Asylum Seekers Face Documentation and Employment Challenges in South Africa

Asylum Seekers Face Challenges in South Africa’s Immigration System

Asylum seekers in South Africa continue to encounter difficulties obtaining legal documents, finding jobs and building stable lives due to ongoing challenges within the country’s immigration system.

A report published by GroundUp on October 22, 2026, highlights the experiences of people who came to South Africa seeking protection from violence and possible persecution in their home countries. Some have struggled to obtain the necessary asylum documents because of problems accessing refugee reception offices.

Among those featured in the report is Brian, a Zimbabwean national who arrived in South Africa in 2022. He previously worked as a bartender in Gqeberha, where he earned around R8,000 a month. However, he reportedly lost his job after his employer asked him to provide a valid permit.

Brian explained that he feared persecution in Zimbabwe and believed he had grounds to seek asylum. His experience demonstrates how difficulties with immigration documentation can affect employment opportunities and people’s ability to provide for themselves.

The report also highlights the experience of João, a Mozambican national who left his country following political violence after the October 2024 elections. Although he entered South Africa with a valid passport, he encountered difficulties obtaining asylum documents after his authorised period of stay expired.

João now lives in Gqeberha, where he earns money through painting jobs. His circumstances reflect the uncertainty some asylum seekers face while trying to rebuild their lives in a new country.

South Africa’s refugee reception system has experienced ongoing challenges, making it difficult for some applicants to complete the registration process. A lack of appropriate documentation can create obstacles when seeking employment or demonstrating legal status.

The situation has also unfolded against a backdrop of anti-immigrant protests. According to the GroundUp report, efforts to reopen refugee reception offices in September were followed by demonstrations and reported attacks against asylum seekers in certain areas. The Department of Home Affairs subsequently closed the offices again, citing unintended consequences.

Court decisions have also played a role in shaping the legal position of people seeking asylum. These developments include questions surrounding the rights of individuals who intend to apply for protection and safeguards against deportation while their claims are being pursued.

Proposed Changes to the Application Process

The government has announced plans to introduce an online appointment system intended to make it easier for asylum seekers to access refugee reception services.

The report states that Justice Minister Mmamoloko Kubayi outlined a proposal that would allow applicants to schedule appointments online. Assistance would also be available to those who require help completing the registration process.

The proposed system could improve access to asylum services if implemented effectively. However, its success will depend on how the arrangements work in practice and whether applicants can obtain the assistance and documentation they need.

The experiences highlighted in the report demonstrate the difficulties some asylum seekers encounter while navigating South Africa’s immigration system. Access to the proper documentation remains important for those seeking employment, greater stability and a fair opportunity to have their asylum applications considered.

Source: https://www.news24.com/southafrica/life-as-an-asylum-seeker-in-sas-broken-immigration-system-20261022-0572

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