Increasing Numbers of South Africans Becoming New Zealand Citizens

South Africans have become the third largest group of new citizens in New Zealand, surpassing Filipinos. Nearly 40,000 individuals gained citizenship last year, with significant increases from Pacific Islanders and Germans. The trend points to a sustained commitment among South African migrants due to ongoing political issues in their home country.

Recent data indicates that South Africans have surpassed Filipinos, positioning them as the third largest group of new citizens in New Zealand. In the past year, nearly 40,000 individuals attained New Zealand citizenship, with a notable 67 percent increase in citizenship among Pacific Islanders. Furthermore, Tonga has re-emerged on the list of top sources for new citizens, while the number of Australians obtaining citizenship has declined.

Additionally, more than 700 Germans acquired New Zealand citizenship due to a recent amendment in their home country’s dual citizenship regulations. Conversely, despite a significant Chinese resident population, many Chinese individuals must renounce their citizenship to become New Zealand nationals, resulting in lower citizenship figures from China relative to its resident numbers. India has maintained its status as the primary source country for new citizens, followed closely by Britain.

Demographer Professor Paul Spoonley has noted a marked increase in new citizen figures, representing a significant rise compared to previous periods. He pointed out that migration to New Zealand traditionally does not necessitate citizenship for accessing services or voting, which has been the case since the 1960s. Permanent residency affords most rights typically associated with citizenship, yet many individuals pursue citizenship primarily for the practical benefit of holding a New Zealand passport.

Professor Spoonley further observed that both South Africa and the Philippines are likely to remain prominent sources of migration to New Zealand in the coming years, citing ongoing political instability in South Africa and the sizeable Filipino diaspora already established in New Zealand. He remarked on the dynamic relationship between push factors, such as crime and political circumstances in South Africa, and pull factors, including existing family connections and community support in New Zealand.

Historical trends reveal that from 1949 to 2014, Britain contributed over 25 percent of new citizens, subsequently followed by China and Samoa. However, data as of 2023 shows India has risen to the second position overall in terms of origins of new citizens. Notably, Taiwan also features in the top ten, despite its smaller population, attributed to a migration influx during the 1990s.

In summary, the recent surge in South Africans obtaining New Zealand citizenship reflects broader migration patterns influenced by geopolitical factors and established diasporas. The trend underscores the enduring commitment of migrants to New Zealand, with both South Africa and India emerging as vital contributors to the nation’s demographic landscape.

Original Source: www.rnz.co.nz