In-person Application
Go to the DHA office and obtain an application form for changing your name in the Register. The applicant must obtain an application form that meets his or her needs. If you need to change your surname, you must obtain Form BI-85 from the DHA office and fill it out as instructed.
Is it legal in South Africa to change one’s name?
In essence, while South Africans have the right to change their name or names at any time, there are stricter rules in place when it comes to marriage or divorce. Marriage: A surname can be changed to the spouse’s surname, double-barreled, or kept the same.
How long does it take in South Africa to change your surname?
Because the amendment must be published in the Government Gazette, all of the above applications will take 3 to 4 months to process. When the application is completed, the applicant will be sent an abridged birth certificate to confirm the updated information.
How to change your surname
- Forms BI-196 and BI-529 are used to request a change in the surname of a major application.
- Form DHA-9 – All applications for amendments from people aged 16 and up MUST include the finger print form.
- A birth certificate indicating parentage and place of birth.
- Evidence of use of the to-be-registered name.
What Is the Cost of Changing Names at Home Affairs?
Re-registration of a child born out of wedlock takes 6-8 weeks and it is free
Altering a minor’s surname takes 6-8 weeks-R70.00
R325.00 assuming a different surname
- Gender change – R70.00
