the Refugee Reception Office must send your completed notice of appeal to the Refugee Appeals Authority.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>ATTENTION!<\/strong><strong> If you do not give your notice of appeal within ten working days, the Refugee Status Determination Officer\u2019s decision will be final. You may finally be rejected and asked to leave South Africa. <\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>If there is a good reason why you could not give your notice of appeal to the Refugee Appeals Authority within ten working days, you can make a special application to appeal late and explain why you were late.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ol class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Wait for the Refugee Appeals Authority\u2019s decision<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n\n\n\n<p>Based on your file and the Notice of Appeal, the Refugee Appeals Authority must tell you whether you need to have a hearing. If the Refugee Appeals Authority does not need you to appear at a hearing, they must tell you in writing. You have the right to ask for a hearing if you would like one.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>If you have a hearing with the Refugee Appeals Authority, you will be given a date and time that you must go to the Refugee Reception Office where the hearing with the Refugee Appeals Authority will take place.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>During your hearing, you must remember:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>You will be asked about your home country, reasons for leaving, reasons that you cannot return and your application for asylum in South Africa.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>You have the right to ask for an interpreter.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>You must tell the truth.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Contact The Refugee Appeals Authority of South Africa (RAASA)<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>ENQUIRIES:\u00a0<a href=\"mailto:Rab@dha.gov.za\">Rab@dha.gov.za<\/a><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Notice of Hearing:\u00a0<a href=\"mailto:RAANoh@dha.gov.za\">RAANoh@dha.gov.za<\/a><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Notice of Appeals:\u00a0<a href=\"mailto:RAANotice@dha.gov.za\">RAANotice@dha.gov.za<\/a><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>RAASA WhatsApp Number:\u00a0066 308 6978<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div><\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-help-unhcr-q-and-a-inner q-and-a-inner accordion-item my-10 active\" id=\"qa-24\" data-item-content=\"q-and-a-item-8\" itemscope itemprop=\"mainEntity\" itemtype=\"https:\/\/schema.org\/Question\"><h3 class=\"accordion-header\" id=\"q-and-a-item-8\"><button class=\"accordion-button bg-info collapsed\" type=\"button\" data-bs-toggle=\"collapse\" data-bs-target=\"#collapse-qa-24-8\" aria-expanded=\"false\" aria-controls=\"collapse-qa-24-8\"><span class=\"accordion-count\">8<\/span><span class=\"q-and-a__box-title fw-bolder fs-3\">What are the outcomes of an Appeal to the Refugee Appeals Authority? \u2b07<\/span><\/button><\/h3><div id=\"collapse-qa-24-8\" class=\"accordion-collapse collapse\" aria-labelledby=\"q-and-a-item-8\" data-bs-parent=\"\"><div class=\"accordion-body py-16 px-20\" itemscope itemprop=\"acceptedAnswer\" itemtype=\"https:\/\/schema.org\/Answer\">\n<p>After considering your appeal, the RAASA may decide one of the following:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ol class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>To uphold your rejection and issue a final\u00a0rejection<\/strong> which means your asylum claim has failed and you can no longer legally remain in South Africa. You will be notified of how many days you have in South Africa before you must leave the country. A \u2018 judicial review \u2018 is the only way to challenge this decision. You will need a lawyer for this; see the section on Judicial Reviews below. You will need a lawyer for this, see <a href=\"https:\/\/help.unhcr.org\/southafrica\/welcome\/legal\/\">Legal Assistance<\/a> for a list of UNHCR\u2019s partner organisations to contact.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>To grant refugee status <\/strong>which means the RAASA has overturned your first rejection and recognised you as a refugee. You must be provided with a refugee recognition document.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>To send your application back<\/strong>\u00a0<strong>to the Refugee Status Determination Officer <\/strong>which means the RAASA wants the Refugee Status Determination Officer (RSDO) to consider your application again. You will then be re-interviewed by the RSDO for a new decision on your asylum application.<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n<\/div><\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-help-unhcr-q-and-a-inner q-and-a-inner accordion-item my-10 active\" id=\"qa-24\" data-item-content=\"q-and-a-item-9\" itemscope itemprop=\"mainEntity\" itemtype=\"https:\/\/schema.org\/Question\"><h3 class=\"accordion-header\" id=\"q-and-a-item-9\"><button class=\"accordion-button bg-info collapsed\" type=\"button\" data-bs-toggle=\"collapse\" data-bs-target=\"#collapse-qa-24-9\" aria-expanded=\"false\" aria-controls=\"collapse-qa-24-9\"><span class=\"accordion-count\">9<\/span><span class=\"q-and-a__box-title fw-bolder fs-3\">How long will it take for the Refugee Appeals Authority of South Africa to make a decision? \u2b07<\/span><\/button><\/h3><div id=\"collapse-qa-24-9\" class=\"accordion-collapse collapse\" aria-labelledby=\"q-and-a-item-9\" data-bs-parent=\"\"><div class=\"accordion-body py-16 px-20\" itemscope itemprop=\"acceptedAnswer\" itemtype=\"https:\/\/schema.org\/Answer\">\n<p>There is no set time within which the Refugee Appeals Authority must decide on an appeal. There is a backlog of cases with the Refugee Appeals Authority, which means it may take a long time for your appeal to be decided.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>The Refugee Appeals Authority is actively working to shorten the time periods by addressing the backlog through the ongoing Asylum Appeals Backlog Project in collaboration with UNHCR.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>ATTENTION!<\/strong><strong> Your asylum-seeker visa must be renewed while you wait for a final decision from the Refugee Appeals Authority.<\/strong><\/p>\n<\/div><\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-help-unhcr-q-and-a-inner q-and-a-inner accordion-item my-10 active\" id=\"qa-24\" data-item-content=\"q-and-a-item-10\" itemscope itemprop=\"mainEntity\" itemtype=\"https:\/\/schema.org\/Question\"><h3 class=\"accordion-header\" id=\"q-and-a-item-10\"><button class=\"accordion-button bg-info collapsed\" type=\"button\" data-bs-toggle=\"collapse\" data-bs-target=\"#collapse-qa-24-10\" aria-expanded=\"false\" aria-controls=\"collapse-qa-24-10\"><span class=\"accordion-count\">10<\/span><span class=\"q-and-a__box-title fw-bolder fs-3\">What is the Asylum Appeals Backlog Project? \u2b07<\/span><\/button><\/h3><div id=\"collapse-qa-24-10\" class=\"accordion-collapse collapse\" aria-labelledby=\"q-and-a-item-10\" data-bs-parent=\"\"><div class=\"accordion-body py-16 px-20\" itemscope itemprop=\"acceptedAnswer\" itemtype=\"https:\/\/schema.org\/Answer\">\n<p>In 2021 the Refugee Appeals Authority, with the support and collaboration of the Department of Home Affairs and UNHCR, began a four year project to address the backlog of asylum appeals.