Why use Apostil for document notarisation?

Saving you time: We queue for you, we apply on your behalf, we call and travel many times to follow up on your applications and then collect once ready. Usually, we receive documents much, much faster than if you had applied alone, especially if you are based outside of South Africa. You save masses of time using our services.

Why use Apostil for document notarisation?

Experience and know-how: We are a reputable firm with an extensive track record. Other providers are typically back-street operators or single operators – be aware as your personal documentation is at stake. If your documentation has errors, we attempt to have this corrected, usually at no extra cost.

Apostil – Where are we based?

Apostil.co.za has various office addresses in the Western Cape and Gauteng. You can only courier them to us, please enquire for the address (depends on your requirement). We also offer a delivery and collection service within SA and globally, through DHL, The Courier Guy and other companies. To reiterate, we only accept documentation, couriered, to our addresses.

Dual citizenship for South Africans living overseas

Dual citizenship for South Africans living overseas can offer great benefits, such as the freedom to live and work in multiple countries. However, for South Africans, maintaining or acquiring a second nationality comes with legal and administrative challenges. Understanding these complexities can help avoid unintended consequences, including the loss of South African citizenship.

Important update: As of early May 2025, a ConCourt ruling has effectively nullified the need for a Retention Letter, please read more here.

Retaining South African citizenship

South Africans who wish to obtain another nationality must apply for retention of South African citizenship before acquiring the new nationality. If you fail to do this, you will automatically lose your South African citizenship upon gaining another nationality.

How to apply for retention of citizenship

Submit a Retention of Citizenship application to the Department of Home Affairs or the nearest South African embassy.
Provide a letter from the foreign country confirming the intention to grant you citizenship.
Await approval before taking up the foreign nationality.

Failure to follow this process will result in the automatic forfeiture of your South African citizenship, though you may still retain your right to permanent residence.

Challenges of dual citizenship for South Africans living overseas

Entering and exiting South Africa

South African law requires its citizens to enter and exit the country using a valid South African passport. Using another passport to travel in and out of South Africa can lead to fines or complications at border control.

Military and civic obligations

Some countries require naturalised citizens to fulfil military service or civic duties. South Africans considering dual citizenship should be aware of these requirements, as they could have legal or personal implications.

Property ownership and financial regulations

South African exchange control laws can affect how dual citizens manage financial assets and property. Non-residents face restrictions on financial transactions, making it important to understand how dual citizenship may impact access to funds in South Africa.

Restoring lost South African citizenship

If you have already lost your South African citizenship due to acquiring another nationality without applying for retention, you may apply for citizenship restoration. This process requires:

Submitting a restoration application to the Department of Home Affairs.
Meeting residency requirements in South Africa.
Providing supporting documentation.

Restoration is not automatic, and the process can take time. If you need assistance with the paperwork, it’s best to seek professional help.

Need assistance with citizenship-related documents?

Managing dual citizenship requirements and South African legal processes can be complex, especially for those living overseas. Apostil.co.za can assist with obtaining, legalising, and certifying the necessary documents for citizenship retention, restoration, and travel compliance. Contact us today to simplify the process and avoid unnecessary complications.