South African citizenship
More expats have returned to South Africa in the last five years than you might think, well over 300 000, in fact. Image: File

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How eager expats can regain their South African citizenship

For expats planning to return permanently, the process to regain South African citizenship is relatively simple. Here’s how it works…

By Ray Leathern
22-10-24 14:52
in Featured
South African citizenship
More expats have returned to South Africa in the last five years than you might think, well over 300 000, in fact. Image: File

There’s positive news for expats looking to regain their South African citizenship. According to FinGlobal, you can apply to reacquire South African citizenship if you are a former citizen by birth or descent, and have returned permanently to live in the country. Following positive immigration reform in 2024 from the ever-improving Department of Home Affairs, South Africa is desperate to fill upwards of 800 000 critical skills shortages.

These represent top-paying jobs across sectors like Information Technology (IT), Management, Financial Services, Healthcare, and Education. Better still, SA Good News reports more than 300 000 South Africans have already returned in the past five years, with more anticipated as the economy continues to improve under our Government of National Unity (GNU).

REACQUIRE SOUTH AFRICAN CITIZENSHIP

However, how can returning expats reacquire South African citizenship? Well, if you are a former citizen by naturalisation, you must re-apply for permanent residence first. What do you need to apply?

  • Complete forms DHA-175 and DHA-52.
  • A completed application for identity document form DHA-9.
  • Two Passport and ID photos (to the correct specs).
  • Proof of residence (like a municipal account with your name and address on it), plus a copy.
  • A marriage certificate (if applicable), plus a copy.
  • Proof of payment of the reapplication fee.

AREN’T SOME CITIZENS EXEMPT?

You’re correct, some South African citizens might be exempt from having to reapply. If you acquired a foreign citizenship before 6 October 1995, you are eligible to apply for an exemption from the loss. To apply for this exemption, you will need to:

Furthermore, if you’re already a dual citizen in another country or you intend to acquire citizenship elsewhere, you must apply to renounce your South African citizenship. To do so, you must:

  • Complete form DHA-24.
  • Provide proof of your dual citizenship or confirmation that you are applying for another citizenship.
  • Then submit these documents to your nearest Home Affairs office/branch or South African Embassy, Mission or Consulate.

Visit FinGlobal’s website HERE for secure, simplified financial services for returning South Africans or those living abroad. Possessing dual citizenship comes with many financial implications, including accessing the new two-pot retirement savings scheme. Thankfully, the firm has a wide range of financial services tailored-made for expats.

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