Unabridged Birth Certificate
3-4 Weeks
Processing
The Process
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Document Preparation
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Certified copy of the applicant’s ID or passport
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Details of the child and parents (ID/passport copies may be required)
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Completed DHA application form
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Submission to Home Affairs
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We lodge the application directly with DHA.
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Verification
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DHA verifies details against the National Population Register.
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Issuance of the Certificate
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DHA prints and issues the Unabridged Birth Certificate.
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Collection & Delivery
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We collect the document and arrange delivery, either locally or internationally.
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Processing Time
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Expected timeframe: 3–4 weeks (not taking into account any system shutdowns at DHA)
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With our assistance: We help prevent unnecessary delays by ensuring documents are complete and applications are monitored closely
Unabridged Birth Certificate
An Unabridged Birth Certificate (also known as a Full Birth Certificate) is an official document issued by the South African Department of Home Affairs (DHA). Unlike the abridged version, which only contains the child’s basic details, the unabridged certificate includes information about both parents.
This certificate is often required for:
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Applying for foreign visas and immigration
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International travel with minors (especially if travelling without both parents)
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School or university applications abroad
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Adoption or custody cases
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Passport applications in certain circumstances
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Proof of parentage for legal purposes
We assist South African citizens in applying for, tracking, and collecting Unabridged Birth Certificates from the Department of Home Affairs.
With our support, you can avoid common delays caused by incomplete documentation or administrative backlogs
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
1. What is the difference between an abridged and an unabridged birth certificate
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An abridged birth certificate only contains the child’s basic details.
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An unabridged birth certificate (full version) includes details of both parents and is required for many official and international purposes.
2. Can I apply for an unabridged birth certificate from abroad?
Yes. If you are outside South Africa, you can apply through a South African embassy or consulate. Alternatively, you can courier the required documents to us, and we can process the application on your behalf.
3. Which documents are required to apply?
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Certified copy of your South African ID or passport
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Details of the child (name, date of birth, place of birth)
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Certified copies of the parents’ IDs or passports
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Completed DHA application form
4. Is the unabridged birth certificate valid for life?
Yes. Once issued, the certificate does not expire. However, if your details change (e.g., through adoption or name change), you may need a new one.
5. Why do I need an unabridged birth certificate for travel with children?
South African law requires additional documentation to combat child trafficking. When travelling with a minor, authorities often request an unabridged birth certificate to confirm parentage
6. Does the unabridged certificate need to be apostilled or legalised?
If you plan to use the certificate abroad, many countries require it to be apostilled (for Hague Convention countries) or legalised (for non-Hague countries). We can assist with this process.
7. Do you issue the certificates yourselves?
No. Only the Department of Home Affairs issues unabridged birth certificates. Our role is to assist with the application, tracking, collection, and delivery to save you time and reduce stress.
