The simple answer to “Can I get a South African passport if I was not born in South Africa?” is YES but it comes requirements and conditions with which this article covers. Let’s get going:
Whether you can get a South African passport if you weren’t born there depends on a few factors:
Citizenship:
- Descent: If one of your parents was a South African citizen at the time of your birth and your birth is registered, you might be considered a South African citizen by descent.
- Naturalization: If you’ve lived in South Africa for a certain period and met specific requirements, you could potentially be naturalized as a citizen.
- Adoption: If you were adopted by a South African citizen and your birth is registered, you might be eligible for citizenship.
Other factors:
- Residency: You might need to be a permanent resident of South Africa to apply for a passport.
- Documents: You’ll need to provide various documents, like your birth certificate, parental information, and proof of residency.
Persons born outside South Africa can claim citizenship by descent if one of their parents was a South African citizen at the time of their registered birth. Individuals born outside South Africa and adopted by a South African citizen can also claim citizenship by descent if their birth was registered.
South Africa Citizenship by Descent: Requirements
Required Documents
- A completed application form (BI-24)
- An unabridged birth certificate
- Original and valid passports of the applicant and their parent(s)
- South African parent’s original birth certificate, identity document, or passport
- Marriage certificate of parents, if applicable
- Proof of payment of the application fee
Costs and Fees
- The application fee for South African citizenship by descent is currently ZAR 1,330 (subject to change)
- Additional fees may apply for services such as DNA testing or legal advice.
The above requirements may be subject to change. Hence, it is advised to check the official website of the Department of Home Affairs for the most up-to-date information.
Waiting Time
- The processing time for citizenship by descent applications can vary and may take several months to a year.