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Can south african permanent residents apply for citizenship? If so, when?

Source: Samigration, 03/03/2025

South African permanent residents can apply for citizenship through the process of naturalization. Here is a detailed explanation of how and when they can apply:Eligibility for CitizenshipTo be eligible for South African citizenship by naturalization, you must meet the following criteria: - Permanent Residency: You must hold a valid permanent residence permit. - Residency Requirements: There are different interpretations of the residency requirement: o General Rule: You must have been a permanent resident for at least five years after acquiring your permanent residence status. Additionally, you should not have been absent from South Africa for more than 90 days per year in any of the five years preceding your application25. o Alternative Interpretation: Some sources suggest that you need to have been ordinarily resident in South Africa for at least one year immediately preceding the application date. Furthermore, you must have resided in South Africa for a total of at least four years during the eight years prior to the application13. - Marriage to a South African Citizen: If you are married to a South African citizen, you can apply after residing in South Africa for at least two years immediately preceding your application1. - Good Character: You must be of good character, which typically involves providing police clearance certificates from South Africa and any other countries where you have lived for more than a year since turning 1813.Application Process Here is a step-by-step guide on how to apply for citizenship by naturalization:1.Determine Eligibility:oEnsure you meet all the eligibility criteria mentioned above.2.Gather Required Documentation:o You will need: - residence before applying (if applicable). - Background check from the South African police. - Police clearance from your current country/countries of citizenship. - Proof of application fee payment. - Proof of language proficiency (usually a passed test certificate). - Letter confirming acceptance of dual nationality (if applicable).3.Submit Your Application:o Applications can be submitted to the Department of Home Affairs or South African missions abroad. Processing times can vary, so it is advisable to submit your application well in advance.4.Await Approval:o Once your application is submitted, you may be asked to attend an interview or provide additional information. The processing time for naturalization is usually longer than for citizenship by birth or descent.5.Receive Your Citizenship Certificate: o Upon approval, you will be issued a citizenship certificate, confirming your status as a South African citizen. You may also need to take an oath of allegiance.Dual Citizenship Considerations If your original country does not allow dual citizenship, you will need to renounce your former citizenship before becoming a South African citizen. However, if your home country permits dual citizenship, you can retain both nationalities.Overall, permanent residents can apply for citizenship after meeting the required residency and eligibility criteria, and by following the detailed application process outlined above.

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