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>The Asylum Appeals Backlog Project aims to:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ol class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Make final decisions on the approximately 133,000 undecided appeals in the backlog; and<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Improve ways of working to prevent backlogs from happening in the future.<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n\n\n\n<p>UNHCR is supporting this project by giving funds, expertise, and staff to help the Refugee Appeals Authority complete appeal decisions faster while making good quality decisions.<\/p>\n<\/div><\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-help-unhcr-q-and-a-inner q-and-a-inner accordion-item my-10 active\" id=\"qa-24\" data-item-content=\"q-and-a-item-11\" itemscope itemprop=\"mainEntity\" itemtype=\"https:\/\/schema.org\/Question\"><h3 class=\"accordion-header\" id=\"q-and-a-item-11\"><button class=\"accordion-button bg-info collapsed\" type=\"button\" data-bs-toggle=\"collapse\" data-bs-target=\"#collapse-qa-24-11\" aria-expanded=\"false\" aria-controls=\"collapse-qa-24-11\"><span class=\"accordion-count\">11<\/span><span class=\"q-and-a__box-title fw-bolder fs-3\">What happens if your asylum application is rejected as \u2018manifestly unfounded\u2019, \u2018abusive\u2019, or \u2018fraudulent\u2019? \u2b07<\/span><\/button><\/h3><div id=\"collapse-qa-24-11\" class=\"accordion-collapse collapse\" aria-labelledby=\"q-and-a-item-11\" data-bs-parent=\"\"><div class=\"accordion-body py-16 px-20\" itemscope itemprop=\"acceptedAnswer\" itemtype=\"https:\/\/schema.org\/Answer\">\n<p>This means the Refugee Status Determination Officer has decided to reject your asylum application. The rejection and the reasons for the rejection should be written on the Refugee Status Determination Officer\u2019s written decision.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>\u2018Manifestly unfounded\u2019, \u2018abusive\u2019 or \u2018fraudulent\u2019 rejections are automatically sent to the Standing Committee for Refugee Affairs for review. This means the Standing Committee for Refugee Affairs will look at the Refugee Status Determination Officer\u2019s decision and make a final decision about your asylum application.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>You should speak to a lawyer if the Refugee Status Determination Officer has rejected your asylum application. <a href=\"https:\/\/help.unhcr.org\/southafrica\/welcome\/legal\/\">See Legal Assistance for a list of UNHCR\u2019s partner organisations to contact<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>ATTENTION!<\/strong><strong> Your asylum-seeker visa must be renewed while you wait for a final decision from the Standing Committee for Refugee Affairs.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Contact The Standing Committee for Refugee Affairs (SCRA<\/strong>)<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>ENQUIRIES:\u00a0<a href=\"mailto:EnquiriesSCRA@dha.gov.za\">EnquiriesSCRA@dha.gov.za<\/a>\u00a0\u2013 Recognized refugees (section 24 visa holders) can enquire how to apply for certification or just follow up on an existing certification application.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><a href=\"mailto:-sec22representations@dha.gov.za\">sec22representations@dha.gov.za<\/a>\u00a0\u2013 For asylum seekers (Section 22 holders) to submit written representations to SCRA after receiving a fraudulent, manifestly unfounded or abusive decision outcome.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div><\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-help-unhcr-q-and-a-inner q-and-a-inner accordion-item my-10 active\" id=\"qa-24\" data-item-content=\"q-and-a-item-12\" itemscope itemprop=\"mainEntity\" itemtype=\"https:\/\/schema.org\/Question\"><h3 class=\"accordion-header\" id=\"q-and-a-item-12\"><button class=\"accordion-button bg-info collapsed\" type=\"button\" data-bs-toggle=\"collapse\" data-bs-target=\"#collapse-qa-24-12\" aria-expanded=\"false\" aria-controls=\"collapse-qa-24-12\"><span class=\"accordion-count\">12<\/span><span class=\"q-and-a__box-title fw-bolder fs-3\">What happens if your asylum application is sent to the Standing Committee for Refugee Affairs for review? \u2b07<\/span><\/button><\/h3><div id=\"collapse-qa-24-12\" class=\"accordion-collapse collapse\" aria-labelledby=\"q-and-a-item-12\" data-bs-parent=\"\"><div class=\"accordion-body py-16 px-20\" itemscope itemprop=\"acceptedAnswer\" itemtype=\"https:\/\/schema.org\/Answer\">\n<p>When the Standing Committee reviews your asylum application, they can either:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ol class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Agree with the Refugee Status Determination Officer\u2019s decision: This means the rejection of your asylum application will become final. You will not be allowed to remain in South Africa and will be given notice of how many days you have before you must leave the country<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n\n\n\n<p>OR<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ol class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Disagree with the Refugee Status Determination Officer\u2019s decision: The Standing Committee will then send your application back for another interview by the Refugee Status Determination Officer <u>or<\/u> change the decision and approve your asylum application. You will receive a refugee status document if the Standing Committee approves your asylum application.<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>ATTENTION!<\/strong><strong> You have a right to make written submissions to the Standing Committee if your asylum application is sent to the Standing Committee for Refugee Affairs for review<\/strong>. See <a href=\"https:\/\/help.unhcr.org\/southafrica\/welcome\/legal\/\">Legal Assistance<\/a> for a list of UNHCR\u2019s partner organizations to contact for help with this.<\/p>\n<\/div><\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-help-unhcr-q-and-a-inner q-and-a-inner accordion-item my-10 active\" id=\"qa-24\" data-item-content=\"q-and-a-item-13\" itemscope itemprop=\"mainEntity\" itemtype=\"https:\/\/schema.org\/Question\"><h3 class=\"accordion-header\" id=\"q-and-a-item-13\"><button class=\"accordion-button bg-info collapsed\" type=\"button\" data-bs-toggle=\"collapse\" data-bs-target=\"#collapse-qa-24-13\" aria-expanded=\"false\" aria-controls=\"collapse-qa-24-13\"><span class=\"accordion-count\">13<\/span><span class=\"q-and-a__box-title fw-bolder fs-3\">What if you receive a final rejection?\u2b07<\/span><\/button><\/h3><div id=\"collapse-qa-24-13\" class=\"accordion-collapse collapse\" aria-labelledby=\"q-and-a-item-13\" data-bs-parent=\"\"><div class=\"accordion-body py-16 px-20\" itemscope itemprop=\"acceptedAnswer\" itemtype=\"https:\/\/schema.org\/Answer\">\n<p>If the Refugee Appeals Authority or the Standing Committee for Refugee Affairs gives you a final rejection, you will no longer be able to stay in South Africa legally.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>This means your asylum application has failed, and you will be given a written notice to leave the Republic of South Africa. If you remain in South Africa, you risk deportation back to your home country.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>If you cannot return to your home country because it is still unsafe or your life and safety might be at risk, you can challenge the final decision with a judicial review.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>A judicial review means you will take the Department of Home Affairs to the High Court to challenge the final rejection of your asylum application.