The birth of children in the United Kingdom from South African parents often causes confusion about the citizenship of the children, as parents are not sure whether the child automatically receives British citizenship and what the case will be regarding the child’s South African citizenship. There is also even more confusion in cases where the parents have received British citizenship, and have since moved back to South Africa!

The consultants at Breytenbach’s Immigration have subsequently drafted a short guidance on these issues. It is, however, important to keep in mind that these are broad guidelines and it is best to seek professional advice for your unique circumstances.

South African parents with dual citizenship

British citizenship for the child

If a baby is born from South African parents who have both British and South African citizenship, his/her citizenship will depend on where he/she is born. If the child is born in Britain (i.e. British by birth), he/she will automatically be British, and the parents can simply apply for a British passport as soon as the child is born.

If the child is born outside of the UK (i.e. British by descent), the application will have to be made through the British High Commission in the country where the child is born.

South African citizenship

If the parents of the child hold dual nationality, South African and British citizenship, the child will also be able to apply for South African citizenship. The parents will need to register the child’s birth at the South African High Commission if born in the UK. This must be done shortly after the birth.

If the child is born in South Africa, the parents must simply register the birth at the Department of Home Affairs.

If you want to apply for a UK visa, why not arrange a consultation with Breytenbach’s Immigration Consultants and allow us to ease the burden and help you with the application? We offer a professional, friendly and exemplary service that will put your mind at ease and ensure that the application process is smooth and efficient. Contact us today at info@bic-immigration.com or visit www.bic-immigration.com.