Unabridged Birth Certificate Assistance (South Africa)
An unabridged birth certificate is the full birth record issued by the Department of Home Affairs, including the details of both parents. Embassies, immigration authorities and legal processes usually ask for this version rather than the shorter abridged certificate.
Police Clear handles the application with Home Affairs, from preparation to collection. Estimated 8 to 10 weeks, from R7,164.50 including VAT, with express options available on request.
- Description
Description
Police Clear (Pty) Ltd is an independent document facilitation company. We do not issue birth certificates. The Department of Home Affairs issues them.
What is an unabridged birth certificate?
An unabridged birth certificate is a detailed official record that includes the full particulars of both parents as well as the details of the birth.
That is what makes it different from the abridged certificate, and why authorities that need to establish parentage or family relationships ask for it.
When you need an unabridged birth certificate
- Visa and immigration applications
- Emigration and citizenship applications
- Legal and administrative processes that need a full birth record
- Travel involving a minor, where the authorities concerned require proof of parentage
If the certificate is going abroad, it may also need an apostille.
What we handle
- Preparing and submitting the application to Home Affairs
- Checking your documents before submission
- Updates while the application is in progress
- Collecting the certificate once it is issued
What you need to start
- The identity document of the person applying
- The parents’ identity documents, where available
- Any further documents your case needs
Send us your details and we will tell you which supporting documents apply.
How long does an unabridged birth certificate take?
Estimated 8 to 10 weeks, depending on your documents and Home Affairs processing times. Express options are available on request. Timeframes are estimates, not guarantees.
Unabridged birth certificate cost
| Unabridged birth certificate assistance | From R7,164.50 including VAT |
| Turnaround | Estimated 8 to 10 weeks, express on request |
Pricing correct as at 16 September 2026. Prices include VAT at 15%, are quoted in South African rand, are subject to change without notice, and are indicative rather than an offer. A binding price is given in a written quotation. Any statutory fees charged by SAPS, Home Affairs or another authority are set by that authority and are payable in addition unless your quotation says otherwise. DIRCO does not charge for legalisation. Timeframes are estimates, not guarantees. Our refund and cancellation terms are in our terms and conditions.
Frequently asked questions
What is the difference between an abridged and unabridged birth certificate?
The unabridged certificate includes the full particulars of both parents. The abridged certificate does not, which is why authorities establishing parentage usually ask for the unabridged version.
How long does an unabridged birth certificate take?
Estimated 8 to 10 weeks, depending on Home Affairs processing. Express options are available on request. Timeframes are estimates, not guarantees.
Can I apply for my child’s unabridged birth certificate?
Yes. Tell us who the certificate is for and we will tell you which documents apply.
Can I get an unabridged birth certificate from abroad?
Contact us with your details and where you live, and we will talk you through how the application can be handled.
This page describes a document facilitation service. It is general information and is not legal or immigration advice. Requirements and timeframes are set by the relevant department, institution or authority, and change from time to time. Confirm them with that body before you rely on them.
