More than 500 fraudulent marriages were reversed since the start of the year. Image: Pixabay.
Home Affairs said most fraudulent marriages involve migrants who marry South Africans for ‘convenience purposes.’
More than 500 fraudulent marriages were reversed since the start of the year. Image: Pixabay.
The Minister of Home Affairs, Aaron Motsoaledi, revealed that more than 500 fraudulent marriages have been reversed since 1 January 2022 in a reply to a parliamentary question last week.
IFP MP Khethamabala Petros Sithole asked the Home Affairs Minister about the number of fraudulent marriages his department has undone. The question was answered on 30 September.
Sithole also wanted to know what the department is doing to put an end to fraudulent marriage certifications.
Motsoaledi said 553 fraudulent marriages have been finalised since 1 January 2022. He added that a number of fraudulent marriages are reported every year and his department has implemented a number of measures to put a stop to it.
The Minister said, “fraudulent marriages are prevalent mainly with foreign nationals marrying South Africans for convenience purposes.”
Nevertheless, all couples – regardless of nationality – are forewarned that marriage is a legally binding contract and they should be fully aware of the consequences, benefits and disadvantages.
The Department has introduced a new marriage register form (DHA-30), which requires a photograph and thumbprint for verification purposes.
Couples must also visit the nearest Home Affairs front office to verify their marital status and undergo brief interviews before their marriage is registered.
According to the department, on the day of the marriage the couple must present the following:
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