Section 17 of The Children’s Act (Act No. 38 of 2005) stipulates that a child becomes a major upon reaching the age of 18 years.

This amendment is in terms of Section 11(1) of the Births and Deaths Registration Act, 1992.

These guidelines are for the re-registration of a child and the insertion of the biological father’s particulars into the birth register of his child, where the child was previously registered as born out of wedlock. A Child previously registered as born out of wedlock and where the parents marry after the registration of the child, may be re-registered as born within wedlock.

Application for corrections, insertion of the biological father’s particulars (where the parents are not married), change of forenames, change of the surname of a major, change of the surname of a minor, is different and the applicable guidelines should be consulted.

The following documentation is required:

1. Completion of forms BI-59 and BI-529
2. New Notice of Birth – Form BI-24

To support and assist with the finalization of the application, copies of the ID, Passport, Marriage Certificate and / or Birth Certificate of the parent(s) should be submitted.

Fee Applicable

Free of charge.

Return Postage.

For applications originating from within Australia – a Self-addressed Registered Post Envelope (only one envelope per family).

Postal Address:

South African High Commission
State Circle
Yarralumla
ACT
2600