Form DHA-193 — Application for Alteration of Surname of a Minor
If the link above does not open: Visit dha.gov.za and search for DHA-193. Also referred to as BI-193.
What Is Form DHA-193?
Form DHA-193 — also referred to as BI-193 — is the official Department of Home Affairs application form for changing the surname of a minor (a person under 18 years of age).
For adult surname changes (18 and older), use Form DHA-196 instead. For forename changes, use Form DHA-85.
When Do You Need Form DHA-193?
You need Form DHA-193 to change a child’s surname when:
- A parent remarries and wants the child to take the stepfather’s or stepmother’s surname
- Following adoption, the child is to take the adoptive parents’ surname
- After divorce, a parent wants the child’s surname changed
- A court order specifies a change of surname for a child
- Other circumstances requiring formal surname alteration for a minor
Key Requirements
Both parents must consent to a surname change for a minor, except where:
- A court order grants one parent sole guardianship
- One parent is deceased (death certificate required)
- A court order specifically authorises the surname change without the other parent’s consent
DHA will not process a minor’s surname change if there is a dispute between parents about the change, or if one parent’s consent cannot be demonstrated.
How to Complete Form DHA-193
Complete in black ink, block letters.
Child’s details: The child’s full current name, ID number (if one has been assigned), and date of birth.
New surname: The surname the child is to assume.
Reason for change: The circumstances of the change — adoption, remarriage, court order, or other.
Parent or guardian details: Both parents’ or guardians’ full names and ID numbers.
Consent: Both parents or guardians sign the form to confirm consent. If only one parent is signing, attach the court order or death certificate explaining why.
Documents to Bring With Your DHA-193
- Completed Form DHA-193 (signed by both parents or guardians)
- Child’s original birth certificate and certified copy
- Both parents’ original South African IDs and certified copies
- If applicable: adoption order (original and certified copy)
- If applicable: marriage certificate showing the new surname (original and certified copy)
- If applicable: death certificate of deceased parent
- If applicable: court order granting sole guardianship or authorising the name change
- Prescribed fee
Fees (2026)
| Application | Fee |
|---|---|
| Minor surname change | R75 |
After the Surname Is Changed
Once DHA processes the surname change, the child’s birth certificate is reissued with the new surname. If the child already holds a Smart ID (applicable from age 16), a new ID is also issued. The child’s passport does not update automatically — a new passport application (Form DHA-73) is required.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can a single mother change her child’s surname without the father’s consent? Only if: the father’s details are not recorded on the birth certificate, a court order grants sole guardianship, or the father is deceased. If the father is listed on the birth certificate and has not been excluded by a court order, his consent is required.
Does the child need to be present? Generally no — the parent or guardian completes and submits the form. For older children (particularly those approaching 18), some officials may ask whether the child has been consulted, but it is not a formal requirement.
Related Forms
- Form DHA-196 — Surname Change (Adults)
- Form DHA-85 — Forename Change
- Form DHA-59 — Amendment of Birth Registration Out of Wedlock
Related Guides
- How to Change a Minor’s Name at Home Affairs
- How to Change Your Name at Home Affairs
- All DHA Forms — Complete Hub