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>If you want to challenge your final rejection, you must remember:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>A \u2018judicial review\u2019 can only be done in the High Court of South Africa and you will need a lawyer for this (See <a href=\"https:\/\/help.unhcr.org\/southafrica\/welcome\/legal\/\">Legal Assistance<\/a> for a list of UNHCR\u2019s partner organizations to contact);<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>It can be an expensive process and lengthy process;<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>If you cannot find a lawyer to help free of charge, you will have to pay a private lawyer (Verify that they are licensed to help you by looking them up on the <a href=\"https:\/\/lpc.org.za\/list-of-legal-practitioners\/\">Legal Practice Council website<\/a>).<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div><\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-help-unhcr-q-and-a-inner q-and-a-inner accordion-item my-10 active\" id=\"qa-24\" data-item-content=\"q-and-a-item-14\" itemscope itemprop=\"mainEntity\" itemtype=\"https:\/\/schema.org\/Question\"><h3 class=\"accordion-header\" id=\"q-and-a-item-14\"><button class=\"accordion-button bg-info collapsed\" type=\"button\" data-bs-toggle=\"collapse\" data-bs-target=\"#collapse-qa-24-14\" aria-expanded=\"false\" aria-controls=\"collapse-qa-24-14\"><span class=\"accordion-count\">14<\/span><span class=\"q-and-a__box-title fw-bolder fs-3\">Can you add your family members to your application\/file? \u2b07<\/span><\/button><\/h3><div id=\"collapse-qa-24-14\" class=\"accordion-collapse collapse\" aria-labelledby=\"q-and-a-item-14\" data-bs-parent=\"\"><div class=\"accordion-body py-16 px-20\" itemscope itemprop=\"acceptedAnswer\" itemtype=\"https:\/\/schema.org\/Answer\">\n<p>Dependent family members can be added to the file of a recognized refugee or asylum-seeker. This is informally called \u2018family joining\u2019, which allows for a family unit to be documented under one file with the Department of Home Affairs. This protects the right of a family to remain together.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>If you are a refugee or an asylum-seeker in South Africa, the following \u2018dependents\u2019 can join your file with the Department of Home Affairs:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Your spouse (husband or wife),<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Your unmarried children who are under the age of 18 years of age,<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Your destitute, aged, or infirm parents who are dependent on you.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>ATTENTION!<\/strong><strong> It is very important that you include all dependents on your asylum application and write all their names and dates of birth correctly and in full. If you do not write them correctly, it might cause problems later on.<\/strong><\/p>\n<\/div><\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-help-unhcr-q-and-a-inner q-and-a-inner accordion-item my-10 active\" id=\"qa-24\" data-item-content=\"q-and-a-item-15\" itemscope itemprop=\"mainEntity\" itemtype=\"https:\/\/schema.org\/Question\"><h3 class=\"accordion-header\" id=\"q-and-a-item-15\"><button class=\"accordion-button bg-info collapsed\" type=\"button\" data-bs-toggle=\"collapse\" data-bs-target=\"#collapse-qa-24-15\" aria-expanded=\"false\" aria-controls=\"collapse-qa-24-15\"><span class=\"accordion-count\">15<\/span><span class=\"q-and-a__box-title fw-bolder fs-3\">How to apply for \u2018family joining\u2019? \u2b07<\/span><\/button><\/h3><div id=\"collapse-qa-24-15\" class=\"accordion-collapse collapse\" aria-labelledby=\"q-and-a-item-15\" data-bs-parent=\"\"><div class=\"accordion-body py-16 px-20\" itemscope itemprop=\"acceptedAnswer\" itemtype=\"https:\/\/schema.org\/Answer\">\n<p>You will need an appointment at a Refugee Reception Office to add a dependent family member to your file for documentation. Follow these steps to start the process:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ol class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Email the Refugee Reception Office where you renewed your last refugee or asylum-seeker document.<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>ATTENTION!<\/strong> <strong>If you do not have your own email account, you will have to create one. You should use an email account that you can access in the future so that you can receive the Department of Home Affairs\u2019 replies to you. Make sure you remember your log-in and password details<\/strong>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Make sure you send the family joining application to the correct email address.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-table\"><table>\n<tbody>\n<tr>\n<td width=\"312\">Cape Town Refugee Reception Office<\/td>\n<td width=\"236\"><a href=\"mailto:inquiries.ctrro@dha.gov.za\">inquiries.ctrro@dha.gov.za<\/a><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td width=\"312\">Desmond Tutu Refugee Reception Office (Pretoria)<\/td>\n<td width=\"236\"><a href=\"mailto:inquiries.dtrro@dha.gov.za\">inquiries.dtrro@dha.gov.za<\/a><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td width=\"312\">Musina Refugee Reception Office<\/td>\n<td width=\"236\"><a href=\"mailto:inquiries.musinarro@dha.gov.za\">inquiries.musinarro@dha.gov.za<\/a><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td width=\"312\">Durban Refugee Reception Office<\/td>\n<td width=\"236\"><a href=\"mailto:inquiries.durbanrro@dha.gov.za\">inquiries.durbanrro@dha.gov.za<\/a><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td width=\"312\">Gqeberha Refugee Reception Office (formerly Port Elizabeth)<\/td>\n<td width=\"236\"><a href=\"mailto:newasylum2022@dha.gov.za\">newasylum2022@dha.gov.za<\/a><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/tbody>\n<\/table><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p>You will need to travel to this office. This will be at your own cost.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Include in your email the following information:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Write \u201cFamily Joining\u201d in the subject line;<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Write in the email, \u201cDear Sir or Madam, I am kindly requesting family joining for my husband \/ wife \/ children \/ elderly parent,\u201d; and<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Your full name, Home Affairs file number and contact number.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ol class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Go to the Refugee Reception Office on your appointment date<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n\n\n\n<p>Once you have sent your email, the Department of Home Affairs will send you another email with the details of your appointment (date, location, and time). You will have to go to the Refugee Reception Office on the day of your appointment with your family.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Make sure that you go to the Refugee Reception Office for your appointment.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Bring the people with you that you want to join into your file. This might be your spouse (husband or wife), elderly parent, or children.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Bring any important documents with you such as marriage certificates and birth certificates, and any other important documents that prove they are your family members.