Table Of Contents
1. What It Means to Be a South African Citizen
2. Benefits of South African Citizenship
3. South African Citizenship by Descent
4. Who Qualifies for South Africa Citizenship by Descent
5. South Africa Citizenship by Descent: Requirements
6. How to Apply for Citizenship Through Descent
7. Getting a South African Passport
8. Other Paths to Citizenship in South Africa
9. Dual Citizenship
10. South Africa Citizenship by Descent: The Wrap-Up
11. FAQs
South Africa is a land of vibrant cultures, diverse landscapes, and a rich history that spans centuries. With its unique blend of indigenous, colonial, and modern influences, the country has become a popular destination for people from all over the world. However, for those who can trace their roots to South Africa, the idea of becoming a citizen of the Rainbow Nation is more than just a tourist attraction or an exotic adventure.
In fact, South Africa’s citizenship laws allow those who have a connection to the country through descent to claim citizenship by descent, meaning that if you have a South African parent or grandparent, you may be eligible to obtain South African citizenship and all the benefits that come with it.
While the process of claiming citizenship by descent may seem straightforward, there are many nuances and intricacies that applicants need to be aware of. From navigating complex paperwork and documentation requirements to understanding the legal and cultural implications of becoming a South African citizen, there is much to consider before embarking on this journey.
This article delves into the concept of South African citizenship by descent, exploring the eligibility requirements and the application process. Whether you are a South African expat looking to reconnect with your roots or a foreign national interested in becoming a citizen of one of the most dynamic and diverse nations on the planet, this guide will provide you with the information you need to make informed decisions about your future.
What It Means to Be a South African Citizen
Being a South African citizen means belonging to a country that is a melting pot of cultures, traditions, and languages. It means embracing diversity, from iconic wildlife and natural wonders to bustling cities and townships.
It means being part of a resilient and progressive nation that has overcome enormous challenges to become a beacon of hope and inspiration for the world. South African citizens enjoy several benefits, including access to quality healthcare, education, and job opportunities, as well as the right to vote and participate in the democratic process.
Benefits of South African Citizenship
The following are a few of the many benefits to becoming a citizen of South Africa:
• Access to quality healthcare, education, and job opportunities
• Right to vote and participate in the democratic process
• Opportunities to explore iconic wildlife and natural wonders
• Embrace diversity, traditions, and languages in a melting pot country
• Be part of a resilient and progressive nation that has overcome enormous challenges
• A beacon of hope and inspiration for the world
• Belong to a vibrant and dynamic community that celebrates both its past and its future.
South African Citizenship by Descent
South African citizenship by descent is the process of obtaining South African citizenship through a parent or grandparent who is/was a South African citizen.
Obtaining citizenship by descent is considered the most straightforward pathway to South African citizenship after citizenship by birth. Applicants must provide extensive documentation to prove their lineage and eligibility, and the process may take several months or even years to complete.
For those who can demonstrate their connection to South Africa through descent, citizenship by descent offers a unique opportunity to claim their heritage and become part of a rich and diverse culture that has captivated people from around the globe.
Who Qualifies for South Africa Citizenship by Descent
• 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.
• Anyone born in Namibia after March 21, 1990, whose mother or father was a South African citizen at the time of their birth, can also claim citizenship by descent.
• Adopted children whose responsible parent received a certificate of resumption of citizenship and entered South Africa for permanent residency while they were minors and whose birth was registered within a year after the certificate of resumption was issued can also claim citizenship by descent.
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.
How to Apply for Citizenship Through Descent
#1 Collect the required documents, such as the unabridged birth certificate and passports of the applicant and their parent(s).
#2 Complete the citizenship by descent application form and attach all necessary documents.
#3 Pay the application fee and any additional fees that may apply.
#4 Submit the application form and documents to the nearest South African embassy or consulate, or the Department of Home Affairs in South Africa.
#5 Wait for the processing of the application, which may take several months or longer.
#6 If approved, attend a citizenship ceremony to take an oath of allegiance to South Africa and receive a citizenship certificate.
#7 Apply for a South African passport.
Getting a South African Passport
Other Paths to Citizenship in South Africa
South African Citizenship by Birth
Obtaining South African citizenship by birth is the most straightforward way to acquire citizenship in South Africa.
