South African Citizenship by Naturalisation
Everything you need to become a South African citizen.
We've done the research. This guide gives you every document, every cost, every address, and every form — so you can focus on the process, not the paperwork chase.
The process
Six phases, clearly explained.
Check Your Eligibility
30 minutesBefore collecting any documents, confirm you meet all the requirements for citizenship by naturalisation. This takes abo…
Gather Your Documents
4–8 weeksCollecting and preparing your documents is the most time-consuming phase. Start with items that require the longest lead…
Complete the DHA Forms
2–3 hoursDownload and complete the required Department of Home Affairs forms. Use our form assistant to pre-fill your details and…
Submit Your Application
Half a daySubmit your complete application package in person at any Department of Home Affairs office. Bring all originals and cer…
Await the Decision
12–24 monthsProcessing times vary. Expect 12–24 months due to current DHA backlogs. You may be called for an interview. Stay reachab…
Citizenship Ceremony
1–2 hoursUpon approval, you will be invited to a formal citizenship ceremony where you take the constitutional oath of allegiance…
Documents
Know before you gather.
The citizenship application requires approximately 10–12 documents. Many take weeks to obtain — especially police clearances and foreign documents. Start early.
SA Police Clearance Certificate (allow 4–8 weeks)
Police clearance from your home country
Dual citizenship confirmation from your embassy
Unabridged birth certificate
All foreign passports with entry/exit stamps
12 months proof of continuous SA residence
4 completed DHA application forms
Estimated costs
Paid at Home Affairs counter
Paid at Home Affairs counter
Paid at police station or private agent
Zimbabwe Consulate, Bruma, Johannesburg
Clicks, Dischem, or photo studio
Commissioner of oaths at police station, bank, or post office
Total out-of-pocket costs vary. Budget approximately R1,500–R2,500 for the full application. Fees exclude any immigration consultant fees if you choose to use one.
Get started today
Ready to start your application?
Use our application assistant to enter your details once and generate a pre-filled summary for all the DHA forms you need.
This guide is for informational purposes. Always verify current requirements directly with the Department of Home Affairs. Requirements, fees, and processing times change — confirm before submitting your application.