About late registration of birth

If you have not registered your child’s birth within the prescribed 30 days, you can still apply for late registration of birth. You must however, furnish reasons for your late registration of the child’s birth.

Registering your child’s birth will enable you to receive a birth certificate for the child. A birth certificate identifies your child’s gender, race, citizenship and age.

What you should do

• Go to your nearest Home Affairs office or South African Embassy or mission if you apply from abroad.
• Complete form DHA 288 and DHA 24.
• Bring the following:
• copy of your identity document 
• two photographs of your child
• an affidavit stating reasons for late registration.
• You must testify place and date of birth of your child.
• Your child’s fingerprints will be taken for recording in the National Population Register if above 15 years or above.

Note: You will receive an abridged birth certificate and you can then apply for an identity document.

Timeframe

Application may take 3 to 6 months.

How much does it cost

The service is free.

Forms to complete

• Late registration of birth affidavit, DHA-288
• Notice of birth, DHA-24

Who to contact

Department of Home Affairs