A recent look at information published by the South African Social Security Agency (SASSA) has highlighted an issue that continues to generate debate in South Africa: who is eligible to receive the Social Relief of Distress (SRD) payment?

SASSA's official information confirms that the SRD programme is not restricted exclusively to South African citizens. Under the applicable criteria, recognised refugees, certain special-permit holders and asylum seekers with valid documentation can also qualify, provided they meet all the other requirements.

This has sometimes been described on social media as SASSA "giving grants to illegal immigrants". However, that description is not technically accurate. An asylum seeker with a valid Section 22 permit or visa is not automatically classified as an illegal immigrant. The distinction is important.

What does SASSA's website say?

The SASSA SRD application information specifically identifies the following categories as potentially eligible:

• South African citizens;

• Permanent residents;

• Recognised refugees;

• Holders of certain special permits, including the Special Angolan Dispensation, Lesotho Exemption Permit Dispensation and Zimbabwe Exemption Permit Dispensation; and

• Asylum seekers whose Section 22 permit or visa is valid.

The screenshot accompanying this article also shows SASSA describing the SRD Grant as being available to "South African Citizens, Refugees, Asylum Seekers and Special Permit Holders" between the ages of 18 and 60 who meet the relevant requirements