South Africa: Information on whether Pakistanis can acquire South African nationality or permanent residence status
| Publisher | Canada: Immigration and Refugee Board of Canada |
| Author | Research Directorate, Immigration and Refugee Board, Canada |
| Publication Date | 1 May 1992 |
| Citation / Document Symbol | ZAF10796 |
| Cite as | Canada: Immigration and Refugee Board of Canada, South Africa: Information on whether Pakistanis can acquire South African nationality or permanent residence status, 1 May 1992, ZAF10796, available at: https://www.refworld.org/docid/3ae6ac2b4.html [accessed 22 May 2023] |
| Disclaimer | This is not a UNHCR publication. UNHCR is not responsible for, nor does it necessarily endorse, its content. Any views expressed are solely those of the author or publisher and do not necessarily reflect those of UNHCR, the United Nations or its Member States. |
The information contained in this Response was provided by the Vice-Consul for Migration in the General Consulate of South African in New York, during a telephone interview with the IRBDC (6 May 1992). The Vice-Consul emphasized that South Africa does not discriminate against people on the basis of race. If a Pakistani was born in South Africa, he/she would have a right to South African nationality. If on the other hand, a Pakistani wished to immigrate to South Africa, he would have to obtain an offer of employment in South Africa and then apply to the Department of Migration. The department would carry out a preliminary assessment and if the applicant qualified, a temporary residence permit would be issued to him or her. After five years of residence in South Africa, an individual automatically qualifies for South African nationality. Although South Africa does not officially recognize dual nationality, individuals can apply for permission to retain passports of their countries of origin. Each case is considered on an individual basis.
For further information on South African nationality, please refer to the attached South African Citizenship Act No.44 of 1949 and the South African Citizenship Amendment Act No. 95 of 1981.
Reference
General Consulate of South Africa, New York. 6 May 1992. Telephone Interview with Vice-Consul for Migration.
Attachment
Statutes of the Republic of South Africa: South African Citizenship Act No. 44 of 1949; South African Citizenship Amendment Act No. 95 of 1981.
