Relocation minor child South Africa Advocate Abduroaf Thailand Phuket

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Relocation minor child South Africa Advocate Abduroaf Thailand Phuket

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Parent Refusing Relocation, and Passport Application for Minor Child

[caption id="attachment_7084" align="alignleft" width="229"]Advocate Muhammad Abduroaf - Advocate of the High Court of South Africa Advocate Muhammad Abduroaf – Advocate of the High Court of South Africa[/caption] Often times, a parent would want to travel overseas, relocate or emigrate, and take the child with. However, the practical aspects thereof are not that easy. For starters, your child requires a passport. And what does the law say about passports of a minor child? As you would see later, both parents holding parental responsibilities and rights of guardianship should consent to a minor child obtaining a passport. That is a requirement in Law. But let’s say your child already has a passport. Can you still take your minor child out of the country or relocate? Yes, you can, as long as you have the consent of the other parent. This article does not only apply to parents of minor children who are not married to each other or separated. It applies to all parents of children holding parental responsibilities and rights over them, married, separated, or divorced. Before we move on, let us look at the most popular countries South African’s relocate to.

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

If you intend to relocate to a country or region not mentioned above, read on, this article still applies to you.

The parent refuses to consent to emigration

Parents of minor children differ on many things. Sometimes it’s minor issues. For instance, which clothes the child should wear. However, some disagreements are serious and exhausting.  For instance, what school should the minor child attend, or extra-mural activities to partake in? What school a child attend can affect the contact rights of parents when they live in separate homes. Now turning to this article. What if one parent wants to go away on holiday or relocate with the child, and the other parent refuses to give consent. One obvious reason to object to a relocation would be that the parent that remains in South Africa may not see the child for some time. This becomes a problem if the reason for the relocation is work-related, or for a better life. Does this now mean a parent must not better his or her situation in life in consideration of the other parent? And what if the other parent does not pay child maintenance? Must you still give up the job offer overseas? Worst yet, if the reason for the relocation is due to the parent having custody of the child remarried, and his or her spouse wants to relocate due to work reasons. Now let’s unpack the law.

The Right to a Passport

The South African Constitution, Act 108 of 1996 affords everyone certain basic human rights. These rights are entrenched in its Chapter 2, of the Bill of Rights. Section 21 of the Bill of Rights deals with freedom of movement and residence. It states the following: 21 (1) Everyone has the right to freedom of movement. (2) Everyone has the right to leave the Republic. (3) Every citizen has the right to enter, to remain in and to reside anywhere in, the Republic. (4) Every citizen has the right to a passport. Now, seeing that every child has a right to freedom of movement, and a passport, what does this mean to the parent who wants to take a child out of the Country for relocation or holiday?

The law on Consent for Passports for Minor children

Section 18 of the Children’s Act 38 of 2005 deals with Parental responsibilities and rights in relation to minor children.  According to section18 (3) read with section 18(5) of the Act, a co-guardian of a child must consent to the child’s departure or removal from the Republic as well as to the child’s application for a passport.  The only exception would be if a court decides otherwise. Therefore, even if the child lives with the father and he cares for her, if the mother has guardianship over the child, her consent is required.

What can be done if consent is refused for emigration?

Now that we know that everyone has the right to obtain a passport, and leave the Republic, what does this mean to the parent who now wants to relocate with the minor child, but the other parent does not want to give consent? An application to the competent court has to be made if this happens. And in this case, it would be the High Court where the child resides. The Court would have to determine what is in the minor child’s best interest. The High Court would listen to why the parent wants to leave, and also why the other parent does not want the child to accompany that parent. Once all the information is before the Court, the court would make a decision. The decision would be based solely on the minor child’s best interests. The Court may also consider reports and recommendations from other experts. For example, the Office of the Family Advocate, a Social Worker or Psychologist. Obviously, their experts need to consult with both parents and the child and have all the facts before them before they can provide recommendations to the Court. They may decide to consult with the child’s school teachers, family member etc. A good report would deal with the actual circumstances overseas. For example, verifying the job, the school the child will be going to, and so on.

