Get Bi-529determinationcitizenship.pdf

Persons can apply for the confirmation of their South African status - this may include Citizenship or Permanent Residency. These applications are referred to the South African Department of Home Affairs where the information will be checked against the National Population Register.

Can you have dual citizenship in South Africa? Yes, you can be South African and simultaneously hold citizenships in other countries. Please note that you must complete SA citizenship retention before applying for a different nationality. You will lose your SA ID otherwise.

If you live abroad and want to acquire citizenship there, you may have to renounce your citizenship in South Africa, even though South Africa allows dual or multiple citizenship. It is essential to keep in mind that the renunciation of citizenship is a very bold move.

From 1949, when South African citizenship was established, there have been limitations on dual nationality. Between 6 October 1995 and 13 June 2023, adult South Africans who voluntarily acquired citizenship of another country had to seek permission from the government to retain their South African citizenship.

A Determination of Citizenship Status for South Africa is ultimately the process of verifying whether an individual's South African citizenship has been revoked or not. Should your citizenship status be revoked, you may apply, in certain circumstances, for the resumption thereof.

A fully completed application form BI-246 - Renunciation of South African Citizenship (only obtainable at the Consular Section), signed and dated by the applicant.

Reasons to keep your South African citizenship: Right to vote: you are only eligible to vote in South African elections if you are a citizen. Holding onto your citizenship ensures that you can still participate in the democratic processes of your home country.