Two Child-Friendly Legal Guides by the Centre for Child Law on Child Citizenship and Visas

The Centre for Child Law has released two informative guides aimed at clarifying the complex issues surrounding child citizenship and visa options in South Africa. These manuals are designed for parents, caregivers, social workers, and legal representatives and aim to simplify the legal and bureaucratic processes concerning children’s citizenship and identity.

The first document offers guidance and information to children of Zimbabwean Exemption Permit (ZEP) holders residing in South Africa. It focuses on essential aspects of documentation and citizenship, such as the types of birth certificates these children might need based on their birth location. This resource also explores the multiple ways of obtaining South African citizenship and provides alternative documentation options for those who are unable to secure citizenship.

The second guide serves as a comprehensive resource for navigating the complexities of obtaining birth certificates, securing citizenship, and understanding immigration options for children in South Africa. This manual delves into the eligibility criteria for citizenship and outlines the different immigration visas available to children, including those for refugees and stateless individuals.

Child Identity Protection (CHIP) welcomes these innovative child-friendly tools as they provide essential guidance for ensuring that every child’s right to identity and citizenship are protected, stressing the necessity of proper documentation for accessing vital services and rights.

Source: Centre for Child Law, https://centreforchildlaw.co.za.