What are the factors the court would look at in relation to emigration?

If one parent leaves the country with the child, it would mean no physical contact for the other parent. This would be the major objection. On the other hand, a parent could object due to the country visiting being dangerous. In the case of relocation, an objection could be that the child’s education would be compromised. One other obvious reason would be that the child would not see the remaining parent and his or her family in South Africa. Counter-arguments could be the use of Skype, and holiday visits etc.

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. 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"]Business Legal Advice - Cape Town Contact us today[/caption]

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Frequently asked questions on Divorce

 [caption id="attachment_7079" align="alignleft" width="259"]Advocate Muhammad Abduroaf - Advocate High Court Cape Town Advocate Muhammad Abduroaf – Advocate High Court of South Africa[/caption] We proud ourselves on our knowledge on family law, and related matters relevant to South Africa. This includes issues and questions surrounding divorces, custody and child maintenance. Feel free to browse through the questions and answers below. Should you not find the answer to a divorce question you are looking for, scroll down to the bottom of this page and post your divorce-related question. Or you may click here to take you to the bottom of this post where the questions start. Want to know more about Rule 43 Applications in the High Court and Rule 58 Applications in the Magistrates’ Court? Click here.

How does it work to get a divorce/divorce process?

Only a court of law can divorce you. Therefore, a spouse should take the other spouse to court. You or your lawyer would have to approach the Divorce Court of the Family Court.

What is the procedure or process a for divorce?

One party needs to sue the other party for a divorce. This can be done in the High Court of the Family Courts. Once all the paperwork is done, the matter is set down for hearing or trial where a judge or magistrate would divorce you.

How long does it take for a divorce to be finalized?

If a divorce is undefended, it can take about 6 weeks. However, if the parties wish to litigate, it can take many months, up to 2 (two) years.

How long will it take for a divorce to be final?

If the parties agree and co-operate, it can take less than two months. If not, up to 2 (two) months.

How long does it take for someone to be served with divorce papers?

  If the person’s home and work address are known and the person is usually there, it can take a day or two. This depends on when the Sheriff is available to serve the summons. However, if the person is not always at work or at home to be served, it can take some time.

How long does it take for a divorce to be finalized?

If the parties agree and co-operate, it can take less than two months. If not, up to 2 (two) months.

How long does it take to get a divorce decree paper?

One the divorce is finalised, it should take about a week for the divorce decree or order to be typed out and available for collection.

How is a divorce finalized?

A divorce is finalised by a magistrate or judge granting a decree or order of divorce.

How long does it take to get an amicable divorce?

If the parties are on the same page and want to keep things friendly, it can take less than two months.

Why does it take so long to get a divorce?

If the parties agree and co-operate, it can take less than two months. If not, up to 2 (two) months. The problem is that when the matter becomes defended. it can take many months to finalise.

How long does it take to get a divorce by mutual consent in Cape Town?

[video width="1920" height="1080" mp4="https://www.ourlawyer.co.za/wp-content/uploads/Child-Custody-Visitation-and-Contact.mp4"][/video] If the parties agree and co-operate, it can take less than two months. If not, up to 2 (two) months.

Is adultery against the law in South Africa?

No, it is not a crime. However, it can be ground for a divorce.

What does in community of property means?

In community of property means that there is just one estate. At divorce, the estate has to be divided.

What can be contested in a divorce?

Anything the other spouse asks for can be contested. This includes maintenance, custody and the divorce itself.

How long does it take to get a divorce in South Africa?

If the parties agree and co-operate, it can take less than two months. If not, up to 2 (two) months.

What is the meaning of uncontested divorce?

An uncontested divorce is a term used to describe a divorce where both spouses agree to the divorce and the terms thereof. They then both co-operate if the finalisation of the divorce.

What is the divorce?

A divorce is the dissolution of the marriage. In other words, you are no longer married after the divorce.

When do you get served divorce papers?

