Passport Application for a minor child: Mother cannot find the father to provide the necessary consent at the Department of Home Affairs. The Application is therefore refused.

Passport Application for a minor child: It is not easy being a single parent, and at the same time, the primary caregiver of the child. This is even so where the other parent pays child support and regularly sees the child. This article deals with the situation where the father of the child is missing. He, therefore, does not pay any child support, nor has a relationship with the child. This causes a problem when it comes to issues of guardianship rights. For example, when the mother wants to enrol the child in a school or provide medical consent. The question would always arise – “where is the father?”, or “did the father give his consent?” When it comes to official matters, for example, the application for a passport, then things become more complicated. This is where the issue of parental consent for the application for a passport is looked at. Now let us first deal with the law.

Parental Responsibilities and Rights of Fathers

In short, if a father was married to the mother, he would automatically have full parental responsibilities and rights to the child born from them. This includes the rights of care, contact and guardianship. If he was not married to the mother of the child, he can acquire parental responsibilities and rights. In short, in order for the unmarried father to acquire parental responsibilities and rights, he has to form part of the child’s life. He may also attempt to do so and the mother hinders it from happening. In the latter situation, he would still acquire parental responsibilities and rights.

The Unmarried Father’s Rights

The unmarried father can acquire parental responsibilities and rights to his child in a number of ways. They include paying child support, visiting the child and so on. Therefore, not all fathers would have parental responsibilities and rights over their children. Some fathers just impregnated the mothers and went missing. Such a father cannot rock up, 12 years later and demand to take the child with him to the movies. I think you understand the point we are trying to make.

What is the legal effect of having parental responsibilities and rights over a child?

Should a father have parental responsibilities and rights over a child – he has certain defined rights. Those rights could either be absolute, or specific. An absolute right would be one of guardianship. An example would be an application for a passport or the removal of a child from the Republic. In the latter cases, the father’s consent is an absolute requirement which can only be taken away by a court of law. Then there are relative parental responsibilities and rights over a child. These rights depend on the circumstances of the case. An example would be that of visitation. A father who has parental responsibilities and rights of contact over a child cannot demand to see the child at any time. He may not even be able to demand to see the child half the time. His contact rights would be limited to what is in the child’s bests interests. And that would change from time to time. For example, should the father live 100km away from his children, contact could be every second weekend. But, should he live down the road, it could be every second day.

The Legal Problem for unmarried parents and their rights

The consent required in relation to the exercise of parental responsibilities and rights over certain children have challenges. How would anyone know whether or not an unmarried father has parental responsibilities and rights? For example, lets say the father was never involved in the child’s life – what proof does she have to show the authorities that the father does not have any parental responsibilities and rights? Would the Department of Home Affairs just accept the allegation made by the mother? I do not think so. And this could cause a problem in two ways. Let’s say the father has parental responsibilities and rights over a child. The mother however now wishes to relocate overseas. She tells the authorities at the Department of Home Affairs that she does not know where the father is, and he was never involved in the child’s life. If the Department of Home Affairs accepts her lie, the mother would be able to leave South Africa with the child, and without the father knowing. Let alone obtain his consent. On the other hand, let’s say that the father was really not involved in the child’s life since birth. He went missing after he found out the mother was pregnant. He never paid for any of the birthing costs, nor any of the child’s expenses since birth. Should the mother approach the Department of Home Affairs, would they allow her to obtain a passport without the father’s consent? We could be wrong, but we doubt they will.

What can a mother do if she does not have the consent from the father

As the law stands and with the current position of the Department of Home Affairs, the following needs to be done if the father refuses to give his consent, or cannot be found.

Application to the High Court

We advise that you consult with a legal advisor to advise you on the merits of your case. If there are merits, an application to the relevant court would be made. The Court would decide on the matter after hearing from both the parents. If it is decided that it would be best for the child to obtain a passport or relocate, the court would grant the appropriate order.

These are the documents that would form part of the Court file:

Notice of Motion

This document outlines the relief you are asking the court for. This would be the case where the details of the father is known. Two of the clauses could be as follows:

The Respondent’s consent is not required for the departure of the minor child, Little One, with identity number 0813040502086 (hereafter referred to as “the minor child”), from the Republic of South Africa, and to relocate to France, as provided for in section 18(5) of the Children’s Act 38 of 2005;
The Respondent’s consent is not required for the return of the minor child to the Republic of South Africa for visits;

Founding Affidavit

In this document, you outline the facts of the matter. You would deal with why you want consent.

