24 Apr Citizenship in South Africa for Children Born Abroad

Did you know children born abroad have the potential to become South African citizens?  A child can potentially have South African citizenship if they meet the specific criteria.

How Can a Child Born Abroad Get SA Citizenship?

At least one of their parents needs to be South African or should have had South African nationality at the time of their birth. The birth of the child should also be registered with the South African authorities to be eligible for South African citizenship. In addition, children adopted by South Africans can also qualify for citizenship by descent.

Children born abroad and registered as South African citizens are generally allowed to hold dual citizenship. This means that they can be citizens of South Africa and the country where they were born.

Do note that South African citizenship is not automatically granted to children born in South Africa to non-South African parents, even if the child resides in the country permanently.

How to Apply for SA Citizenship by Descent

In order to apply for citizenship by descent, you will need documents such as the child’s birth certificate, the South African parent’s identity document, and potentially a marriage certificate or proof of paternity. Note that if you are applying from abroad, all documents need to be submitted at your nearest South African embassy or consulate.

In the case where the child was born outside of South Africa, you must register the child’s birth at the Department of Home Affairs (DHA) or the South African embassy or consulate.

How Long Will It Take for the Application to be Processed?

In South Africa, the processing time can range between 4 to 12 months, while if you are applying from abroad via a South African embassy, it might take up to 18 months. Due to high volumes, missing documentation, or verification of parentage, the application might experience delays.

The DHA or embassy will verify the presented documents and lineage; afterwards, you will receive a South African birth certificate and eventually a citizenship certificate or registration as a citizen. Once South African nationality is granted, you can also apply for a South African passport.

If you wish to secure your child’s South African citizenship, contact June Luna Immigration Attorneys today, and our team of legal experts will provide you with personalised assistance and guide you through the process every step of the way.