About applying for change of sex description

If you have undergone a sex change operation or medical treatment that causes your gender to change, you can apply to the Director-General of the Department of Home Affairs to have your description of gender changed.

When your sex is changed, you will be given a new identity number. You must then apply for a new identity document (ID) as soon as the change is approved.

What you should do

• Complete application form BI-526 at any Home Affairs office (Apply at a South African embassy or mission if you live abroad).
• Submit reports:
• by the plastic surgeon that performed the operation 
• from general medical practitioner that examined you and confirmed that the operation took place.
• Once the operation is completed, then the identity number will be changed.
  

Timeframe

Application may take up to 8 weeks.

How much does it cost

• Change of gender - R70
• Re-issue of ID - R140.00

Forms to complete

• *Change of gender, BI-526
• *Application for identity document, BI-9

Note: *Special specifications and requirements regarding the processing of this form apply and it may therefore not be downloaded for use as an application or registration form. All forms are available at any regional or district office of the Department.

Who to contact