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>ATTENTION! If you are caring for a child that is not your biological child, we recommend contacting one of the organizations listed in the <\/strong><strong><a href=\"https:\/\/help.unhcr.org\/southafrica\/welcome\/legal\/\">Legal Assistance section<\/a><\/strong><strong> for further help with documentation. You will have to go to Children\u2019s Court for help with documentation. <\/strong><\/p>\n<\/div><\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-help-unhcr-q-and-a-inner q-and-a-inner accordion-item my-10 active\" id=\"qa-24\" data-item-content=\"q-and-a-item-16\" itemscope itemprop=\"mainEntity\" itemtype=\"https:\/\/schema.org\/Question\"><h3 class=\"accordion-header\" id=\"q-and-a-item-16\"><button class=\"accordion-button bg-info collapsed\" type=\"button\" data-bs-toggle=\"collapse\" data-bs-target=\"#collapse-qa-24-16\" aria-expanded=\"false\" aria-controls=\"collapse-qa-24-16\"><span class=\"accordion-count\">16<\/span><span class=\"q-and-a__box-title fw-bolder fs-3\">What should you do if you did not include all your dependents in your asylum application? \u2b07<\/span><\/button><\/h3><div id=\"collapse-qa-24-16\" class=\"accordion-collapse collapse\" aria-labelledby=\"q-and-a-item-16\" data-bs-parent=\"\"><div class=\"accordion-body py-16 px-20\" itemscope itemprop=\"acceptedAnswer\" itemtype=\"https:\/\/schema.org\/Answer\">\n<p>If you did not include all your dependent family members on your asylum application when you first made it, you should still try to join these children in your asylum file at the Refugee Reception Office.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>The Department of Home Affairs may request proof of your relationship (for example, DNA tests or supporting documentation) before doing a family joining for any dependents not included in the asylum application.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>ATTENTION! If you have questions or are unsure, please do not hesitate to contact the UNHCR Toll Free Helpline &nbsp;(0800 100 030) or seek legal advice immediately. A list of UNHCR Legal Partners can be found in the <\/strong><strong><a href=\"https:\/\/help.unhcr.org\/southafrica\/welcome\/legal\/\">Legal Assistance section<\/a><\/strong><strong>.<\/strong><\/p>\n<\/div><\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-help-unhcr-q-and-a-inner q-and-a-inner accordion-item my-10 active\" id=\"qa-24\" data-item-content=\"q-and-a-item-17\" itemscope itemprop=\"mainEntity\" itemtype=\"https:\/\/schema.org\/Question\"><h3 class=\"accordion-header\" id=\"q-and-a-item-17\"><button class=\"accordion-button bg-info collapsed\" type=\"button\" data-bs-toggle=\"collapse\" data-bs-target=\"#collapse-qa-24-17\" aria-expanded=\"false\" aria-controls=\"collapse-qa-24-17\"><span class=\"accordion-count\">17<\/span><span class=\"q-and-a__box-title fw-bolder fs-3\">How do I Renew my Asylum Seeker or Refugee Permits online? \u2b07<\/span><\/button><\/h3><div id=\"collapse-qa-24-17\" class=\"accordion-collapse collapse\" aria-labelledby=\"q-and-a-item-17\" data-bs-parent=\"\"><div class=\"accordion-body py-16 px-20\" itemscope itemprop=\"acceptedAnswer\" itemtype=\"https:\/\/schema.org\/Answer\">\n<p>The Refugee Reception offices were closed on 26 March 2020 due to the outbreak of COVID-19. In April 2021, the Department of Home Affairs started the online extension of refugee and asylum-seeker documentation.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>The Department of Home Affairs (DHA) offers an online extension service for asylum-seeker (section 22) and refugee (section 24) documentation.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">To renew your document, follow these steps:<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>STEP ONE<\/strong>: Send an email to&nbsp;<a href=\"mailto:asms.extensions@dha.gov.za\">asms.extensions@dha.gov.za<\/a>&nbsp;with ONLY your permit number on the subject line in CAPS LOCK.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Make sure you use your <u>own<\/u> email address.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>If you do not have your own email account, you will have to create one. You should use an email account that you can access in the future to receive the Department of Home Affairs\u2019 replies to you. <strong>Make sure you remember your log-in and password details<\/strong>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>In your email, you should:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>request the online extension of your asylum-seeker or refugee documentation to the Refugee Reception Office (RRO)<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>attach a request extension form, which all asylum seekers have been using to renew your document, if for whatever reason, you do not have a request extension form, download it online or request it from the DHA<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>attach proof of physical address in the email or a utility bill. If proof of address cannot be acquired, an affidavit from the police confirming the address where you stay will suffice<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>attach a copy (scan) of the existing\/ expired visa. If the visa is lost, you must submit an affidavit confirming the permit is lost and indicate the previous permit reference number<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Please note this important information:<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>In the case of families,\u00a0<strong>each member<\/strong>\u00a0must submit a request for an extension\u00a0<strong>individually<\/strong>.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Each individual application<\/strong>\u00a0must be sent in a\u00a0<strong>separate e-mail\u00a0<\/strong>message, even if they are sent from the same email address or account.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>The principal applicant must sign extension requests of minors, and the signature on those requests must be the same as the ones on the existing\/expired permits.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Where a visa or permit is issued and sent via email, it will include an email address at the bottom that allows a person (for example, your employer) or organisation (for example, your bank) to write to the DHA to verify that the permit is indeed a valid one.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>The\u00a0<strong>subject<\/strong>\u00a0line of the email must contain\u00a0<strong>ONLY<\/strong>\u00a0your DHA number<strong> (for example, CTRCOD10000000)<\/strong> in\u00a0<strong>CAPS LOCK!<\/strong><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>STEP TWO:<\/strong>&nbsp;Wait for DHA\u2019s response to your email. An automatic response may be sent with a request form.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>STEP THREE:<\/strong>&nbsp;Once all documents are sent and received at the DHA, they will consider the request and communicate their decision by email.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>If a request cannot be processed online, the DHA may ask you to appear in person at an RRO by sending you a letter with an appointment. This letter will provide you with the office name, date and time of their appointment.