A Practical Guide to Budget-Friendly Civil Marriages in South Africa
💍 How Much It Costs to Get Married at Home Affairs
How Much to Get Married at Home Affairs? In a world where wedding budgets can spiral into the hundreds of thousands, South Africa’s Department of Home Affairs (DHA) offers a refreshingly affordable alternative: a legally recognised marriage at zero cost. Yes, you read that right—getting married at Home Affairs in 2025 is entirely free of charge.
📝 What’s Included for Free?
When you tie the knot at a Home Affairs office, the following services are provided at no cost:
- Marriage Ceremony: Conducted by an authorised marriage officer.
- Marriage Registration: Your union is officially recorded in the National Population Register.
- Handwritten Abridged Marriage Certificate (BI-27): Issued immediately after the ceremony.
This makes Home Affairs an ideal option for couples seeking a straightforward, budget-friendly way to legalise their union.
📄 Additional Documents and Their Costs
While the marriage process itself is free, you might incur costs for additional documents:
- Unabridged Marriage Certificate: Often required for international travel, visa applications, or registering your marriage abroad.
- Cost: R75
- Copy of the Marriage Register: A detailed record of your marriage.
- Cost: R70
- Apostille/Authentication of Marriage Certificate: Necessary for international use of your marriage certificate.
- Cost: Varies depending on processing times and specific requirements.
📅 The Process: Step-by-Step
- Book an Appointment: Contact your nearest Home Affairs office to schedule your marriage ceremony.
- Prepare Required Documents:
- Valid IDs or passports for both parties.
- If previously married, a final decree of divorce or death certificate of the former spouse.
- For foreign nationals, a Letter of No Impediment from your home country may be required.
- Attend the Ceremony: Conducted by a Home Affairs marriage officer in the presence of at least two witnesses over the age of 18.
- Receive Your Certificate: You’ll be issued a handwritten abridged marriage certificate immediately after the ceremony.
🌐 Customary Marriages and Civil Unions
Home Affairs also registers customary marriages and civil unions. The process is similar, and the cost structure remains the same. For customary marriages, ensure compliance with the Recognition of Customary Marriages Act, which may include additional cultural obligations
Finally Tying the Knot
Opting for a Home Affairs marriage in 2025 is a practical choice for couples looking to formalize their union without the financial strain of a traditional wedding. With no fees for the ceremony or registration, and minimal costs for additional documents, it’s an accessible option for many South Africans.
CHECK OUT: Top African Honeymoon Destinations for 2025: Luxury Escapes for Romantic Getaways