Opposing Affidavit

If the father opposes the Application, he would file this affidavit. In this document he would outline reasons why the court should not give consent.

Replying Affidavit

You would then get an opportunity to reply to the father’s allegations made.

Advice to parents who wants to relocate or temporary leave South Africa with the minor child

If you need to relocate, with a child, and the other parent refuses to give consent, speak to a legal advisor, or to us. They would advise you on your case, and if need be, assist or direct you to the proper people for an Application to court for an order that the requirement of consent is dispensed with. Should you be successful in such an application, the Order would be shown to the Department of Home Affairs when applying for a passport and when leaving the Country. The Officials would comply with the Order. The Order of Court can also be shown to the officials overseas should they want to know where the consent of the father is. [caption id="attachment_7081" align="alignleft" width="217"] Advocate Cape Town Lawyer Attorney Legal High Court

Advocate Muhammad Abduroaf[/caption] In the same manner, should you want to leave South Africa to go overseas on holiday with the minor, approach us for advice should the other parent refuse to give consent. Your visit overseas could be to visit a family member, or just for a break. There should be no reason why you cannot take the minor child with you on holiday. [caption id="attachment_6387" align="alignleft" width="300"]

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Posted on 11 February 2025 by Telelaw

Passport Application for a minor child: Mother cannot find the father to provide the necessary consent at the Department of Home Affairs. The Application is therefore refused.

Parental Responsibilities and Rights of Fathers

The Unmarried Father’s Rights

What is the legal effect of having parental responsibilities and rights over a child?

Then there are relative parental responsibilities and rights over a child. These rights depend on the circumstances of the case. An example would be that of visitation. A father who has parental responsibilities and rights of contact over a child cannot demand to see the child at any time. He may not even be able to demand to see the child half the time. His contact rights would be limited to what is in the child’s bests interests. And that would change from time to time. For example, should the father live 100km away from his children, contact could be every second weekend. But, should he live down the road, it could be every second day.

The Legal Problem for unmarried parents and their rights

Let’s say the father has parental responsibilities and rights over a child. The mother however now wishes to relocate overseas. She tells the authorities at the Department of Home Affairs that she does not know where the father is, and he was never involved in the child’s life. If the Department of Home Affairs accepts her lie, the mother would be able to leave South Africa with the child, and without the father knowing. Let alone obtain his consent.

On the other hand, let’s say that the father was really not involved in the child’s life since birth. He went missing after he found out the mother was pregnant. He never paid for any of the birthing costs, nor any of the child’s expenses since birth. Should the mother approach the Department of Home Affairs, would they allow her to obtain a passport without the father’s consent? We could be wrong, but we doubt they will.

What can a mother do if she does not have the consent from the father

As the law stands and with the current position of the Department of Home Affairs, the following needs to be done if the father refuses to give his consent, or cannot be found.

Application to the High Court

These are the documents that would form part of the Court file:

Notice of Motion

This document outlines the relief you are asking the court for. This would be the case where the details of the father is known. Two of the clauses could be as follows:

The Respondent’s consent is not required for the departure of the minor child, Little One, with identity number 0813040502086 (hereafter referred to as “the minor child”), from the Republic of South Africa, and to relocate to France, as provided for in section 18(5) of the Children’s Act 38 of 2005;
The Respondent’s consent is not required for the return of the minor child to the Republic of South Africa for visits;

Founding Affidavit

In this document, you outline the facts of the matter. You would deal with why you want consent.

Opposing Affidavit

If the father opposes the Application, he would file this affidavit. In this document he would outline reasons why the court should not give consent.

Replying Affidavit

You would then get an opportunity to reply to the father’s allegations made.

Advice to parents who wants to relocate or temporary leave South Africa with the minor child

Advocate Cape Town Lawyer Attorney Legal High Court — Advocate Muhammad Abduroaf

In the same manner, should you want to leave South Africa to go overseas on holiday with the minor, approach us for advice should the other parent refuse to give consent. Your visit overseas could be to visit a family member, or just for a break. There should be no reason why you cannot take the minor child with you on holiday.

