If you live in South Africa, you can get a copy of your marriage certificate from any Home Affairs office, and if you live abroad, you can get one from any South African embassy or consulate.
In South Africa, where can I obtain a marriage certificate?
If you were married in South Africa and your marriage is registered, you can apply to the Department of Home Affairs for a copy of your marriage certificate. The first issue of an abridged marriage certificate is free, but a second issue or an unabridged certificate will cost you money.
What documents am I required to submit when applying for an unabridged marriage certificate?
All applicants must submit photocopies of personal documents, such as passports, identity documents, birth, marriage, and death certificates, and divorce decrees, along with the original documents – no photocopies will be made at the Consulate.
Is it legal in South Africa to have a handwritten marriage certificate?
When you marry, the marriage officer, two witnesses, and the couple must sign the marriage register. The marriage officer must then provide the married couple with a free handwritten certificate (BI-27).
Is it possible for a marriage to be valid if it is not registered?
If a copy of the marriage certificate is not filed with the local civil registry, the marriage is still valid. For late registration, married couples will simply present a copy of their marriage certificate to the civil registry.
