What steps should I take immediately if my asylum document has expired?

Introduction to Legal Principles

In South Africa, asylum seekers are required to renew their permits regularly to maintain their legal status. However, challenges such as expired permits and fines can arise, especially when Refugee Reception Offices are closed. The legal framework governing asylum seekers includes the Refugees Act, 130 of 1998, which outlines procedures for permit renewals and the consequences of expired documents.

Current Challenges

• Expired Permits: If an asylum seeker’s permit expires for more than a month, their claim may be considered abandoned, leading to potential deportation and inability to reapply for asylum.
• Closure of Refugee Offices: The closure of Refugee Reception Offices has made it difficult for asylum seekers to renew their permits, leading to fines and legal complications.

The Department of Home affairs lists these steps one should follow to renew an expired visa: https://www.dha.gov.za/index.php/notices/1441-online-extension-of-asylum-seekers-and-refugees-visas

Organizations Offering Assistance

Several organizations partner with the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR) to provide free legal services to asylum seekers and refugees. These organizations can assist with permit renewals and address issues related to expired documents:

• Lawyers for Human Rights: Offers legal assistance in Johannesburg, Musina, Durban, and Pretoria. https://www.lhr.org.za/ They can be contacted via email at info@lhr.org.za.
• University of Cape Town Refugee Rights Unit: Provides legal support and can be reached at https://law.uct.ac.za/refugee-rights and  refugeelawclinic@uct.ac.za.
• Nelson Mandela University Refugee Rights Centre: Offers similar services and can be contacted at info@mandela.ac.za.

Additional Support

• UNHCR Partnerships: The UNHCR works with various partners to provide social assistance, including support for vulnerable individuals such as unaccompanied minors and survivors of sexual and gender-based violence.