Legal Requirements for
Getting Married in South Africa

The legal requirements for getting married in South Africa are relatively simple and straightforward.

The following information is intended to be a starting point and guideline only.



Although much care and effort has been taken to ensure the information provided is correct please do not take it as legal advice. I strongly advise you to consult the Embassy or High Commission of South Africa for first hand information.



Legality of Marriage

The marriage of UK and Irish citizens conducted in South Africa is legally binding under UK and Irish law.

This is also the case for citizens from most other countries wishing to marry in South Africa.



Residency Requirements

There are no minimum residency requirements for getting married in South Africa.



Required Documentation

All documents must be original and taken with you to South Africa.

• Full Birth Certificate.
• 10 Year Passport with at least 6 months validity remaining.
• If you are divorced – a Decree Absolute.
• If you are a widower – a Death certificate and previous Marriage Certificate.
• If you are under 18 – written consent.

In South Africa, only marriage officers authorised by law can perform marriage ceremonies.

Civil marriages are solemnized at offices of the Department of Home Affairs and at churches with authorized marriage officers.



Place of Marriage

A wedding ceremony in South Africa may only be conducted in a church or another building used for religious services, or in a public office or private house, with open doors.



Witnesses

You will be required to have a least 2 witnesses present at your marriage ceremony.



Marriage Register

After the solemnisation of your marriage, you and your two witnesses must sign the marriage register. You will then be issued with a marriage certificate.



Registration and certificates

After your marriage, the marriage officer will then submit the marriage register to the nearest Home Affairs office. Your marriage will then be recorded in South Africa’s National Population Register (NPR).

If you would like additional marriage certificates you must complete form BI-130 and lodge this at the nearest Home Affairs office. A fee must also be paid for additional certificates.



Same Sex Weddings

Same sex weddings are legally recognised in South Africa and the process is the same as for heterosexual marriages.




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