Stateless â€` Born in SA - 18-Year-Old or Older Child of an Asylum Seeker or Refugee for Citizenship in South Africa

Source: SA Migration, 02/08/2025

Children born in South Africa to parents who are asylum seekers or refugees qualify for South African citizenship upon reaching 18 years of age, under the South African Citizenship Act. Below is the detailed procedure:Eligibility CriteriaTo qualify, the applicant must:1.Birthplace and Residency:oBe born in South Africa and have resided in the country from birth until the age of 18.2.Legal Documentation:oBe included in the parents` asylum seeker or refugee file and have maintained valid status throughout their residency..3.Valid Birth Certificate :oHave a birth certificate issued under the Births and Deaths Registration Act (BDRA) 51 of 1992.Application Process1.Compile Supporting DocumentsoSouth African Birth Certificate:oIssued at birth or during a late registration process.oProof of Residency in SA :oParental Documentation:oCopies of the parents` valid asylum seeker or refugee permits.oLanguage Proficiency:oCertificates or letters confirming proficiency in an official South African language.oProof of Identity:2.Attend an Interview:oThe applicant may be required to attend an interview at the DHA.3.Receive Confirmation:oIf the application is approved, the applicant will receive a certificate of naturalization as proof of citizenship.Key Considerations1.Timeliness:oApplications must be submitted after the child turns 18 and no later than a reasonable time afterward to ensure compliance with the law.2.Accuracy:oEnsure all forms are accurately filled out and documents are valid and up to date.3.Statelessness Prevention:oThe procedure aims to prevent statelessness by providing a clear pathway to citizenship for children who meet the criteria.Additional AssistanceIf the process seems complex, applicants can seek help from:•Legal aid organizations specializing in refugee and asylum seeker rights.•Immigration consultants or lawyers such as ourselves familiar with South African citizenship laws.How can we help you , please email us to info@samigration.com or whatsapp message me on: +27 82 373 8415, where are you now? check our website : www.samigration.com