SASSA Reveals R1.28 Billion Paid To Eligible Foreign Nationals During 2025/26 Financial Year

The South African Social Security Agency (SASSA) has revealed that approximately R1.28 billion was paid to legally eligible foreign nationals through social grants and Social Relief of Distress (SRD) payments during the 2025/26 financial year.

The figures were disclosed by Social Development Minister Dina Pule in a written response to a parliamentary question submitted by African Transformation Movement (ATM) leader Vuyo Zungula. The disclosure has reignited public debate about social assistance, immigration, and government spending priorities.

According to the figures, the total expenditure accounted for less than one percent of South Africa’s overall social assistance budget. The largest portion of the funding went to permanent residents who qualify for social assistance under South African law.

Permanent residents reportedly received approximately R1.12 billion in grants. Older Persons Grants made up the largest portion at around R931.5 million. Child Support Grants accounted for approximately R134.5 million, while Disability Grants represented roughly R31.7 million. Additional allocations were made through Care Dependency Grants, Grant-in-Aid, and Foster Child Grants.

Recognised refugees received approximately R150.8 million in social assistance. Child Support Grants represented the largest share of that amount, followed by Older Persons Grants and Disability Grants.

The figures also showed that approximately R10.6 million was spent on R370 SRD payments to qualifying foreign nationals. According to the department, beneficiaries included holders of Lesotho Exemption Permits, recognised asylum seekers, Zimbabwean Exemption Permit holders, and recipients under the Special Angolan Dispensation programme.

Minister Pule stressed that social assistance is only available to individuals who meet specific legal requirements. She emphasised that South African citizens, permanent residents, and recognised refugees may qualify if they satisfy all eligibility criteria.

The minister further stated that undocumented immigrants do not qualify for social grants or SRD payments. SASSA says eligibility checks are conducted against Department of Home Affairs records before benefits are approved.

The disclosure has generated mixed reactions, with some supporting the application of existing legislation while others continue calling for tighter controls over social spending.

Independent media platforms such as ThePulse continue monitoring developments relating to social grants, public expenditure, and government policy.

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