Can Foreigners Access SASSA Grants?

Do you live in South Africa but don’t hold citizenship? Unsure whether your refugee or asylum status lets you apply for a SASSA grant? If you’re in a tough spot financially, this guide clears up exactly who qualifies, what’s allowed, and what you need to apply.

Can Foreigners Access SASSA Grants? (Quick Answer)

Foreigners can access SASSA grants only if they hold valid refugee status, permanent residency, or approved permits. Asylum seekers may qualify for the SRD grant, but other foreign nationals without legal residency cannot receive SASSA financial support in South Africa.

Who Qualifies for SASSA Grants?

SASSA (South African Social Security Agency) gives grants to people living in South Africa who need financial support. But not everyone qualifies. Your citizenship or residency status plays a major role.

Here’s who can apply:

South African Citizens

This is the main group SASSA was created to support. All South African citizens, if they meet the income and age rules, can apply for grants like the Child Support Grant, Older Persons Grant, and Disability Grant.

Permanent Residents

If you’re not a citizen but you hold a valid permanent residence permit, you can apply for all standard SASSA grants — just like a citizen.

Recognised Refugees

If you’re officially recognised as a refugee by Home Affairs, and you hold a valid refugee ID, you qualify for most SASSA grants. Your refugee ID must still be active and legally valid.

Asylum Seekers (Limited Access)

If you’re an asylum seeker with a valid section 22 permit, you may qualify — but only for the Social Relief of Distress (SRD) grant. You cannot access permanent grants like the Disability or Child Support grant.

Special Permit Holders

Some foreigners with specific permits — like the Zimbabwe Exemption Permit (ZEP) — may qualify for the SRD R370 grant, but not for long-term grants.

Who Cannot Get SASSA Grants?

You won’t qualify for any SASSA grant if:

• You’re in South Africa on a temporary visa or tourist permit
• You’re an undocumented foreign national
• You’re a student or worker on a short-term visa
• You’re in a government-subsidised institution (for most grants)

Being in South Africa doesn’t guarantee access to SASSA funds. The law is strict about who gets support.

Which Grants Can Foreigners Apply For?

Grant Type	Citizens	Permanent Residents	Refugees	Asylum Seekers	Special Permit Holders
Child Support Grant	✅	✅	✅	❌	❌
Older Persons Grant	✅	✅	✅	❌	❌
Disability Grant	✅	✅	✅	❌	❌
Foster Child Grant	✅	✅	✅	❌	❌
SRD R370 Grant	✅	✅	✅	✅ (with permit)	✅ (with permit)

What Documents Do Foreigners Need to Apply?

If you qualify as a refugee, permanent resident, or asylum seeker, you’ll need these:

For Refugees:

• Valid refugee ID document
• Proof of refugee status from the Department of Home Affairs
• Proof of income (if needed for the grant)
• Proof of residence (like a utility bill or affidavit)

For Permanent Residents:

• Valid permanent residence permit
• South African ID or smart card
• Proof of income
• Proof of residence

For Asylum Seekers (SRD Grant Only):

• Valid section 22 permit
• Cellphone number for OTP
• No income or alternative support source

How to Apply for a SASSA Grant as a Foreigner?

Step 1: Check Your Permit

Confirm your permit is valid and matches the type needed for the grant.

Step 2: Prepare Your Documents

Get certified copies of your ID or permit, proof of income (if applicable), and proof of address.

Step 3: Go to SASSA

Visit your nearest SASSA office. You must apply in person for most grants (except SRD, which is online).

Step 4: Submit and Wait

SASSA will review your application and verify your details with Home Affairs. If approved, you’ll receive payments monthly.

Applying for the SRD R370 Grant as a Foreigner

If you’re a refugee, asylum seeker, or special permit holder, you may apply online for the Social Relief of Distress (SRD) grant.

How to Apply:

1. Go to https://srd.sassa.gov.za
2. Select the refugee/asylum option
3. Enter your permit number and cellphone number
4. Submit your details and wait for OTP
5. Follow prompts to complete the application

✔ Make sure your permit is valid and not expired.
✔ The phone number used must be linked to your permit or ID.

Important Reminders for Foreigners

• Your permit must be active at the time of application and during payment periods
• If your permit expires, payments will stop immediately
• You cannot receive a SASSA grant if you already receive other government financial aid

Why SASSA Is Strict With Eligibility?

SASSA grants are funded through South African taxes. The government limits access to citizens, permanent residents, and recognised refugees to ensure the funds go to legal residents in need.

This is why documentation checks are strict and regular.

What If You’re Rejected as a Foreigner?

If your application is declined:

• Check if your permit is still valid
• Make sure all your details match across systems
• If you feel your rejection was unfair, you can appeal using the SRD appeals portal at https://srd.dsd.gov.za/appeals

Final Thoughts

Foreigners can access some SASSA grants, but only under strict conditions. You must be a citizen, permanent resident, refugee, or permit holder with valid paperwork. If you don’t fall into these categories, you won’t qualify.

If you do qualify, be ready with your documents and apply as soon as possible. Always keep your details updated with Home Affairs and SASSA to avoid payment delays.