Home Affairs Minister Nkosazana Dlamini-Zuma was shocked by the news that an identity document (ID) applicant killed himself after being told he was a foreigner, her spokesperson said on Saturday.

"I have worked with her for many years, and it is the first time I have heard the minister cry," said Ronnie Mamoepa.

He said a 22-year-old man had been offered a job and was due to begin on Monday, on condition he produce an ID.

He went to a home affairs office to apply for one, and said Mamoepa: "They said you are a foreigner and tore up the papers".

He pleaded with the official, explaining he needed the document to start his job on Monday.

"That young man committed suicide last night," said Mamoepa.

Dlamini-Zuma would give further details of the tragedy, as well as how she intends investigating the matter, during her visit to Umzimkhulu in KwaZulu-Natal on Saturday morning.

"She has spoken to the family, and has sent a director general to the family."

She also plans to investigate the incident.

"She just sat there crying, saying that she has a 22-year-old daughter," said Mamoepa of the minister.