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International Family Law matters, applicable to South Africa
Divorces are not only limited to people living in the same country. Often, you will find that one spouse lives in South Africa and the other in a different country. They want to get divorced but do not know how to go about it. The question now is, which country and which court should divorce them? We regularly receive these types of queries from people living in the Middle East and the United Kingdom. The same problem arises in the case of parents living in different countries, but there are complications regarding contact and access to their minor children. Let’s say, one parent, lives in Cape Town and the other in Taiwan. How does the parent living in Taiwan enforce his contact rights to his child in South Africa? Does he or she approach the court in Taiwan? Or should he or she approach the Court in South Africa? And Lastly, there is an issue regarding child maintenance. What happens in the case where one parent lives in Cape Town and the other in New York? How does child maintenance work? Can the parent living in Cape Town with the children obtain a maintenance order against a parent in New York? This article will deal with the above three topics. Read on to learn more.

South Africans living abroad

South African expatriates are found all over the world. These include the following places:

The United Kingdom
United States of America
Canada
Chile
Taiwan
New Zealand
Japan
India
Brazil
China

Whatever the destination and/or location is, this article would be a useful read. Especially so if you find yourself in an international family law dispute.

We regularly receive enquiries and requests for legal advice and/or assistance from people who have a legal connection to South Africa, but do not live here. This may include an intended divorce, where one of the spouses reside in South Africa, or a child contact issue, where a parent would like to have contact with his or her child living here.

With the advances in technology, providing advice and assistance to clients abroad becomes very easy, and convenient. There is Skype, WhatsApp Video, FaceTime, to mention a few that can bridge the communication gap. But for now, let us deal with the legal issues involved and fly away with divorces.

I live in the United Kingdom, and want to divorce my spouse living in Cape Town

Many people believe that because they got married in South Africa, any court in South Africa can divorce them. Or because they lived in Cape Town, that the Western Cape High Court in Cape Town can divorce them, even though they live in London at present. That is not the case. You will see why not. The issue is that of the Jurisdictional authority of the relevant Court.

Jurisdiction of the Divorce Courts in South Africa

Section 2(1) of the Divorce Act, states the following when it comes to the Court’s Jurisdiction: “A court shall have jurisdiction in a divorce action if the parties are or either of the parties is- (a) domiciled in the area of jurisdiction of the court on the date on which the action is instituted; or (b) ordinarily resident in the area of jurisdiction of the court on the said date and have or has been ordinarily resident in the Republic for a period of not less than one year immediately prior to that date.”

So, as you can see, you need to have fulfilled one of those latter requirements. Therefore, if you and your spouse moved to England, to settle there, you may not get divorced in Cape Town if the marriage broke down. This is so even though your marriage took place in Cape Town and you own property there. If, however, the husband lives in England, and the wife in Cape Town and she is resident there, then the divorce is possible in Cape Town. Now let us move on to other family law related matters. We will tackle the issue of child contact next.

I live in the United States of America, and I am not allowed to have contact with my child living in Cape Town, South Africa

It often happens that parents would have a relationship and bring a child into this world. The relationship deteriorates, and one parent then moves and relocates to another country. In our experience, this is usually work related. Everything would seem to go well until the relocating parent has problems exercising contact with his or her child in South Africa. The challenge for the parent that relocated is the distance. He or she is not able to pop into the child’s home should they not answer the phone or visit the children at school should he or she not be able to get hold of them. Luckily, in this case, because the children are living in a specific province, for example, the Western Cape, the parent who relocated can have his or her attorney approach the Court locally to enforce his or her rights. So, for example, let’s say in this case, the father relocated, he can enlist the services of an attorney in Cape Town to make an Urgent Application to the Western Cape High Court for an Order for immediate telephonic, or video contact. An Application in the Children’s Court would be problematic as he would have to be present at the Court. This, of course, would not be an issue if he is willing to fly down for each of the Court hearings. The Court would then hear the matter and decide what is best for the children involved. If it would be best for them to have telephonic and/or video contact with the father on a regular basis; the court would then make the appropriate order. The party can also consider incorporating a clause which would entail the minor children traveling to him overseas.

How to claim child maintenance for my children if the other parent lives in New York

International child maintenance is always a complicated issue. This is so as the parent who is supposed to pay maintenance is out of the country. For this very reason, a parent living in South Africa will have to make use of international law.