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>ATTENTION! Online documentation extension is a FREE SERVICE offered by the Department of Home Affairs. Be CAREFUL of scams and people charging money for the renewal of your documentation. Report Corruption: 0800 701 701 or <a href=\"mailto:report.corruption@dha.gov.za\">report.corruption@dha.gov.za<\/a> <\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<\/div><\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-help-unhcr-q-and-a-inner q-and-a-inner accordion-item my-10 active\" id=\"qa-24\" data-item-content=\"q-and-a-item-18\" itemscope itemprop=\"mainEntity\" itemtype=\"https:\/\/schema.org\/Question\"><h3 class=\"accordion-header\" id=\"q-and-a-item-18\"><button class=\"accordion-button bg-info collapsed\" type=\"button\" data-bs-toggle=\"collapse\" data-bs-target=\"#collapse-qa-24-18\" aria-expanded=\"false\" aria-controls=\"collapse-qa-24-18\"><span class=\"accordion-count\">18<\/span><span class=\"q-and-a__box-title fw-bolder fs-3\">How can you apply for a Refugee Identity Document? \u2b07<\/span><\/button><\/h3><div id=\"collapse-qa-24-18\" class=\"accordion-collapse collapse\" aria-labelledby=\"q-and-a-item-18\" data-bs-parent=\"\"><div class=\"accordion-body py-16 px-20\" itemscope itemprop=\"acceptedAnswer\" itemtype=\"https:\/\/schema.org\/Answer\">\n<p>If you are a recognized refugee, you can apply for an identity document (this \u2018refugee ID\u2019 is valid for the same time as the refugee status document (the \u2018section 24\u2019 permit). This refugee identity document will include a 13-digit unique ID number.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>ATTENTION! Asylum-seekers cannot apply for an identity document.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Follow these steps to start the application for a refugee identity document:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ol class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Make sure you use your <u>own<\/u> email address<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n\n\n\n<p>If you do not have your own email account, you will have to create one. You should use an email account that you can access in the future so that you can receive the Department of Home Affairs\u2019 replies to you. Make sure you remember your log-in and password details.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ol class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Send an email to the Department of Home Affairs<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n\n\n\n<p>You <u>must<\/u> attach the following documents to your email:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Copy of your valid refugee status document (it should still be valid for more than one year)<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Proof of Residence (or an affidavit from the Police Station with your address)<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p>Your email <u>must<\/u> include:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>In the subject line \u201c<em>Application for ID \u2013 Name of Refugee Reception Office (Names &amp; Surname \u2013 File Number)<\/em>\u201c<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p><em><strong>EXAMPLE: \u201cApplication for ID \u2013 Durban (Mary Ndawo \u2013 DBRSOM000121107)\u201d<\/strong><\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>In the email, include the Refugee Reception Office, where you will collect the document in person<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p>Make sure you send the email to the correct address:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>To apply for Refugee Identity Document, use\u00a0<strong><em><u><a href=\"mailto:refugeeID@dha.gov.za\">refugeeID@dha.gov.za<\/a><\/u><\/em><\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>For inquiries about Refugee Identity Document applications, use\u00a0<strong><em><u><a href=\"mailto:enquiryRefugeeID@dha.gov.za\">enquiryRefugeeID@dha.gov.za<\/a><\/u><\/em><\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>For collections of Refugee Identity Documents:\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong><em><u><a href=\"mailto:collectionDTRRO@dha.gov.za\">collectionDTRRO@dha.gov.za<\/a><\/u><\/em><\/strong>(Pretoria Refugee Reception Office)<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong><em><u><a href=\"mailto:collectionDurban@dha.gov.za\">collectionDurban@dha.gov.za<\/a><\/u><\/em><\/strong>(Durban Refugee Reception Office)<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong><em><u><a href=\"mailto:collectionMusina@dha.gov.za\">collectionMusina@dha.gov.za<\/a><\/u><\/em><\/strong>(Musina Refugee Reception Office)<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong><em><u><a href=\"mailto:collectionCTRRO@dha.gov.za\">collectionCTRRO@dha.gov.za<\/a><\/u><\/em><\/strong>(Cape Town Refugee Reception Office)<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong><em><u><a href=\"mailto:collectionPERRO@dha.gov.za\">collectionPERRO@dha.gov.za<\/a><\/u><\/em><\/strong>(Gqeberha \/ Port Elizabeth Refugee Reception Office)<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<ol class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Wait for a response from the Department of Home Affairs<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n\n\n\n<p>You will receive an automatic reply to acknowledge that the Department of Home Affairs has received your email. You must not reply to this email.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>ATTENTION! If you sent your application to <a href=\"mailto:enabledocument.asm@dha.gov.za\">enabledocument.asm@dha.gov.za<\/a> before 30 September 2022 it will be processed.<\/strong><\/p>\n<\/div><\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-help-unhcr-q-and-a-inner q-and-a-inner accordion-item my-10 active\" id=\"qa-24\" data-item-content=\"q-and-a-item-19\" itemscope itemprop=\"mainEntity\" itemtype=\"https:\/\/schema.org\/Question\"><h3 class=\"accordion-header\" id=\"q-and-a-item-19\"><button class=\"accordion-button bg-info collapsed\" type=\"button\" data-bs-toggle=\"collapse\" data-bs-target=\"#collapse-qa-24-19\" aria-expanded=\"false\" aria-controls=\"collapse-qa-24-19\"><span class=\"accordion-count\">19<\/span><span class=\"q-and-a__box-title fw-bolder fs-3\">How can you apply for a Refugee Travel Document? \u2b07<\/span><\/button><\/h3><div id=\"collapse-qa-24-19\" class=\"accordion-collapse collapse\" aria-labelledby=\"q-and-a-item-19\" data-bs-parent=\"\"><div class=\"accordion-body py-16 px-20\" itemscope itemprop=\"acceptedAnswer\" itemtype=\"https:\/\/schema.org\/Answer\">\n<p>If you are a recognized refugee, you can apply for a refugee travel document to travel outside of the Republic of South Africa.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>ATTENTION! <\/strong><strong>You can only apply for a refugee travel document if you have a valid refugee identity document.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Follow these steps to start the application for a refugee travel document:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ol class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Make sure you use your <u>own<\/u> email address<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n\n\n\n<p>If you do not have your own email account, you will have to create one. You should use an email account that you can access in the future so that you can receive the Department of Home Affairs\u2019 replies to you. Make sure you remember your log-in and password details.