Family Law2025-11-246 min read
How to Change Your Name and Update Your ID in South Africa
Want to change your name legally? A step-by-step guide to changing your name through Home Affairs or by deed poll, updating your ID, and notifying institutions.
Two Ways to Change Your Name
1. Through Home Affairs (Free, Slow)
Apply at any Home Affairs office using Form BI-193. Processing takes 3-6 months.
2. By Deed Poll (Paid, Faster)
Change your name through the High Court. Costs R2,000-R5,000 and takes 2-4 weeks.
Steps for Home Affairs
- Complete Form BI-193.
- Gather documents (ID, birth certificate, proof of reason).
- Submit to Home Affairs.
- Wait for approval (3-6 months).
- Apply for a new ID.
Steps for Deed Poll
- Consult a lawyer to draft the deed poll.
- Publish a notice in the Government Gazette and newspaper.
- Obtain the court order.
- Update your ID at Home Affairs.
After Changing Your Name
Update your name with:
- Banks, SARS, medical aid, insurance, employer.
- Deeds office (if you own property).
- Driver's license and passport.
Key Takeaways
- Change your name through Home Affairs (free, slow) or deed poll (paid, faster).
- Apply for a new ID after approval.
- Notify all institutions of your new name.
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