How do I get a South African birth certificate from SA in less than 2 months?

[snapcracklepop 0]

Hi there,

I really really hope someone has an answer to this question!! I was born in south africa and live in Canada. For my K1 visa i have to provide an original copy of my birth certificate (long form/unabridged).

If I apply from Canda, it will take up to 6 months.

If I apply from RSA, it will take up to 8 weeks.

I found on a forum that someone's mother applied for their bc on their behalf (in SA) and asked them to expedite it and got it back in a week. Does anyone know how to do that? Or is there a company that specializes in getting these records on your behalf (quickly)? My mom tried to get it for me, and found it way too stressfull (it takes all day of standing in line, with no guarantee of getting to the front of the line before the office closes).

My last option is to ask my mom to MAIL in my request to the SA department of home affairs. I was born in Bloemfontein, but my mom lives in Cape Town. Which office should I mail my application for Birth Certificate to? CT or Bloem? Do you perhaps know the address?

Also, if i CAN request them to expedite it, how much will it cost in Rands? I have scoured the Dept of Home Affairs website and there is no expedite option on their website, or on their form (Form BI-154).

If you have ANY advice on how I can get my unabridged birth certificate in less than 2-6 months I would be so greatful.

Thank you thank you!

[Carlawarla 1]

Did you hear if they will accept alternative documentation in lieu of this BC? I don't know off hand anyone that's from there, but you might try looking at countries here and searching who's done this process with their SO from SA and send them a message or email.

[snapcracklepop 0]

Did you hear if they will accept alternative documentation in lieu of this BC? I don't know off hand anyone that's from there, but you might try looking at countries here and searching who's done this process with their SO from SA and send them a message or email.

Hi Carlawarla,

Yeah, I searched the SA portal and a fellow SA'er give me contact info on someone who might be able to help - this is such a great site, I've managed to make some great progress thanks to VJ and the internet!

This info has put it all into perspective for me: The recent unrest in SA has made everyone scramble to get their legal docs so that they can either emigrate or show proof that they're not illegal aliens (illegal workers have been the target of some really brutal attacks lately). So the Dept of Home Affairs is struggling to keep up with these doc requests.

[Carlawarla 1]

So sorry that this has been such an onerous task for you! Without knowing your financial situation, and maybe you've already thought of this...but what are the chances you could fly over, and stay with your Mom and do it yourself before flying back? VERY costly police report I know, but some people may have the financial means.

Best of luck in finding a speedy solution!

Edited August 21, 2008 by Carlawarla

[snapcracklepop 0]

So sorry that this has been such an onerous task for you! Without knowing your financial situation, and maybe you've already thought of this...but what are the chances you could fly over, and stay with your Mom and do it yourself before flying back? VERY costly police report I know, but some people may have the financial means.

Best of luck in finding a speedy solution!

Yeah I thought of that too LOL! It was starting to look like the only option but the good news now is that my mother braved the crowds again (at a different branch) and managed to submit my forms! I am now only two roadblocks away from faxing the checklist back and getting an interview date. Other good news is that i had my medical today!

I hope all is going well on your side too!

Snap