Home Affairs
How to Get an Unabridged Birth Certificate
The unabridged birth certificate shows both parents' details. It replaces the older abridged (short) certificate and is required for schools, passports and international travel with minors.
Who needs this
Parents needing a full birth certificate for a child's passport, school enrolment, visa application, or international travel.
Advertisement
What you need before you start
- Completed DHA-24 form (application for a full birth certificate)
- Copy of the child's existing birth certificate (if any)
- Both parents' ID documents (originals + copies)
- Marriage certificate if parents are married
Step-by-step process
- 1Download and complete DHA-24
Available at any DHA office or on dha.gov.za. Fill in in black ink.
- 2Attach supporting documents
Include both parents' IDs and the marriage certificate if applicable. For unmarried parents, the father must be present to acknowledge paternity.
- 3Submit at Home Affairs
Hand in at any DHA branch. Pay the current fee — TODO: confirm on dha.gov.za.
- 4Wait for issue
Straightforward applications are usually issued within 6–8 weeks. TODO: confirm current turnaround.
Where, how much, how long
Where to submit
Any Department of Home Affairs branch.
Fees
TODO: confirm current unabridged birth certificate fee.
Processing time
Typically 6–8 weeks. TODO: confirm.
Advertisement
Common rejection reasons
- Missing father's details when both parents are known
- Old surname used after a marriage or divorce
Advertisement
Official sources
Always confirm the latest requirements and fees on the official website before submitting.