The parent will approach the maintenance court in South Africa who in turn will approach the court in the country where the parent who is supposed to pay maintenance lives. We will not go into detail in this article on how exactly the process works. However, it basically entails a court making an order in Cape Town and then later having it registered in the foreign country. The applicable legislation is the Reciprocal Enforcement of Maintenance Orders Act 80 of 1963. The reverse also applies. Let’s say a parent lives in California and requires maintenance from a parent in South Africa. Then the same process would be applied. The parent would make an application for a maintenance order in California, and then have it registered in Cape Town. The Reciprocal Enforcement of Maintenance Orders Act 80 of 1963 would also apply to South Africa. If this is applicable to you, we advise that you approach your local maintenance court as soon as possible.

Posted on 11 February 2025 by Telelaw

Passport Applications for minor children: What you need to know – Department of Home Affairs – Questions and Answers
Should you require any advice on an application for a passport of a minor, where the co-parent refuses to consent or co-operate; feel free to set up a consultation with us. You may call 0211110090 or click here to do it online.
Leaving South Africa, and visiting another country is something many people do on a daily basis. The reason, therefore, could either be for a holiday, business, a death in the family, and so on. Or it might be to relocate to another country to start a new life, either alone, or with your spouse or children. Whatever the reason is, you require a passport when leaving South Africa. For an adult, all you need to do is visit your nearest Department of Home Affairs Offices, with proof of identity, and the prescribed fees, and take your picture, fingerprints, etc. However, if you are a minor child, under the age of 18, it is not that simple. You would need to go with both your parents, and they need to provide their consent.

Parental Consent and Co-operation for a Passport Application of a Minor child

According to Section 18 (3) of the Children’s Act, both parent’s consent is required for a minor’s application for a passport. This is why we refer to consent and co-operation. Co-operation in the sense of going with to the Department of Home Affairs and giving the consent. Now, this can cause a problem should a parent not agree to the application for a passport. Therefore, one of two things could happen in practice should there be children involved. Either the parent would have to go overseas without the children, or not at all. Before we deal with such a scenario in detail, a bit later, let’s look at the law in a bit more detail.

A child’s Constitutional right to a Passport

Our Constitution, Act 108 of 1996 is the supreme law of the Country. All laws and practices should be in line with it. Therefore, it’s always a good idea to find out what it says. Section 21(4) of our Constitution states the following: “Every citizen has the right to a passport.” This is a fundamental right. The question would then be asked, if that is a fundamental right, why would you still require both parents’ consent as stated in the Children’s Act? A possible reason for the writers of the Children’s Act to state that you require both parents’ consent is to ensure that there is no undue removal of children from the Country. Both parents should, therefore, consent to the passport, which is a key to leaving South Africa.

What if a parent refuses to consent and cooperate for the application of a passport for a minor child?

Notwithstanding what section 18(3) of the Children’s Act states, section 18(5) of the same Act says that a Court can order otherwise. What this means is that if a parent does not want to consent for the Application of a passport, then the Court can Order that his or her consent is not required or dispensed with. For this, you would have to file an Application at the High Court and ask for such an Order. The powers the High Court would exercise is that of the upper guardian of all minor children within its jurisdiction. So, there it is, if consent is refused, you can approach a lawyer, who would make the necessary Application to the appropriate Court. Such an application can be expensive, especially if it is opposed. Therefore, it is best that it is avoided, by resolving issues with the other parent beforehand. But if the other parent is unreasonable, approach the Court.

What does the Department of Home Affairs say?

The following are extracts from the Department of Home Affairs’ Website: “You must also note that:

All documents required for passport applications should be completed in black ink
Husband, wife and children must all complete separate application forms. Both parents and the children concerned must be present when applying for passports for children. See exceptions under Tourist Passports: persons under 16
Passports are issued in accordance with your names as they appear in the National Population Register (NPR) at the time of your application. Any changes to your names must be applied for, finalised and recorded in the NPR before you submit your passport application”

…

“Applying for Tourist Passports: Persons under 16 years

These passports are issued to SA citizens who are 15 years or younger. The passports are valid for 5 years and are not renewable. Once the validity period of a passport expires you will have to submit a new application for a passport. To apply for the passport you must submit the following documents:

A duly completed passport application Form DHA-73

- If the parents are married, the passport application form must be signed by both parents and the child and both parents should be in attendance when the application is submitted.
- Please note that the child and both parents should be in attendance when the application is submitted to the nearest Home Affairs office or SA Mission/Consulate. If a parent cannot be in attendance, a letter of consent and copy of ID will no longer be accepted.
- If divorced and sole parental rights and responsibilities in regard to guardianship have not been granted to one parent, the child and both parents should be in attendance when the application is submitted and both must sign the application form.
- If a parent is deceased, his or her death certificate and a copy thereof must accompany the application for the passport
- In the case of minors born out of wedlock, the biological father ’s consent will also be required if any of the circumstances as outlined in section 21 of the Children’s Act, 1995, are applicable, the child and both parents should be in attendance when the application is submitted.
- If the applicant is in the care of a guardian other than the parents, proof of the High Court’s appointment must accompany the application.
- If a parent cannot be located or refuses to consent, or a dispute concerning consent arises, the matter should be referred to the Children’s Court. The Court’s decision must be submitted with the application for the passport.

The child’s South African birth certificate and a copy thereof
Two colour passport photographs that comply with the Passport and ID Photograph Specifications (NOT needed at smartcard offices as ID images are captured digitally)
Payment of the prescribed passport fee”

In summary, on minor children application for a passport

Before moving onto question and answers on passport applications for minor children below. this article can be summarised as follows:

Every child has a right to a Passport;
Both parents must visit the Department of Home Affairs when applying for the minor child’s passport. The process is outlined above; and
If a parent refuses and does not want to co-operate for the passport application, then the High Court may be approached to dispense with that requirement.

Popular relocation countries for South Africans

If you wish to emigrate from South Africa, there are many places in this world to consider. Some would be more ideal than others. But it all depends on the reason for the relocation. Here is a list of the top countries South Africans and emigrating to:

United Kingdom (UK)
Australia
United States of America (USA)
New Zealand
Canada
Angola
Botswana
Chile
Zimbabwe
Germany
Netherlands
Swaziland
Israel
Portugal
Mozambique
Ireland
Malawi
Switzerland
Namibia
Greece

What follows are questions and answers regarding Applications for Passports for Adults and Children

If you still have questions after reading the article above, and the questions and answers below, feel free to leave a comment hereunder.

Can I get my child a passport without the father’s permission?

If the father is a guardian of the child, his consent is required. That is according to the Children’s Act.

Do you need both parents to get a passport for a child?

Yes. As the law currently stands, you need both parent’s consent.

Can a child get a passport with one parent?

No, you need both parents present when applying for a passport for a minor child.

What documents are needed to renew South African passports?

Visit the Department of Home Affairs Website. Here is the link.

Do both parents need to be present for a child to get a passport?

Yes, they do. Unless only one parent is a guardian.

What documents required for minor’s passport?

Visit the Department of Home Affairs Website. Here is the link.

Do both parents need to be present to get a passport for a child?

Yes, they do. That is the law.

Do you need both parents to get a passport for a 17-year-old?

As you are still a minor at the age of 17, you require both your parents to consent to your passport application. Bot parents should also be at the Department of Home Affairs when making the Application.

Can the noncustodial parent get a passport for the child?

Yes, if the parent is a guardian as well. If there is another parent too, both parents must give consent at the Department of Home Affairs.

How do you get full custody of your child?

You would have to approach the Court for such an Order. The Court would have to determine whether it is in the child’s best interests. We advise you speak to a lawyer.

Do you need both parents to get a passport for a 16-year-old?

As you are still a minor at the age of 16, you require both your parents to consent to your passport application. Both parents should also be at the Department of Home Affairs when making the Application.

What is the validity of a minor’s passport?

Visit the Department of Home Affairs Website. Here is the link.

Can I apply for a passport without a birth certificate?

Visit the Department of Home Affairs Website. Here is the link.

How do you apply for a passport online?

Visit the Department of Home Affairs Website. Here is the link.

Can a passport application be printed in black and white?

Visit the Department of Home Affairs Website. Here is the link.

Can you travel with a passport that expires in 2 months?

Visit the Department of Home Affairs Website. Here is the link.

Which documents are required for a passport after marriage?

Visit the Department of Home Affairs Website. Here is the link.

What kind of pen do you use to sign a passport?

Visit the Department of Home Affairs Website. Here is the link.

How fast can you get a passport?

Visit the Department of Home Affairs Website. Here is the link.

How old do you have to be to get a passport without parents?

You need to be 18 years old. If you are younger, you require both your parents’ consent.

Can a child leave the country without a parent?

Yes, you can, but you require their consent.

Can I get my child a passport without the father’s permission?