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ol class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Send an email to the Department of Home Affairs<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n\n\n\n<p>You <u>must<\/u> attach the following documents to your email:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>A letter to apply for the travel document with:\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Copy of your valid refugee identity document (it should still be valid for more than one year)<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Any supporting document for the request to travel (<em>for example, university admission letter, employment letter, invitation letter<\/em>)<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p>Your email <u>must<\/u> include:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>In the subject line \u2013\u00a0<strong><em>Application for Travel Document \u2013 Name of Refugee Reception Office (Names &amp; Surname \u2013 File Number)<\/em><\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>EXAMPLE: \u2018Application for Travel Document \u2013 Cape Town (\u00c9tienne Ndzube \u2013 PTACOD0020121106)<\/strong><em>\u2018<\/em><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p>Make sure you send the email to the correct address:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>To book for travel documents appointment, use\u00a0<strong><em><u><a href=\"mailto:traveldoc@dha.gov.za\">traveldoc@dha.gov.za<\/a><\/u><\/em><\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>For inquiries about travel documents, use <strong><em><u><a href=\"mailto:enquirytraveldoc@dha.gov.za\">enquirytraveldoc@dha.gov.za<\/a><\/u><\/em><\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>For collections of Refugee Travel Documents:\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong><em><u><a href=\"mailto:collectionDTRRO@dha.gov.za\">collectionDTRRO@dha.gov.za<\/a><\/u><\/em><\/strong>(Pretoria Refugee Reception Office)<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong><em><u><a href=\"mailto:collectionDurban@dha.gov.za\">collectionDurban@dha.gov.za<\/a><\/u><\/em><\/strong>(Durban Refugee Reception Office)<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong><em><u><a href=\"mailto:collectionMusina@dha.gov.za\">collectionMusina@dha.gov.za<\/a><\/u><\/em><\/strong>(Musina Refugee Reception Office)<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong><em><u><a href=\"mailto:collectionCTRRO@dha.gov.za\">collectionCTRRO@dha.gov.za<\/a><\/u><\/em><\/strong>(Cape Town Refugee Reception Office)<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong><em><u><a href=\"mailto:collectionPERRO@dha.gov.za\">collectionPERRO@dha.gov.za<\/a><\/u><\/em><\/strong>(Gqeberha \/ Port Elizabeth Refugee Reception Office)<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<ol class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Wait for a response from the Department of Home Affairs<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n\n\n\n<p>You will receive an email from the Department of Home Affairs to come for an appointment at the Refugee Reception Office.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>You will have to bring the following to your appointment:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Two passport photographs<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Payment of R400<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div><\/div><\/div>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n<div id=\"button-block-a-32\" class=\"wp-block-help-unhcr-button-block-a button-block-a content-listing__seven-styles content-listing__button-style\"><h2 class=\"button-block-a__heading pb-16 mb-30\" id=\"\">See also:<\/h2><div class=\"button-block-a__row button-block-a__one-column content-listing__button-style u-justify-start\"><div class=\"btn-info content-listing__item button-block-a__item show-items-hover-wrap btn-has-center-icon\" data-button-style=\"btn-info\" data-button-has-image-icon=\"no\"><div class=\"btn rounded fw-bolder button-block-a__inner btn-info\"><p data-button-center-icon=\"\" class=\"button-block-a__inner-text\"><a href=\"https:\/\/help.unhcr.org\/southafrica\/welcome\/legal\/\">Legal assistance<\/a><\/p><div class=\"button-block-a__sub-text-wrap\"><svg class=\"help-icon-arrow\" width=\"20\" height=\"20\" viewBox=\"0 0 15 15\" fill=\"none\" xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\"><path fill-rule=\"evenodd\" clip-rule=\"evenodd\" d=\"M4.55269 1.65017C4.59913 1.60652 4.65431 1.57189 4.71505 1.54826C4.7758 1.52462 4.84092 1.51246 4.90669 1.51246C4.97245 1.51246 5.03758 1.52462 5.09832 1.54826C5.15907 1.57189 5.21424 1.60652 5.26069 1.65017L11.2607 7.27517C11.3073 7.31872 11.3442 7.37044 11.3694 7.42739C11.3946 7.48434 11.4076 7.54539 11.4076 7.60705C11.4076 7.66871 11.3946 7.72976 11.3694 7.7867C11.3442 7.84365 11.3073 7.89538 11.2607 7.93892L5.26069 13.5639C5.1668 13.6519 5.03946 13.7014 4.90669 13.7014C4.77391 13.7014 4.64657 13.6519 4.55269 13.5639C4.4588 13.4759 4.40606 13.3565 4.40606 13.232C4.40606 13.1076 4.4588 12.9882 4.55269 12.9002L10.1997 7.60705L4.55269 2.31392C4.50612 2.27038 4.46918 2.21865 4.44397 2.16171C4.41877 2.10476 4.40579 2.04371 4.40579 1.98205C4.40579 1.92039 4.41877 1.85934 4.44397 1.80239C4.46918 1.74544 4.50612 1.69372 4.55269 1.65017Z\" fill=\"currentColor\"><\/path><path fill-rule=\"evenodd\" clip-rule=\"evenodd\" d=\"M5.23806 1.28613C4.95553 1.28613 4.67273 1.38737 4.45704 1.58958C4.02539 1.99399 4.02539 2.64981 4.45704 3.05423L9.19945 7.49998L4.45704 11.946C4.02539 12.3504 4.02539 13.0062 4.45704 13.4106C4.88842 13.8151 5.58796 13.8151 6.01934 13.4106L11.5428 8.23244C11.9741 7.82802 11.9741 7.1722 11.5428 6.76778L6.01934 1.58958C5.80365 1.38737 5.52086 1.28613 5.23806 1.28613Z\" fill=\"currentColor\"><\/path><\/svg><\/div><\/div><\/div><div class=\"btn-info content-listing__item button-block-a__item show-items-hover-wrap btn-has-center-icon\" data-button-style=\"btn-info\" data-button-has-image-icon=\"no\"><div class=\"btn rounded fw-bolder button-block-a__inner btn-info\"><p data-button-center-icon=\"\" class=\"button-block-a__inner-text\"><a href=\"https:\/\/help.unhcr.org\/southafrica\/welcome\/documentation\/\">Registration, Documentation and Identity<\/a><\/p><div class=\"button-block-a__sub-text-wrap\"><svg class=\"help-icon-arrow\" width=\"20\" height=\"20\" viewBox=\"0 0 15 15\" fill=\"none\" xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\"><path fill-rule=\"evenodd\" clip-rule=\"evenodd\" d=\"M4.55269 1.65017C4.59913 1.60652 4.65431 1.57189 4.71505 1.54826C4.7758 1.52462 4.84092 1.51246 4.90669 1.51246C4.97245 1.51246 5.03758 1.52462 5.09832 1.54826C5.15907 1.57189 5.21424 1.60652 5.26069 1.65017L11.2607 7.27517C11.3073 7.31872 11.3442 7.37044 11.3694 7.42739C11.3946 7.48434 11.4076 7.54539 11.4076 7.60705C11.4076 7.66871 11.3946 7.72976 11.3694 7.7867C11.3442 7.84365 11.3073 7.89538 11.2607 7.93892L5.26069 13.5639C5.1668 13.6519 5.03946 13.7014 4.90669 13.7014C4.77391 13.7014 4.64657 13.6519 4.55269 13.5639C4.4588 13.4759 4.40606 13.3565 4.40606 13.232C4.40606 13.1076 4.4588 12.9882 4.55269 12.9002L10.1997 7.60705L4.55269 2.31392C4.50612 2.27038 4.46918 2.21865 4.44397 2.16171C4.41877 2.10476 4.40579 2.04371 4.40579 1.98205C4.40579 1.92039 4.41877 1.85934 4.44397 1.80239C4.46918 1.74544 4.50612 1.69372 4.55269 1.65017Z\" fill=\"currentColor\"><\/path><path fill-rule=\"evenodd\" clip-rule=\"evenodd\" d=\"M5.23806 1.28613C4.95553 1.28613 4.67273 1.38737 4.45704 1.58958C4.02539 1.99399 4.02539 2.64981 4.45704 3.05423L9.19945 7.49998L4.45704 11.946C4.02539 12.3504 4.02539 13.0062 4.45704 13.4106C4.88842 13.8151 5.58796 13.8151 6.01934 13.4106L11.5428 8.23244C11.9741 7.82802 11.9741 7.1722 11.5428 6.76778L6.01934 1.58958C5.80365 1.38737 5.52086 1.28613 5.23806 1.28613Z\" fill=\"currentColor\"><\/path><\/svg><\/div><\/div><\/div><div class=\"btn-info content-listing__item button-block-a__item show-items-hover-wrap btn-has-center-icon\" data-button-style=\"btn-info\" data-button-has-image-icon=\"no\"><div class=\"btn rounded fw-bolder button-block-a__inner btn-info\"><p data-button-center-icon=\"\" class=\"button-block-a__inner-text\"><a href=\"https:\/\/help.unhcr.org\/southafrica\/welcome\/family\/\">Family Tracing &amp; Reunification<\/a><\/p><div class=\"button-block-a__sub-text-wrap\"><svg class=\"help-icon-arrow\" width=\"20\" height=\"20\" viewBox=\"0 0 15 15\" fill=\"none\" xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\"><path fill-rule=\"evenodd\" clip-rule=\"evenodd\" d=\"M4.55269 1.65017C4.59913 1.60652 4.65431 1.57189 4.71505 1.54826C4.7758 1.52462 4.84092 1.51246 4.90669 1.51246C4.97245 1.51246 5.03758 1.52462 