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South Africa Dual Nationality |
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South African Home Affairs and consulate issues – Dual nationality / citizenship
‘A South African who wants to obtain the citizenship of another country has to apply to the Department of Home Affairs to retain his or her South African citizenship before acquiring that of the other country. Dual nationality or citizenship means that the person is regarded a citizen of both countries.’ – South African Government Services.
Many South Africans, who have at some point taken on another citizenship, have to their shock and dismay, learnt that their South African citizenship has been revoked. Due to a lack of understanding why this has happened, it has caused a great deal of anxiety and confusion for many South Africans.
Since the birth of the new South Africa in 1994, South Africans have flocked overseas, either to spend ‘gap years’ between studying and working to experience another country, further their careers or they have immigrated on a more permanent basis.
Many South African nationals have since gained another citizenship, often through naturalisation. This is where most of the complications arise.
South African citizenship determined by the South African Citizenship Act is incredibly complicated and it is vital that an individuals situation is considered carefully and all necessary documentation and fact need to be available to be able clarify a South African’s citizenship status.
Until 2004, South Africa did not in principle, recognise dual citizenship of citizens of South Africa. South Africa did, however, under a 1995 law, permit a South African citizen to travel using a foreign passport if an exemption or permission letter had been applied for.
How do I get professional help?
Professional help can be sought from registered immigration practitioners. Intergate Immigration assists 100’s of returning South Africans and their foreign partners each year.
If you wish to contact Intergate please use the links below:
Request a call back
E-mail your enquiry
Online Eligibility Form
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