Any person born in South Africa, regardless of the nationality of their parents, is automatically a South African citizen by birth. Furthermore, a child born outside of South Africa to a South African parent may also be eligible for citizenship by birth, provided the birth was registered with the South African authorities.
Once citizenship by birth is confirmed, a person can apply for a South

African passport and enjoy all the benefits of being a South African citizen, including the right to live and work in the country, access to social services, and the ability to participate in elections and politics.
South African Citizenship by Naturalization
Obtaining South African citizenship by naturalization is a process by which a person who is not a citizen of South Africa can apply to become one. To be eligible for naturalization, a person must have been a permanent resident of South Africa for a specified period, typically five years or longer. They must also meet certain requirements, such as being of good character, being able to speak one of the official languages, and passing a citizenship test.
If these requirements are met, the applicant can submit their naturalization application to the Department of Home Affairs for processing. The application process can take several months or even years to complete, depending on the complexity of the case.
Once approved, the applicant will be invited to attend a citizenship ceremony and take an oath of allegiance to South Africa. After the ceremony, the applicant will receive a certificate of naturalization and can apply for a South African passport. Obtaining South African citizenship by naturalization provides numerous benefits, including the right to live and work in South Africa without restriction, access to social services and healthcare, and the ability to participate in elections and politics.
South African Citizenship by Marriage
Marrying a South African citizen grants you the right to reside in the country, but it does not automatically confer citizenship. Before applying for citizenship, you must first hold a residence permit or visa for a specific duration, which is usually two years. There are special permits and visas available for spouses of South African citizens to live in the country with their partner.
To apply for South African citizenship through marriage, you must have been a permanent resident for at least two years, and you must have been residing in South Africa during that time. It is also crucial to have a good character, sufficient knowledge of the official languages, and the intention to continue living in the country. The application process may take several months and involves providing several documents, undergoing background checks, and attending a citizenship ceremony.
Once approved, you will receive a certificate of naturalization, which enables you to apply for a South African passport. It is worth noting that obtaining citizenship by marriage does not guarantee the right to live and work in other countries, and you may need to acquire additional visas and permits to travel or work abroad.
Dual Citizenship
South Africa recognizes dual citizenship, meaning you can hold citizenship in another country while also being a South African citizen. However, it is important to note that not all countries permit dual citizenship, so it is essential to check the regulations of your other country of citizenship.
Having dual citizenship can provide several benefits, such as access to both countries’ benefits and services, the ability to vote in both countries’ elections, and the right to work and reside in both countries. However, it is crucial to understand the responsibilities and obligations that come with dual citizenship, such as paying taxes in both countries and abiding by both countries’ laws.
South Africa Citizenship by Descent: The Wrap-Up
In conclusion, obtaining South African citizenship by descent can be a straightforward and advantageous pathway to citizenship for those who qualify. With its numerous benefits, including visa-free travel to many countries, the right to vote, and access to a range of economic opportunities, being a South African citizen is undoubtedly a valuable status to hold.
It is essential to remember that citizenship is more than just a legal status; it is an important part of one’s identity and connection to a particular country and its people.
FAQs
Can I become a South African citizen by descent if only one of my parents is a South African citizen?
Yes, if you were born outside of South Africa and at least one of your parents was a South African citizen at the time of your birth, you are eligible to apply for South African citizenship by descent.
How long does it take to get South African citizenship by descent?
The processing time for South African citizenship by descent applications can vary, but it usually takes several months. It’s important to ensure that all required documents are submitted and that you meet all the eligibility criteria to avoid any delays.
What documents are needed to apply for South African citizenship by descent?
To apply for South African citizenship by descent, you will need to provide proof of your South African parent’s citizenship, your birth certificate, and other relevant documents. You may also need to provide additional documentation to support your application.
Can I have dual citizenship as a South African citizen by descent?
Yes, South Africa allows dual citizenship, so you can hold citizenship from both South Africa and another country if you meet the eligibility requirements for both.
If I am a South African citizen by descent, can I pass on my South African nationality to my children?
Yes, if you are a South African national, you can pass on your citizenship to your children, even if they were born outside of South Africa. However, certain conditions may apply, such as registration of the child’s birth and the South African parent’s permanent residence status.
Can I apply for permanent residence if I am a South African national by descent?
If you are a South African national by descent, you are already considered a permanent resident of South Africa, and therefore, you do not need to apply for permanent residence.
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