No, you cannot. Unless he is not a guardian.

Do you need both parents to get a passport for a child?

Yes, you do.

Do both parents need to be present for a child to get a passport?

Yes, both parents have to be present.

Do both parents have to sign for a passport for a child?

Yes, both parents have to be presented. This is the legal requirement.

Can a single parent get a passport for their child?

Only in the case if the parent is the sole guardian. If not both parents must apply and consent.

Do both parents need to be present to get a passport for a child?

Yes, they both do.

Can a divorced parent get a passport for a child?

Yes, the parent can. However, if the other parent is also a guardian, his or her consent is also required.

How much is a passport for a kid?

Visit the Department of Home Affairs Website. Here is the link.

Is it illegal to have two passports from different countries?

Dual Citizenship is not illegal.

Do dual citizens have two passports?

Yes, they do.

Can I get my child a passport without the father’s permission?

If the father is a co-guardian, then his consent is required.

Posted on 11 February 2025 by Telelaw

Top tips from a Senior Family Law Advocate on how to deal with your Child Custody matter in the Rustenburg Children’s Court
Family law legal matters can be very stressful. This is so whether you live in Rustenburg or any other city in South Africa. Especially so if you have no idea how the legal processes work. It is one thing to know that you are entitled to child support, but it is a totally different matter to know the law and procedure on how to claim child support. Luckily in child maintenance matters, the maintenance court is there to assist you in completing the application form. However, many times that is not enough. Especially so if the other parent has a lawyer and knows how to present the case for his or her client. This article, however, deals with some top tips in care and contact or custody matters in the Children’s Court in Rustenburg. It would explain the processes involved and advise on how to be best prepared for your matter. This advice is applicable whether you live in Rustenburg or any other city in South Africa.
What to do before visiting the Rustenburg Children’s Court
Before you approach the Children’s Court in Rustenburg, first try to resolve the issues with the other parent. Therefore, if you want more contact with your child and the other parent is refusing, try to resolve the matter first with that parent. If that does not work, try mediation. The mediator can be anyone, from a trusted mutual friend, priest, or other religious leaders, or a professional like an attorney, psychologist, or the office of the Family Advocate. Rustenburg has many professionals that can assist you in this regard. If resolving the matter by yourselves is not possible, or mediation fails, then we suggest you approach the Rustenburg Children’s Court for assistance. TIP: Focus on getting someone neutral to assist in mediating your matter. Organisations like FAMSA and FAMAC can be of assistance. Google them.
Approaching the Rustenburg Children’s Court
The Rustenburg Children’s Court should be approached if it is the closest Children’s Court to you. You need to verify with the Rustenburg Children’s Court that you fall under their area of jurisdiction. If not, they would direct you to which Children’s Court is applicable to you. Once you arrive at the Rustenburg Children’s Court, they will provide you with a form headed “Bringing Matter to Court in Terms of Section 53 Children’s Act, 2005 (Act no. 38 of 2005) Regulation Relating to Children’s Court and International Child Abduction, 2008 [Regulation 6]. This form is also called Form 2. In this form, you will provide all your particulars and that of the child or children and the other parent. The sections in the form are as follows:
PART A: PARTICULARS OF CHILD(REN)
PART B: PARTICULARS OF CHILD WHO IS AFFECTED BY OR INVOLVED IN THE MATTER/PERSON ACTING IN THE INTEREST OF THE CHILD/ON BEHALF OF THE CHILD WHO CANNOT ACT IN HIS/HER OWN NAME/ MEMBER OF A GROUP OF CLASS OF CHILDREN/*IN THE PUBLIC INTEREST (SECTION 53(2)
PART C: PARTICULARS OF PERSONS HAVING AN INTEREST IN THE MATTER
PART D: PARTICULARS OF MATTER
