How surname changes from marriage or divorce work

South Africans applying for surname changes after marriage or divorce often find it a complicated and lengthy process. Essentially, there are a number of ways to tackle the process but going at it on your own can often leave you waiting much longer for the changes of a surname to be applied. In this post, we look at how surname changes from marriage or divorce work and the fastest way to have these changes implemented.

 

Instances where surnames changes are legal in South Africa

 

South Africans have the freedom to change their names at any given time, but the rules around changing your surname are much more concrete. Essentially, you can only change your surname when you get married, divorced, or adopted.

South Africans who want to change their surnames after getting married can only change their surnames to their spouse. Here, they have the option of taking on a double-barrelled surname, or alternatively, they may choose to keep their own surname. You can read more about these rules on the Department of Home Affairs website.

In the event of a divorce, a surname can only be changed back to a maiden name or previous surname or kept the same as the married surname.

 

What challenges do South Africans face with surname changes from marriage or divorce?

 

One of the biggest reported problems is usually from newlyweds needing new documentation based on their new surnames. After marriage, changing their surnames and obtaining an unabridged marriage certificate takes a very long time. Sometimes, they cannot register for certain services or apply for things in their new names.

However, whatever the reason for a surname change in South Africa, the timing taken to update, process, and correct surnames seem to be the root of most problems.

 

Changing your documentation after surname changes

 

Without a registered marriage or divorce on the DHA’s system, or the correct documentation (e.g., a divorce decree), it is very difficult to change anything documentation relating to your name. Usually, the DHA BI-196 Application Form for “Authority to assume another surname” is submitted.

 

1 – Register your marriage or divorce

Register your marriage or your divorce with the Department of Home Affairs. We can assist you in doing this.

2- Amend your ID document/card

The first document to change, which allows you to change almost all others, is your ID document. This used to be a booklet but is now a plastic card with an electronic chip inside it. To obtain this, you will need your new document registration from point 1.

3- Apply changes to your identity documents and financial records

 

The following documents are most likely:

• Passport. Not necessary to change this unless it has expired. You can fly and travel with your old surname and a copy of your marriage or divorce, plus your new ID card.
• Driver’s license. Same as your passport – you do not need to update this until your license expires. But carry your new ID card together with your driver’s license.
• SARS / Tax details. Inform SARS and make sure your new details are listed.
• Bank accounts, bank cards, and financial institutions. Inform your bank – they will require a copy of your ID card and possibly your marriage certificate or divorce decree.
• Employee details at your place of work. Let your employer know, as they often send employment records to pension and insurance companies.