South African citizens and permanent residents, 16 years and older, must be in possession of an identity document.  Persons applying for their South African ID book for the first time must submit their applications through their nearest Department of Home Affairs in South Africa.  South African embassies and consulates can only process applications for re-issuance.

Requirements:

• Form BI-10, Application for the Re-Issue of an Identity Document
• Form BI-9, Application for ID document

BI-10 and BI-9 forms are not available for downloading. Please send a self-addressed stamped envelope with a request to receive these forms.

• Two (2) recent photographs; head and shoulder measuring 40 mm x 30 mm with applicant's name and ID number written on the reverse side

• Certified copy of applicant's old ID Book or birth certificate

• Copy of Marriage Certificate, Divorce Decree or Spouse's Death Certificate, if applicable.

• Written request to change "Surname".  To be submitted by recently married female applicants who would like:

  • 1) to retain their maiden surnames, or

  • 2) wish to use double–barrel surnames;

• Fees and processing time

• Where to submit your application

Last Revised: Monday, March 09, 2009