What is citizenship by registration in South Africa?

This answer to the question “What is citizenship by registration in South Africa?” is that Citizenship by registration in South Africa is a process through which a foreign national can apply for and acquire South African citizenship. This process is different from naturalization, which is another way to become a South African citizen.

To be eligible for citizenship by registration in South Africa, you must meet the following requirements:

  • Be at least 18 years old
  • Have been a permanent resident of South Africa for at least five years
  • Be of good moral character
  • Be able to speak and write basic English
  • Have a basic understanding of South African society and culture
  • Have no criminal record
  • Be willing to renounce your previous citizenship (if applicable)

Checklist of Documents to be Submitted:

  • Applicant must be a permanent residence holder.
  • Ordinarily resident in South Africa and has been resident for one year after immediately preceding the date of application. In addition to this, he or she has been resident in South Africa for a further period of not less than four years during the eight years after the date of application. In the case of a married man or woman, the applicant must have resided in South Africa for a period of not less than two years immediately preceding the date of his or her application and after the date of his or her marriage to such citizen.
  • The person must be of a good character.

Exemptions issued in terms of the South African Citizenship Act (No. 88) of 1995


Section 6(2) Exemption: 

This is an exemption issued to a South African citizen intending to retain his or her citizenship. The exemption takes four (4) to six (6) weeks to be issued and has to be applied for before a foreign citizenship is taken. Applicants are advised to ensure that they have the exemption certificate in hand, as a proof of the approval of their application before taking up foreign citizenship.

Checklist of Documents to be Submitted:

  • Completed BI-529E.
  • Completed BI-1664.
  • Valid passport.
  • Original or notarized copy of applicant’s proof of South African citizenship such as Birth certificate or ID book.
  • Notarized letter confirming that the foreign citizenship has not been taken up and proof of current status in foreign country of which citizenship will be acquired.
  • Prescribed fee of $25.00.

Section 26(4) Exemption:

This is a kind of exemption given to South Africans who took up a foreign citizenship before October 06, 1995. A person who takes up foreign citizenship without retaining his or her South African citizenship automatically loses his or her South African citizenship.

Checklist of Documents to be Submitted:

  • Completed BI-529E form.
  • Completed BI-1666 form.
  • Proof of the foreign citizenship acquired.
  • Valid passport.
  • Original or notarized copy of proof of South African citizenship.
  • Prescribed fee $25.00

Application Process

The application process for citizenship by registration in South Africa is as follows:

  1. Complete an application form and supporting documentation.
  2. Pay the application fee.
  3. Attend an interview with a Home Affairs official.
  4. If your application is successful, you will receive a certificate of citizenship.

Documents Required

The following documents are required to apply for citizenship by registration in South Africa:

  • Valid passport (or other travel document)
  • Proof of permanent residence status (such as a permanent residence permit)
  • Birth certificate
  • Marriage certificate (if applicable)
  • Police clearance certificate
  • Proof of income (such as bank statements)
  • Proof of accommodation (such as a lease agreement)
  • Proof of identity (such as a driver’s license)

Processing Time

The processing time for citizenship by registration in South Africa is typically 12 to 18 months. However, the processing time may vary depending on the number of applications received and the complexity of your application.

Fees

The application fee for citizenship by registration in South Africa is R1 600. In addition to the application fee, you may also be required to pay for other services, such as translations and notarizations.

Appeals

If your application for citizenship by registration is denied, you have the right to appeal the decision. The appeal process is as follows:

  1. Submit a written appeal to the Department of Home Affairs.
  2. A panel of Home Affairs officials will review your appeal and make a decision.
  3. If your appeal is denied, you can apply for judicial review in the High Court.

Citizenship by registration is a valuable way for foreign nationals to acquire South African citizenship. If you are interested in applying for citizenship by registration, it is important to carefully review the eligibility requirements and application process.