Birthright Citizenship in South Africa

Does South Africa have Birthright Citizenship?..

Birthright Citizenship is often thought of as the right to automatic Citizenship of a Country you are born in.

However, there are different levels of Birthright Citizenship.

Prior to 6th October, 1995, a person born in South Africa was a Citizen of South Africa by Birth.

After 6th October, 1995, a person born in South Africa was a Citizen of South Africa by Birth ONLY if that child had a parent who was one of these:

• • a South African citizen or
  • held a South African permanent residence permit at the time of the child’s birth, or
  • was adopted by a South African citizen or held a South African permanent residence permit.

Department of Home Affairs, South Africa. South African Citizenship Amendment Act

South African Citizenship Act, 1995 PDF