How do I change my surname to my late father's surname?

The long answer

I am assuming that your previous surname was your mother and stepfather’s surname. 

If you are under 18 years old, and your stepfather had legally adopted you when he married your mother, you would need to get both your mother’s and your stepfather’s permission to change your surname. 

If you are under 18 years old and were not legally adopted by your stepfather, and your mother simply gave you his name, you would only need your mother’s permission.  

If you are no longer a minor (so, no longer under 18 years old), you are legally an adult, and you can change your surname to your deceased father’s without permission. 

You need to fill in Form B1-196 from the Department of Home Affairs in black ink. Form B1-196 is “Authority to assume another surname.” You can also download the form online: DHA B1-196 Application Form.

On the application form, there is a section where you must fill in “a good and sufficient reason” for changing your name. This could be that you want to carry on your biological father’s name now that he has passed away. 

You will also need to submit Form DHA-9, which is the full fingerprints form. This form cannot be downloaded, but you can get it at Home Affairs or at police stations.

You will also need to submit the following supporting documents to Home Affairs:

• A certified copy of your current ID/Smart ID Card;

• A certified copy of your birth certificate showing your biological father’s and your mother’s details;

• A certified copy of your father’s death certificate.

You will need to pay a fee of about R260.

The Director-General (DG) of Home Affairs must authorise the change of surname. After that, the DG will publish the amended name in the Government Gazette. The DG will then issue a Certificate from the Population Register on the change of name.

Wishing you the best,
Athalie