In part D, the following is stated which you need to provide in the form:
Nature of matter brought to Court: (Please give full details of the matter e.g., registration/amendment of parenting plans, removal of child to safe care, children in need of care and protection, placement in youth care centers, adoption etc.
Documents: Are there any documents relating to the matter? (If so please attach)
Once you have completed the form and attached the relevant documents to it, you must take it to a commissioner of Oaths to have it commissioned. It does not have to be in Rustenburg. TIP: Draft a separate affidavit explaining your case. Outline some background information and reasons why the Court should give you what you request. Attach it to Form 2.
Processing your Application at the Rustenburg Children’s Court
Once you complete the Form A and submit it to the Clerk of the Rustenburg Children’s Court, they will process it and allocate it a case number or reference number. The Clerk of the Court would then allocate a date to the matter and advise the parties accordingly when the court date is. Please note that some courts follow a different process for processing the application and informing the parties of the court date. Please enquire from the Court when making the application what process they follow. TIP: Obtain the contact details of the Court for you to contact them to obtain the Court date or other information. Ask for their contact number and email address.
Appearing in the Rustenburg Children’s Court
When notified of the Court date, both you and the other parent should attend. If you are making use of a lawyer (Advocate or Attorney), inform them timeously of the date. Depending on the Court, you may first see the Clerk or go directly to the Magistrate. The Children’s Court would do its best to try to resolve the matter. If the parents cannot come to an agreement, the Children’s Court may postpone the matter for either of the following:
Get a social worker involved in the matter;
Appoint a legal representative for the minor child;
Implement interim care and contact arrangements;
Having the parties attempt to agree on a parenting plan;
In serious matters, the Court may remove the minor child from both parents and place the child in foster care. The powers of the Children’s Court are extensive. It will, however, focus on what is in the child’s best interests. TIP: Be as vocal as possible. Do not expect the Court to be understanding of your case or be on your side. It is your duty to explain your case and provide the Court with all the relevant information they require for them to make a fair decision.
Finalising the matter in the Rustenburg Children’s Court
Once the Rustenburg Children’s Court has enough information to make a final decision, it will do so. Depending on the facts of the matter, that could either be making a Parenting Plan, an Order of the Court or a final care and contact Order. The Court may even make further interim orders, where the parties are to return to Court after a few months, or a year later. TIP: Do not agree to something just because the social worker, a lawyer, or the Court suggest it. You need to be happy with what is decided. The above Rustenburg Children’s Court Application tips should apply to the following provinces and cities:
Eastern Cape:
Alice, Butterworth, East London, Graaff-Reinet, Grahamstown, King William’s Town, Mthatha Port Elizabeth, Queenstown, Uitenhage, Zwelitsha
Free State:
Bethlehem. Bloemfontein, Jagersfontein, Kroonstad, Odendaalsrus, Parys, Phuthaditjhaba, Sasolburg, Virginia, Welkom
Gauteng:
Benoni, Boksburg, Brakpan, Carletonville, Germiston, Johannesburg, Krugersdorp, Pretoria, Randburg, Randfontein, Roodepoort, Soweto, Springs, Vanderbijlpark, Vereeniging
KwaZulu-Natal:
Durban, Empangeni, Ladysmith, Newcastle, Pietermaritzburg, Pinetown, Ulundi, Umlazi
Limpopo:
Giyani, Lebowakgomo, Musina, Phalaborwa, Polokwane, Seshego, Sibasa, Thabazimbi
Mpumalanga:
Emalahleni, Nelspruit, Secunda, North West, Klerksdorp, Mahikeng, Mmabatho, Potchefstroom, Rustenburg, Northern Cape, Kimberley, Kuruman, Port Nolloth
Western Cape:
Bellville, Rustenburg, Constantia, George, Hopefield, Oudtshoorn, Paarl, Simon’s Town, Stellenbosch, Swellendam, Worcester

