South Africa Urges Customary Marriage Registration Before August 31

The Department of Home Affairs is urging couples in qualifying customary marriages to register their unions before a special deadline on August 31, 2026. This registration window, gazetted by Minister Leon Schrieber in September 2024, allows couples to regularize marriages concluded before the Recognition of Customary Marriages Act of November 2000, or those concluded later that were not registered within the prescribed timeframe.

While missing the deadline does not invalidate a marriage—provided the parties were 18 or older, gave mutual consent, and followed customary law—registration provides a certificate that serves as official evidence. This documentation is critical for accessing spousal benefits, pensions, and legal parental consent for minor children's passport applications.

Deputy Director-General Thulani Mavuso warned that unregistered marriages often lead to legal disputes over estates and matrimonial property, particularly after a spouse dies, which frequently leaves women vulnerable to asset loss. To register, couples must present witnesses and evidence of customary practices, such as marriage ceremonies or lobola negotiations.

Department spokesperson Ndileka Cola appealed to qualifying couples to register without delay to avoid long queues as the deadline approaches. Despite the August 31 target, the department indicated it will not categorically refuse applications submitted after the period has ended.