Once a spouse instituted divorce proceedings, you should then be served with divorce papers by the sheriff of the court.

How long does it take to file for a divorce?

If the parties agree and co-operate, it can take less than two months. If not, up to 2 (two) months.

How long does it take to get a divorce in Cape Town if both parties agree?

If the parties agree and co-operate, it can take less than two months. If not, up to 2 (two) months. What is the final decree of divorce? It is an order, where the Court dissolves your marriage.

How much does it cost to get a divorce?

The court does not charge for a divorce. However, your lawyer would charge a fee, as well as the sheriff of the court who serves the divorce documents.

How long does it take to get a divorce in Cape Town?

If the parties agree and co-operate, it can take less than two months. If not, up to 2 (two) months.

How do I go about filing for divorce?

You should issue a summons at the Divorce Court.

Is a civil marriage in community of property?

Yes, unless you entered into an ante-nuptial contract beforehand stating otherwise.

What happens if your spouse refuses to sign divorce papers?

If your spouse refused to sign divorce papers, the divorce proceeds on a defended bases.

What happens when you file for a divorce?

The legal process follows. Ultimately, you want to have the matter heard before a magistrate or judge.

What is the meaning of notice of bar?

A notice of bar is a notice given to the Defendant, who filed a notice of intention to defend, but did nothing afterward. Therefore, you a notice of bar is issued, the Plaintiff may go ahead with finalising the case. [caption id="attachment_8258" align="alignleft" width="476"] Child Custody Visitation and Contact[/caption]

What is the meaning of a customary marriage?

A customary marriage is a marriage based on custom. An example is that of Xhosa or Zulu marriages.

How long does it take to get a divorce in South Africa?

If the parties agree and co-operate, it can take less than two months. If not, up to 2 (two) months. Therefore, it is in their best interest to try to resolve matters as soon as possible.

How does it work to get a divorce?

One party needs to summons the other party to Court. Therefore, a divorce cannot take place without a court process.

What is the procedure for divorce?

One party needs to summons the other party to Court.

How long does it take to get a divorce if both parties agree?

The quickest is for four weeks.

How much does it cost to file for a divorce in South Africa?

If you attend to your divorce, there are no costs, other than sheriff fees.

How do you file for divorce in South Africa?

A divorce has to start with a court process called a Summons. This document is issued at the divorce court and served on the spouse.

What is an uncontested divorce in South Africa?

An uncontested divorce in South Africa is where both parties agree on the terms of the divorce. In other words, there won’t be any opposition to the divorce. Only co-operation.

How long does it take to get a divorce in Cape Town, South Africa?

If all goes well and the divorce is uncontested, it would take approximately two (2) months to finalise.

How long does it take to get a fast divorce in Cape Town, South Africa?

Approximately two (2) months.

How long does it take to get a divorce in South Africa?

Each court is different. However approximately two (2) months.

When a divorce is final?

A divorce is final when you obtain a decree of divorce from the Judge or Magistrate. Therefore, a court process needs to take place.

How can I get a divorce without a lawyer?

You do not need a lawyer to attend to your divorce. You can do it on your own. The best option would be is to approach the Family Court in your area for assistance.

How long does it take to get a divorce in Cape Town, South Africa?

If the divorce is undefended, it can take about six (6) weeks.

How long does it take for someone to be served with divorce papers?

It can take a day or a few weeks. It all depends on when the sheriff is available to serve the divorce papers, as well as the ability to serve. In other words, sometimes the Sheriff takes a while to locate the party who must be served.

How long does it take for a divorce to be finalized?

It can take up to 6 weeks. Therefore, if you want to finalise a divorce quickly, agree as soon as possible.

How can I get a quick divorce in South Africa?

A divorce is very quick if you and your spouse agree on the terms of the divorce. You may then enter into a consent paper and have that made an order of the court. If you follow that route, with a divorce lawyer, you can be divorced within a few weeks. Purchase a Consultation with us from our Online Shop, by clicking here.

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