Posted on 11 February 2025 by Telelaw

The best way to deal with your relocation of minor children case in South Africa

Relocation matters involving minor children are distinctly different from typical care and contact arrangements, necessitating a nuanced understanding of the legal implications and emotional consequences involved. One primary distinction is that relocation is treated as a one-time order rather than a situation subject to trial periods, which may be available in care and contact cases. Once a child relocates, the parent with custodial authority cedes most of the control and decision-making power regarding the child’s upbringing and daily life. This transition is particularly significant when the relocation involves moving to another country, as the parent remaining in the original location will subsequently have no physical contact with the child. Future contact will primarily depend on the logistics of visitation, with visits occurring either when the parent travels to the child’s new location or when the child visits the non-relocating parent.

Do you reseach and be preparied

To secure the most favourable outcome in a relocation dispute, it is essential for the relocating parent to construct a compelling case that clearly articulates how the relocation serves the best interests of the minor child involved. This requires comprehensive research and due diligence to substantiate claims about the prospective advantages of the move. For example, it is crucial to thoroughly investigate various educational institutions in the new location to ascertain whether suitable placements are available and to demonstrate a commitment to the child’s educational development. Additionally, the relocating parent must ensure that they have arranged appropriate housing in the new location, as stable accommodation is a vital aspect of providing a nurturing environment for the child. Furthermore, the parent should also consider employment opportunities and financial stability in the new location. Presenting a well-researched plan that includes job prospects and potential income sources can bolster the case by illustrating the ability to provide for the child’s needs in a new setting. Ultimately, thorough preparation and a deep understanding of both the legal context and the child’s needs are critical in relocation matters. The relocating parent should be prepared to address any questions or concerns that may arise throughout the process. If the other parent expresses opposition to the relocation, the informed responses and comprehensive information gathered can be leveraged to support the case before the court, thereby laying the groundwork for a compelling argument in favour of the relocation. This proactive approach not only enhances the chances of a successful relocation outcome but also underscores the relocating parent’s commitment to prioritizing the child’s well-being in their new environment. If you wish to schedule a consulation with use, please comple the form below:

DIY Divorce in Cape Town, Western Cape

Complete the free online divorce form below to assist you with your unopposed divorce. View the following related pages: Free DIY Online Divorce Guide and Form A divorce guide in PDF format A Sample Summons in Word format A Particulars of Claim in Word Format A notice of Set Down in Word Format

COMBINED SUMMONS

IN THE HIGH COURT OF SOUTH AFRICA (WESTERN CAPE DIVISION, CAPE TOWN) Case no.: JOHN WILLIAMS (PLAINTIFF) (Identity Number: 0000000000000) And JANE WILLIAMS (DEFENDANT) (Identity Number: 1111111111111) __________________________________ TO THE SHERIFF/HIS DEPUTY: INFORM JANE WILLIAMS an adult male/female, residing at 1 Apple Street, Apple Town, Western Cape Province (hereinafter referred to as the Defendant); that JOHN WILLIAMS an adult male/female, residing at 4 Green Street, Greenland, WESTERN CAPE, (hereinafter referred to as the Plaintiff), hereby institutes action against him/her in which action the Plaintiff claims the relief on the grounds set out in the particulars of claim annexed hereto; INFORM the Defendant further that if he / she disputes the claim and wishes to defend the action he/she shall:- (a) within 10 (TEN) days of the service upon him/her of this summons file with the Registrar of this Court at Keerom Street, Cape Town a notice of his/her intention to defend and serve a copy thereof on the Plaintiff’s Attorneys, which notice shall give an address referred to in rule 19(3) for the service upon the Defendant of all notices and pleadings in the action; (b) thereafter and within 20 (TWENTY) Court days after filing and serving the notice of intention to defend as aforesaid, file with the Registrar and serve upon the Plaintiff’s Attorneys a plea or exception with or without a claim in reconvention; INFORM the Defendant further that if he/she fails to file and serve notice as aforesaid judgment as claimed may be given against him/her without further notice to him/her or if, having filed and served such notice, he/she fails to plead, except, or to counterclaim, judgment may be given against him/her; INFORM the Defendant also that if he/she does not intend to defend the action, he/she may give written notice to that effect to the Plaintiff’s Attorneys and the Registrar and the action may then, at the written request of the Plaintiff’s Attorneys, be forthwith set down by the Registrar for hearing; And immediately thereafter serve on the Defendant a copy of this Summons and return the same to the Registrar with whatever you have done thereupon. DATED AT CAPE TOWN THIS DAY OF 2017. ……………………………………………………………… REGISTRAR OF THE HIGH COURT ______________________ ______________________ Per: JOHN WILLIAMS (Plaintiff in Person) 4 Green Street, Greenland, WESTERN CAPE ______________________o0o____________________

Fee Online Divorce Form and Guide

If you want to attend to your own uncontested divorce, we can to help you at no charge. Fill in the form below, and then our system will send you an email with the details you provided, which you should include in the divorce documents. [ninja_form id=35]

Have a family Law appointment with us

We have an online appointments system which enables you to save valuable time and cut straight to the chase. There is therefore no need for you to visit our offices (unless it is best for you to do so, or is your most preferred option). You may set up telephonic or video consultations should you wish to do so. You can therefore stay in the office or on the couch in the comfort of your own home when dealing with us. We are therefore physical, online, set-up and ready to meet with you. Make your appointment online for a consultation today. If you find any of our articles, free resources and posts interesting, or possibly useful to others, please like