5.09832 1.54826C5.15907 1.57189 5.21424 1.60652 5.26069 1.65017L11.2607 7.27517C11.3073 7.31872 11.3442 7.37044 11.3694 7.42739C11.3946 7.48434 11.4076 7.54539 11.4076 7.60705C11.4076 7.66871 11.3946 7.72976 11.3694 7.7867C11.3442 7.84365 11.3073 7.89538 11.2607 7.93892L5.26069 13.5639C5.1668 13.6519 5.03946 13.7014 4.90669 13.7014C4.77391 13.7014 4.64657 13.6519 4.55269 13.5639C4.4588 13.4759 4.40606 13.3565 4.40606 13.232C4.40606 13.1076 4.4588 12.9882 4.55269 12.9002L10.1997 7.60705L4.55269 2.31392C4.50612 2.27038 4.46918 2.21865 4.44397 2.16171C4.41877 2.10476 4.40579 2.04371 4.40579 1.98205C4.40579 1.92039 4.41877 1.85934 4.44397 1.80239C4.46918 1.74544 4.50612 1.69372 4.55269 1.65017Z\" fill=\"currentColor\"><\/path><path fill-rule=\"evenodd\" clip-rule=\"evenodd\" d=\"M5.23806 1.28613C4.95553 1.28613 4.67273 1.38737 4.45704 1.58958C4.02539 1.99399 4.02539 2.64981 4.45704 3.05423L9.19945 7.49998L4.45704 11.946C4.02539 12.3504 4.02539 13.0062 4.45704 13.4106C4.88842 13.8151 5.58796 13.8151 6.01934 13.4106L11.5428 8.23244C11.9741 7.82802 11.9741 7.1722 11.5428 6.76778L6.01934 1.58958C5.80365 1.38737 5.52086 1.28613 5.23806 1.28613Z\" fill=\"currentColor\"><\/path><\/svg><\/div><\/div><\/div><div class=\"btn-info content-listing__item button-block-a__item show-items-hover-wrap btn-has-center-icon\" data-button-style=\"btn-info\" data-button-has-image-icon=\"no\"><div class=\"btn rounded fw-bolder button-block-a__inner btn-info\"><p data-button-center-icon=\"\" class=\"button-block-a__inner-text\"><a href=\"https:\/\/help.unhcr.org\/southafrica\/welcome\/resettlement\/\">Resettlement<\/a><\/p><div class=\"button-block-a__sub-text-wrap\"><svg class=\"help-icon-arrow\" width=\"20\" height=\"20\" viewBox=\"0 0 15 15\" fill=\"none\" xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\"><path fill-rule=\"evenodd\" clip-rule=\"evenodd\" d=\"M4.55269 1.65017C4.59913 1.60652 4.65431 1.57189 4.71505 1.54826C4.7758 1.52462 4.84092 1.51246 4.90669 1.51246C4.97245 1.51246 5.03758 1.52462 5.09832 1.54826C5.15907 1.57189 5.21424 1.60652 5.26069 1.65017L11.2607 7.27517C11.3073 7.31872 11.3442 7.37044 11.3694 7.42739C11.3946 7.48434 11.4076 7.54539 11.4076 7.60705C11.4076 7.66871 11.3946 7.72976 11.3694 7.7867C11.3442 7.84365 11.3073 7.89538 11.2607 7.93892L5.26069 13.5639C5.1668 13.6519 5.03946 13.7014 4.90669 13.7014C4.77391 13.7014 4.64657 13.6519 4.55269 13.5639C4.4588 13.4759 4.40606 13.3565 4.40606 13.232C4.40606 13.1076 4.4588 12.9882 4.55269 12.9002L10.1997 7.60705L4.55269 2.31392C4.50612 2.27038 4.46918 2.21865 4.44397 2.16171C4.41877 2.10476 4.40579 2.04371 4.40579 1.98205C4.40579 1.92039 4.41877 1.85934 4.44397 1.80239C4.46918 1.74544 4.50612 1.69372 4.55269 1.65017Z\" fill=\"currentColor\"><\/path><path fill-rule=\"evenodd\" clip-rule=\"evenodd\" d=\"M5.23806 1.28613C4.95553 1.28613 4.67273 1.38737 4.45704 1.58958C4.02539 1.99399 4.02539 2.64981 4.45704 3.05423L9.19945 7.49998L4.45704 11.946C4.02539 12.3504 4.02539 13.0062 4.45704 13.4106C4.88842 13.8151 5.58796 13.8151 6.01934 13.4106L11.5428 8.23244C11.9741 7.82802 11.9741 7.1722 11.5428 6.76778L6.01934 1.58958C5.80365 1.38737 5.52086 1.28613 5.23806 1.28613Z\" fill=\"currentColor\"><\/path><\/svg><\/div><\/div><\/div><div class=\"btn-info content-listing__item button-block-a__item show-items-hover-wrap btn-has-center-icon\" data-button-style=\"btn-info\" data-button-has-image-icon=\"no\"><div class=\"btn rounded fw-bolder button-block-a__inner btn-info\"><p data-button-center-icon=\"\" class=\"button-block-a__inner-text\"><a href=\"https:\/\/help.unhcr.org\/southafrica\/welcome\/contact\/\">About UNHCR &amp; Contacts<\/a><\/p><div class=\"button-block-a__sub-text-wrap\"><svg class=\"help-icon-arrow\" width=\"20\" height=\"20\" viewBox=\"0 0 15 15\" fill=\"none\" xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\"><path fill-rule=\"evenodd\" clip-rule=\"evenodd\" d=\"M4.55269 1.65017C4.59913 1.60652 4.65431 1.57189 4.71505 1.54826C4.7758 1.52462 4.84092 1.51246 4.90669 1.51246C4.97245 1.51246 5.03758 1.52462 5.09832 1.54826C5.15907 1.57189 5.21424 1.60652 5.26069 1.65017L11.2607 7.27517C11.3073 7.31872 11.3442 7.37044 11.3694 7.42739C11.3946 7.48434 11.4076 7.54539 11.4076 7.60705C11.4076 7.66871 11.3946 7.72976 11.3694 7.7867C11.3442 7.84365 11.3073 7.89538 11.2607 7.93892L5.26069 13.5639C5.1668 13.6519 5.03946 13.7014 4.90669 13.7014C4.77391 13.7014 4.64657 13.6519 4.55269 13.5639C4.4588 13.4759 4.40606 13.3565 4.40606 13.232C4.40606 13.1076 4.4588 12.9882 4.55269 12.9002L10.1997 7.60705L4.55269 2.31392C4.50612 2.27038 4.46918 2.21865 4.44397 2.16171C4.41877 2.10476 4.40579 2.04371 4.40579 1.98205C4.40579 1.92039 4.41877 1.85934 4.44397 1.80239C4.46918 1.74544 4.50612 1.69372 4.55269 1.65017Z\" fill=\"currentColor\"><\/path><path fill-rule=\"evenodd\" clip-rule=\"evenodd\" d=\"M5.23806 1.28613C4.95553 1.28613 4.67273 1.38737 4.45704 1.58958C4.02539 1.99399 4.02539 2.64981 4.45704 3.05423L9.19945 7.49998L4.45704 11.946C4.02539 12.3504 4.02539 13.0062 4.45704 13.4106C4.88842 13.8151 5.58796 13.8151 6.01934 13.4106L11.5428 8.23244C11.9741 7.82802 11.9741 7.1722 11.5428 6.76778L6.01934 1.58958C5.80365 1.38737 5.52086 1.28613 5.23806 1.28613Z\" fill=\"currentColor\"><\/path><\/svg><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n<div id=\"button-block-a-33\" class=\"wp-block-help-unhcr-button-block-a button-block-a content-listing__seven-styles content-listing__button-style\"><h2 class=\"button-block-a__heading pb-16 mb-30\" id=\"\">Source and more information<\/h2><div class=\"button-block-a__row button-block-a__one-column content-listing__button-style u-justify-start\"><div class=\"btn-info content-listing__item button-block-a__item show-items-hover-wrap btn-has-center-icon\" data-button-style=\"btn-info\" data-button-has-image-icon=\"yes\"><div class=\"btn rounded fw-bolder button-block-a__inner btn-info\"><p data-button-center-icon=\"\" class=\"button-block-a__inner-text\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.dha.gov.za\/index.php\/immigration-services\/refugee-status-asylum\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Department of Home Affairs: Refugee Status &amp; Asylum<\/a><\/p><div class=\"button-block-a__sub-text-wrap\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" alt=\"Button Icon\" width=\"24\" height=\"24\" class=\"button-block-a__img\" src=\"https:\/\/help.unhcr.org\/southafrica\/wp-content\/themes\/help-unhcr\/assets\/src\/images\/external-link-icon.svg\"\/><\/div><\/div><\/div><div class=\"btn-info content-listing__item button-block-a__item show-items-hover-wrap btn-has-center-icon\" data-button-style=\"btn-info\" data-button-has-image-icon=\"no\"><div class=\"btn rounded fw-bolder button-block-a__inner btn-info\"><p data-button-center-icon=\"\" class=\"button-block-a__inner-text\"><a href=\"http:\/\/www.dha.gov.za\/images\/REFUGEES_ACT_130_OF_1998.pdf\">Refugees Act [No. 130 of 1998]<\/a><\/p><div class=\"button-block-a__sub-text-wrap\"><svg class=\"help-icon-arrow\" width=\"20\" height=\"20\" viewBox=\"0 0 15 15\" fill=\"none\" xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\"><path fill-rule=\"evenodd\" clip-rule=\"evenodd\" d=\"M4.55269 1.65017C4.59913 1.60652 4.65431 1.57189 4.71505 1.54826C4.7758 1.52462 4.84092 1.51246 4.90669 1.51246C4.97245 1.51246 5.03758 1.52462 5.09832 1.54826C5.15907 1.57189 5.21424 1.60652 5.26069 1.65017L11.2607 7.27517C11.3073 7.31872 11.3442 7.37044 11.3694 7.42739C11.3946 7.48434 11.4076 7.54539 11.4076 7.60705C11.4076 7.66871 11.3946 7.72976 11.3694 7.7867C11.3442 7.84365 11.3073 7.89538 11.2607 7.93892L5.26069 13.5639C5.1668 13.6519 5.03946 13.7014 4.90669 13.7014C4.77391 13.7014 4.64657 13.6519 4.55269 13.5639C4.4588 13.4759 4.40606 13.3565 4.40606 13.232C4.40606 13.1076 4.4588 12.9882 4.55269 12.9002L10.1997 7.60705L4.55269 2.31392C4.50612 2.27038 