About applying for a marriage certificate
Apply for a marriage certificate to serve as a proof that your marriage has been registered and it is valid.
There are two kinds of marriage certificates that you can apply for:
- Abridged certificate (short version): An abridged certificate is a certificate issued by Home Affairs which contains both your personal details such as full name, ID number, place and date of the marriage.
- Unabridged certificate (full version): The unabridged certificate is also issued by Home Affairs and contains more detailed information. This is the most formal form of certificate and is required if you plan to travel abroad, emigrate or obtain a foreign passport.
Note: If you live abroad, you can apply for a marriage certificate at the nearest South African mission or Consulate. Verify your marital status online.
[Top] What you should do - Go to your nearest Home Affairs office
- Bring the following:
- your identity document (ID)
- death certificate, if applicable
- a hand-written certificate from the marriage officer.
- If you were not married at Home Affairs offices, the marriage officer (e.g Priest) must submit the marriage register at the Home Affairs office for your marriage particulars to be recorded in the National Population Register (NPR).
[Top] Timeframe [Top] How much does it cost - Abridged marriage certificate: R20
- An unabridged marriage certificate: R75
[Top] Forms to complete
Application for a marriage certificate, BI-130 [Top] Who to contact |