South Africans Furious As SASSA Confirms Foreigners Received Millions In SRD Cash

The South African Social Security Agency (SASSA) has revealed that approximately R1.28 billion was paid in social assistance to qualifying foreign nationals during the 2025/26 financial year.

The figures were disclosed by Social Development Minister Dina Pule in a written parliamentary response to African Transformation Movement (ATM) MP Vuyo Zungula. According to the information provided, the amount represents less than 1% of South Africa’s overall social assistance expenditure.

Permanent residents accounted for the largest share of the payments, receiving approximately R1.12 billion. Older Persons Grants made up the biggest portion, amounting to R931.5 million. A further R134.5 million went towards Child Support Grants, while R31.7 million was allocated to Disability Grants. The remaining amount covered other qualifying social assistance categories.

Recognised refugees received approximately R150.8 million during the same financial year. Of this amount, R105.8 million was distributed through Child Support Grants, while R32.7 million went towards Older Persons Grants.

The figures also showed that approximately R10.6 million was paid through the Social Relief of Distress (SRD) R370 grant to eligible foreign nationals holding specific permits or documentation. Beneficiaries included Lesotho Exemption Permit holders, asylum seekers, Zimbabwean Exemption Permit holders and Angolan special permit holders.

Minister Pule explained that access to social assistance is governed by specific legal requirements. Eligible categories include South African citizens, permanent residents, recognised refugees and certain documented foreign nationals who qualify for temporary emergency assistance.

SASSA also emphasised that undocumented immigrants and individuals unlawfully residing in South Africa do not qualify for social grants or SRD payments.

To prevent fraudulent claims and irregular payments, the agency said it verifies applicants’ information against Department of Home Affairs records before approving benefits.

The disclosure comes amid growing political debate about immigration, government spending and the eligibility of foreign nationals for social assistance ahead of South Africa’s local government elections.

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