Marriage licenses
After a marriage is solemnized, two witnesses and the marriage official must sign the marriage register. The marriage official must then provide the parties with a complimentary handwritten marriage certificate (BI-27).
The marriage official must next submit the marriage register to the nearest Department of Home Affairs office, where the details of the marriage will be registered in the National Population Register (NPR).
Additional abridged or unabridged copies of the marriage certificate can be obtained by filling out Form BI-130 in black ink and sending it to the nearest Department of Home Affairs office or South African embassy, mission, or consulate overseas.
Payment of the specified charge
The initial shortened marriage certificate is free, but a re-issue costs R75.00.
After completing Form BI-130 and paying the specified costs, you may additionally request the following papers in addition to abbreviated or unabridged copies of a marriage certificate:
The register in the vault
A marriage certificate that has been shortened and is either computer produced or handwritten.
How can I obtain an online copy of my marriage certificate in South Africa?
You can apply for a copy of your marriage certificate at any Home Affairs office in South Africa, or at any South African embassy or consulate abroad.
How long does it take to obtain a full marriage certificate?
You can apply directly to Home Affairs for the Unabridged Marriage Certificate, although this can take up to 8 weeks from the date of application.
What if you misplace your marriage certificate?
This might be tough to locate or get. If you have misplaced your certificate, you must contact the Registrar or similar local official in the nation where you were married and get a certified copy. It is critical to have proof of the marriage and the legitimacy of the ceremony.
How can I tell whether my marriage certificate is complete?
You can also text the letter M followed by your ID number to 32551 (example: M 5001010050080). A response SMS will be sent to your telephone to confirm your marital status and wedding date.
