Dual Citizens: Good News if You Lost Your South African Citizenship, But…

KVV Inc Attorneys

Published on: 04/03/2025

South Africans who unknowingly lost their citizenship by acquiring foreign citizenship without prior ministerial permission may be in luck. The Supreme Court of Appeal (SCA) ruled the relevant provision invalid, deeming affected citizens to have never lost their status. However, this ruling awaits Constitutional Court (CC) confirmation. Until then, the Department of Home Affairs may still enforce the provision. Critically, while dual citizenship is permitted, always enter and exit South Africa using a valid South African passport. This information does not constitute legal advice.