4.46918 2.21865 4.44397 2.16171C4.41877 2.10476 4.40579 2.04371 4.40579 1.98205C4.40579 1.92039 4.41877 1.85934 4.44397 1.80239C4.46918 1.74544 4.50612 1.69372 4.55269 1.65017Z\" fill=\"currentColor\"><\/path><path fill-rule=\"evenodd\" clip-rule=\"evenodd\" d=\"M5.23806 1.28613C4.95553 1.28613 4.67273 1.38737 4.45704 1.58958C4.02539 1.99399 4.02539 2.64981 4.45704 3.05423L9.19945 7.49998L4.45704 11.946C4.02539 12.3504 4.02539 13.0062 4.45704 13.4106C4.88842 13.8151 5.58796 13.8151 6.01934 13.4106L11.5428 8.23244C11.9741 7.82802 11.9741 7.1722 11.5428 6.76778L6.01934 1.58958C5.80365 1.38737 5.52086 1.28613 5.23806 1.28613Z\" fill=\"currentColor\"><\/path><\/svg><\/div><\/div><\/div><div class=\"btn-info content-listing__item button-block-a__item show-items-hover-wrap btn-has-center-icon\" data-button-style=\"btn-info\" data-button-has-image-icon=\"yes\"><div class=\"btn rounded fw-bolder button-block-a__inner btn-info\"><p data-button-center-icon=\"\" class=\"button-block-a__inner-text\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.gov.za\/sites\/default\/files\/gcis_document\/202001\/42932rg11024gon1707.pdf\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Refugees Regulations<\/a><\/p><div class=\"button-block-a__sub-text-wrap\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" alt=\"Button Icon\" width=\"24\" height=\"24\" class=\"button-block-a__img\" src=\"https:\/\/help.unhcr.org\/southafrica\/wp-content\/themes\/help-unhcr\/assets\/src\/images\/external-link-icon.svg\"\/><\/div><\/div><\/div><div class=\"btn-info content-listing__item button-block-a__item show-items-hover-wrap btn-has-center-icon\" data-button-style=\"btn-info\" data-button-has-image-icon=\"yes\"><div class=\"btn rounded fw-bolder button-block-a__inner btn-info\"><p data-button-center-icon=\"\" class=\"button-block-a__inner-text\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.scalabrini.org.za\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/02\/Scalabrini-Centre-Cape-TownYour-Guide-Refugee-Law-South-Africa-full-guide-3.pdf\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Refugee Law in South Africa<\/a><\/p><div class=\"button-block-a__sub-text-wrap\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" alt=\"Button Icon\" width=\"24\" height=\"24\" class=\"button-block-a__img\" src=\"https:\/\/help.unhcr.org\/southafrica\/wp-content\/themes\/help-unhcr\/assets\/src\/images\/external-link-icon.svg\"\/><\/div><\/div><\/div><div class=\"btn-info content-listing__item button-block-a__item show-items-hover-wrap btn-has-center-icon\" data-button-style=\"btn-info\" data-button-has-image-icon=\"yes\"><div class=\"btn rounded fw-bolder button-block-a__inner btn-info\"><p data-button-center-icon=\"\" class=\"button-block-a__inner-text\"><a href=\"https:\/\/law.uct.ac.za\/sites\/default\/files\/content_migration\/law_uct_ac_za\/1170\/files\/14814%2520RSD%2520manual%25202021.web2_.pdf\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Refugee Status Determination Manual<\/a><\/p><div class=\"button-block-a__sub-text-wrap\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" alt=\"Button Icon\" width=\"24\" height=\"24\" class=\"button-block-a__img\" src=\"https:\/\/help.unhcr.org\/southafrica\/wp-content\/themes\/help-unhcr\/assets\/src\/images\/external-link-icon.svg\"\/><\/div><\/div><\/div><div class=\"btn-info content-listing__item button-block-a__item show-items-hover-wrap btn-has-center-icon\" data-button-style=\"btn-info\" data-button-has-image-icon=\"no\"><div class=\"btn rounded fw-bolder button-block-a__inner btn-info\"><p data-button-center-icon=\"\" class=\"button-block-a__inner-text\"><a href=\"https:\/\/redsafe.icrc.org\/default-country-initial\">web app<\/a><\/p><div class=\"button-block-a__sub-text-wrap\"><svg class=\"help-icon-arrow\" width=\"20\" height=\"20\" viewBox=\"0 0 15 15\" fill=\"none\" xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\"><path fill-rule=\"evenodd\" clip-rule=\"evenodd\" d=\"M4.55269 1.65017C4.59913 1.60652 4.65431 1.57189 4.71505 1.54826C4.7758 1.52462 4.84092 1.51246 4.90669 1.51246C4.97245 1.51246 5.03758 1.52462 5.09832 1.54826C5.15907 1.57189 5.21424 1.60652 5.26069 1.65017L11.2607 7.27517C11.3073 7.31872 11.3442 7.37044 11.3694 7.42739C11.3946 7.48434 11.4076 7.54539 11.4076 7.60705C11.4076 7.66871 11.3946 7.72976 11.3694 7.7867C11.3442 7.84365 11.3073 7.89538 11.2607 7.93892L5.26069 13.5639C5.1668 13.6519 5.03946 13.7014 4.90669 13.7014C4.77391 13.7014 4.64657 13.6519 4.55269 13.5639C4.4588 13.4759 4.40606 13.3565 4.40606 13.232C4.40606 13.1076 4.4588 12.9882 4.55269 12.9002L10.1997 7.60705L4.55269 2.31392C4.50612 2.27038 4.46918 2.21865 4.44397 2.16171C4.41877 2.10476 4.40579 2.04371 4.40579 1.98205C4.40579 1.92039 4.41877 1.85934 4.44397 1.80239C4.46918 1.74544 4.50612 1.69372 4.55269 1.65017Z\" fill=\"currentColor\"><\/path><path fill-rule=\"evenodd\" clip-rule=\"evenodd\" d=\"M5.23806 1.28613C4.95553 1.28613 4.67273 1.38737 4.45704 1.58958C4.02539 1.99399 4.02539 2.64981 4.45704 3.05423L9.19945 7.49998L4.45704 11.946C4.02539 12.3504 4.02539 13.0062 4.45704 13.4106C4.88842 13.8151 5.58796 13.8151 6.01934 13.4106L11.5428 8.23244C11.9741 7.82802 11.9741 7.1722 11.5428 6.76778L6.01934 1.58958C5.80365 1.38737 5.52086 1.28613 5.23806 1.28613Z\" fill=\"currentColor\"><\/path><\/svg><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>The Department for Home Affairs of the South African government runs the asylum process in South Africa. You can read about the process in the Refugees Act (see Sections 21, 22 and 24) together with the Refugees Act Regulations (see sections 2, 7, 8 and 14) and the Immigration Act (section 23). The definition of [&hellip;]<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":47,"featured_media":0,"parent":725,"menu_order":15,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","template":"","meta":{"_acf_changed":false,"footnotes":""},"topics":[27],"audiences":[],"class_list":["post-129","page","type-page","status-publish","hentry","topics-asylum"],"acf":[],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/help.unhcr.org\/southafrica\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/pages\/129","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/help.unhcr.org\/southafrica\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/pages"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/help.unhcr.org\/southafrica\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/page"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/help.unhcr.org\/southafrica\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/47"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/help.unhcr.org\/southafrica\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=129"}],"version-history":[{"count":47,"href":"https:\/\/help.unhcr.org\/southafrica\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/pages\/129\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":2076,"href":"https:\/\/help.unhcr.org\/southafrica\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/pages\/129\/revisions\/2076"}],"up":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/help.unhcr.org\/southafrica\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/pages\/725"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/help.unhcr.org\/southafrica\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=129"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"topics","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/help.unhcr.org\/southafrica\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/topics?post=129"},{"taxonomy":"audiences","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/help.unhcr.org\/southafrica\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/audiences?post=129"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}