The Procedure to Get My Birth Certificate in South Africa

How long does it take to get a copy of a birth certificate in South Africa?

This process will take 6 – 8 weeks. If you’re waiting on the unabridged birth certificate and need to travel, consider asking a Home Affairs office for a letter that provides the details of both parents

What is the fastest way to get an unabridged birth certificate?

It can take up to 24 weeks to obtain your certificate at Home Affairs. We will expedite your order and obtain your certificate in in the 8 week window. We collect your order the day that it is ready. Please note, if Home Affairs cannot find your records you will have to fill out both a BI-288 & BI-24 forms.

 How much is a copy of a birth certificate in South Africa?

In South Africa, a copy of a birth certificate costs R75. But you have to apply for it at the Department of Home Affairs yourself, and it can take up to six months before you receive it. If you’re looking for a copy of a birth certificate, there must be a reason for doing so.

Who can apply for a Birth Certificate in South Africa?

Birth certificates are issued upon request to persons who are:

• South African citizens, whether in the Republic or outside the Republic, including persons who are not South African citizens but who sojourn permanently or temporarily in the Republic, for whatever purpose.

If you need additional copies of a birth certificate you must: 

• complete Form BI–154 and submit it to the nearest office of the Department of Home Affairs if you are in South Africa, or the nearest South African embassy, mission or consulate if you are overseas
• pay the required fee for the application.

Can Undocumented Foreigners Apply for a Birth Certificate in South Africa?

Undocumented Foreign Nationals who are born in South Africa are issued with a certificate free of charge on registration of their births.