Many South Africans relocate for work, study, or a new life abroad, but retaining South African citizenship can be crucial for maintaining ties to the country. Whether you plan to return in the future or want to keep access to certain rights and privileges, understanding the requirements for maintaining your citizenship while living abroad is essential.
Important update: As of early May 2025, a ConCourt ruling has effectively nullified the need for a Retention Letter, please read more here.
Can you lose your South African citizenship while living abroad?
Yes. If you voluntarily acquire the citizenship of another country without first applying for retention of South African citizenship, you automatically lose your South African citizenship. This applies to adults over 18 years old.
However, if you were born with dual nationality, you won’t lose your South African citizenship even if you acquire another nationality.
How to retain South African citizenship before naturalising elsewhere
If you’re planning to apply for foreign citizenship, you must first apply for retention of South African citizenship before finalising the process.
Steps to apply for retention of citizenship
- Complete the BI-1664 form – This is the official application for retention of South African citizenship.
- Provide supporting documents, including:
- A copy of your valid South African passport.
- Proof of permanent residence or a valid visa in the country where you’re applying for citizenship.
- A letter from the foreign government confirming that your application for citizenship is in process (if applicable).
- Submit the application at your nearest South African embassy, high commission, or consulate.
- Await approval – Once approved, you will receive a letter confirming your retention of citizenship, allowing you to proceed with naturalisation in another country without losing your South African citizenship.
What happens if you lose your South African citizenship?
If you did not apply for retention before acquiring another nationality, you stand to possibly automatically lose your South African citizenship. However, you do not lose your right to permanent residence in South Africa and can still apply for a restoration of citizenship if you wish to regain it later.
How to apply for restoration of South African citizenship
- You must return to South Africa and apply in person at the Department of Home Affairs.
- Submit proof of your former South African citizenship and your foreign nationality documents.
- If approved, your citizenship will be restored, allowing you to regain your South African passport and full rights.
Benefits of keeping your South African citizenship while living abroad
Even if you live abroad permanently, retaining South African citizenship offers several advantages:
- Ability to return freely – As a citizen, you can live and work in South Africa without restrictions.
- Pass on citizenship to children – Your children born abroad can claim South African citizenship if you remain a citizen.
- Maintain property rights – Some property transactions in South Africa may have restrictions for foreign nationals.
- Access to financial and business opportunities – Certain financial and business benefits are available only to South African citizens.
Need help with citizenship-related documents?
If you need assistance obtaining South African citizenship certificates, birth certificates, or legalising documents for use abroad, Apostil.co.za can help streamline the process. Contact us for fast, efficient document services wherever you are in the world.
