Retention of South African Citizenship (Processing time 1 month)
Exemption in Terms of Section 6(2).
Important Note: It is important to apply for Retention before acquiring Foreign Citizenship or you will lose your status as a South African Citizen. Children 17 and below at the time of aplication are automatically covered by parents' retention. Make sure you have received your retention certificate or before attending the swearing in ceremony.
This exemption is applicable to South African citizens who have not yet acquired the citizenship of another country but who are contemlating of becoming one or in the process of obtaining one. This exemption will enable them to become a citizen of another country without losing their South African citizenship. The following application forms must be completed: BI-1664, BI-529 and sent to the High Commission in Ottawa or South African Consulate General in Toronto along with a certified copy of a South Africa ID or a passport, a certified copy of a South African Birth Certificate, copy of PR cards, sworn affidavit stating that no other citizenship has been acquired. Please note that copies of the documents and sworn affidavit should be certified only by a Notary Public or Commissioner of Oaths.
Processing fee is CAN$41 per applicant should be paid by money order or certified cheque only made payable to the South African High Commission or South African Consulate General Toronto. A4 Postage pad self addressed envelope
Exemption from the loss of South African Citizenship (Processing time 1 month)
Exemption in Terms of Section 26(4)
Please Note: if you were under 18 at the time you acquired foreign citizenship you automatically qualify and do not need to apply.
South African citizens who lost their South African citizenship through formal acquisition of another citizenship whilst no longer a minor (18 years and older) and without applying for retention prior to becoming a citizen of another country, may apply for exemption from the loss of their South African citizenship as long as they have acquired the other citizenship before October 6,1995.
The following application forms must be completed: BI-1666, BI-529, a certified copy of a foreign citizenship certificate and a certified copy of a South African ID or a passport or a South African birth certificate must be attached. Please note that copies of the documents should be certified only by a Notary Public or Commissioner of Oaths.
Processing fee is CAN$41 per applicant, should be pay by money order or certified cheque only made payable to the South African High Commission or South African Consulate General Toronto.
A4 Postage paid self addressed envelope.