How to Get a Birth Certificate from Home Affairs
A birth certificate is one of the most important documents a South African citizen can have. Home Affairs issues two types: the abridged (short) birth certificate and the unabridged (full) birth certificate. This guide explains how to obtain both, who needs them, and what to do if a birth was never registered.
Abridged vs Unabridged Birth Certificate
South Africa issues two versions of a birth certificate. The abridged birth certificate shows only the child details. The unabridged birth certificate shows the details of both parents and is required for many international purposes.
| Type | Contains | Common Uses | Fee |
|---|---|---|---|
| Abridged | Child details only | Local school enrolment, domestic use | R75 |
| Unabridged | Child and both parents details | International travel, foreign applications, Smart ID | R75 |
Registering a Birth (Newborns)
All births in South Africa must be registered within 30 days of the birth. Registration is done at any Home Affairs office or, in some cases, at the hospital where the birth occurred.
Failure to register within 30 days does not attract a penalty but may complicate the process slightly.
- Completed BI-24 (Notice of Birth) form, usually completed at the hospital
- Identity documents of both parents (Smart ID or green barcoded ID book)
- Marriage certificate (if parents are married)
- If the father is not present, only the mother needs to sign
- Home Affairs may record the father if he visits the office later with the mother and child
Birth certificates can now also be ordered via the eHomeAffairs portal if you have an account. The certificate is posted or available for collection at a bank branch.
Applying for a Birth Certificate Copy
If you already have a birth registration number but need a physical birth certificate, you can apply for a copy at any Home Affairs office. You will need to complete the BI-154 form.
- Visit any Home Affairs office with your South African ID document
- Complete the BI-154 (Application for a Certificate) form
- Specify whether you need an abridged or unabridged certificate
- Pay the applicable fee of R75
- Collect the certificate (usually within 5 to 10 working days)
Requesting an Unabridged Birth Certificate
The unabridged birth certificate is the full version that includes both parents details. It is required for international travel for children, foreign visa applications, and many overseas institutions.
To apply, complete the BI-154 form and indicate that you require the unabridged version. Processing typically takes 10 to 15 working days.
Required Documents Summary
| Purpose | Documents Required |
|---|---|
| Registering a new birth | BI-24 form, parents IDs, marriage certificate if applicable |
| Abridged birth certificate copy | BI-154 form, applicants ID |
| Unabridged birth certificate | BI-154 form, applicants ID, both parents IDs if available |
| Late birth registration | Sworn affidavit, witnesses, school records, proof of age |
Birth Certificate Fees
- First birth certificate issued at registration: Free
- Abridged birth certificate copy: R75
- Unabridged birth certificate: R75
- Replacement after loss: R75