Affidavit of Parentage
Acknowledge under oath that you are the biological parent of a child, establishing a sworn record of parentage. Used to support birth registration or the addition of a parent's particulars with the Department of Home Affairs, maintenance court proceedings, and the exercise of parental responsibilities and rights under the Children's Act 38 of 2005.
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Download a blank PDF template to print and complete manually.
Download Blank TemplateAffidavit of Parentage Affidavit — Frequently Asked Questions
How does an unmarried father get parental rights in South Africa?
Under section 21 of the Children's Act 38 of 2005, an unmarried biological father acquires full parental responsibilities and rights automatically if he was living with the mother at the time of birth, or if he consents to be identified as the father and contributes to the child's upbringing and maintenance. A sworn affidavit of parentage is useful evidence of that acknowledgment and contribution.
Can the father's name be added to a birth certificate in South Africa?
Yes. The Department of Home Affairs can amend a birth registration to insert the father's particulars, generally with the consent of both parents and supporting documents such as sworn statements and both parents' IDs. If the mother does not consent or is unavailable, the father may need a court order or paternity proof before Home Affairs will make the amendment.
How do I make a affidavit of parentage affidavit legally valid in South Africa?
Fill in the affidavit of parentage affidavit, print it, and sign it in front of a Commissioner of Oaths — do not sign beforehand. Bring your ID document. Commissioning is free at any SAPS police station, and Commissioners of Oaths are also available at banks, post offices, and attorneys' offices.
Is this affidavit of parentage affidavit template free?
Yes. You can generate a completed affidavit of parentage affidavit PDF or download a blank printable template completely free, with no sign-up required. Your information is used only to generate the document and is not stored after the PDF is created.