Changing Your Name on South African Documents 2026
Whether you are changing your surname after marriage, reverting to your maiden name after divorce, correcting an error, or changing your name by choice, this guide explains the full process through the Department of Home Affairs (DHA) -- including how to manage the process from abroad through your nearest South African embassy.
Types of Name Changes
After Marriage
The most common name change. You can adopt your spouse's surname, hyphenate both surnames, or keep your birth surname. This is handled as part of the marriage registration process and does not require a Government Gazette publication. Simply apply for updated documents (ID, passport) with your marriage certificate as proof.
After Divorce
You can revert to your maiden name after divorce. Submit the divorce decree and application form to DHA. This also does not require Gazette publication if you are reverting to a name previously registered with DHA.
Voluntary Name Change
Changing your forename or surname for personal reasons (not related to marriage or divorce). This requires publication in the Government Gazette and is more complex. You must apply to the Director-General of DHA with a motivation for the change.
Error Correction
Correcting a spelling error, wrong birth date, or other mistake on DHA records. This is an administrative correction, not technically a name change. Submit the relevant form with supporting documents (original birth certificate, affidavit explaining the error).
Name Change After Marriage: Step by Step
This is the simplest name change process because no Gazette publication is required.
Step 1Register Your Marriage with DHA
If you married abroad, first register the marriage with DHA through your embassy. If you married in South Africa, it should already be registered. See our marriage certificates guide for details.
Step 2Apply for New Smart ID Card
Submit Form DHA-9 (Application for Identity Document) at your nearest SA embassy along with your unabridged marriage certificate, current SA ID, and passport. The new Smart ID will reflect your married name. Processing: 8-16 weeks from abroad.
Step 3Apply for New Passport
Once your Smart ID is updated, apply for a new passport reflecting the new name. Submit Form DHA-73 (Passport Application) at the embassy with your new Smart ID and old passport. Processing: 6-12 weeks from abroad.
Voluntary Name Change: Government Gazette Process
For name changes that are not related to marriage or divorce, you must follow the formal process under the Births and Deaths Registration Act 51 of 1992:
- Complete Form DHA-194 (Application for Alteration of Forenames or Surname)
- Write a motivation letter explaining why you wish to change your name. Valid reasons include cultural/religious reasons, gender identity, adoption of stepparent's surname, or personal preference
- Provide fingerprints (taken at the embassy if abroad)
- Submit supporting documents: certified copies of ID, passport, birth certificate, and any other relevant documents
- Pay the application fee (R140 plus embassy surcharge)
- DHA reviews the application and, if approved, publishes the name change in the Government Gazette
- Wait for the objection period -- after Gazette publication, there is a period during which any person may object to the name change
- If no objections, the name change is finalised and you can apply for updated documents
Total processing time: 3-12 months depending on DHA workload and whether any objections are received.
Managing the Process from Abroad
If you are living overseas, the entire name change process is handled through your nearest South African embassy or consulate:
What the Embassy Does
- Accepts your application forms and documents
- Takes your fingerprints (if required)
- Verifies your identity
- Forwards everything to DHA Pretoria via diplomatic bag
- Notifies you when documents are ready for collection
Expected Timelines from Abroad
- Marriage surname change: 8-16 weeks for Smart ID, then 6-12 weeks for passport
- Voluntary name change: 3-12 months (includes Gazette publication)
- Error correction: 8-16 weeks
- Divorce reversion: 8-16 weeks
Updating All Your Documents After a Name Change
Once your name change is processed by DHA, you need to update the following documents:
| Document | Where to Apply | Required |
|---|---|---|
| Smart ID Card | SA embassy or DHA office | Updated birth certificate or marriage certificate + old ID |
| Passport | SA embassy or DHA office | New Smart ID + old passport + passport photos |
| Birth Certificate | SA embassy (forwarded to DHA) | Name change confirmation letter |
| Driver's Licence | Must be done in South Africa | New Smart ID + old licence |
| Bank Accounts | Your bank | New ID/passport + marriage certificate or Gazette notice |
| SARS Tax Records | Online via eFiling or SARS branch | New ID + supporting documentation |
| Foreign Residence Permits | Foreign immigration authority | New passport + name change evidence |
Costs 2026
| Service | DHA Fee (ZAR) | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Marriage surname change (ID update) | R140 | Plus embassy surcharge |
| Voluntary name change application | R140 | Plus Gazette publication cost |
| Government Gazette publication | R85 | Published by Government Printing Works |
| New passport | R400 | Plus embassy surcharge |
| Error correction | Free - R140 | Depends on nature of error |