Form DHA-85 — Application for Alteration of Forename(s)
If the link above does not open: Visit dha.gov.za and search for DHA-85. Also referred to as BI-85.
What Is Form DHA-85?
Form DHA-85 — also called BI-85 — is the Department of Home Affairs application form for an adult who wants to change or alter their forename (first name or any given name). It is used for adults 18 years and older.
For surname changes, use Form DHA-196 instead. For name changes for children under 18, speak to a DHA official about the applicable process for minors. For gender marker changes that include a name change, you may also need to submit Form DHA-85 alongside Form DHA-526.
When Do You Need Form DHA-85?
You need Form DHA-85 when you are an adult wanting to:
- Change your first name to a different name
- Add or remove a middle name
- Correct the spelling of a forename if it was recorded incorrectly
- Change your forename as part of a gender transition process (submitted alongside DHA-526)
- Alter forenames after adoption or legal proceedings
How to Complete Form DHA-85
Complete in black ink, block letters. Do not use correction fluid.
Current forename(s): Write your full name exactly as it currently appears on your South African identity document, including all forenames and initials.
Forename(s) you wish to assume: Write the new forename(s) exactly as you want them to appear. Be precise — the name recorded here is what will appear on your updated ID and birth certificate.
Reason for change: State why you are changing your forename. Common reasons include personal preference, religious or cultural change, correction of a recording error, or gender transition. A brief written explanation is sufficient.
Declaration: Sign in the presence of the DHA official receiving your application.
Documents to Bring With Your DHA-85
- Completed Form DHA-85
- Original South African ID (Smart ID card or green ID book)
- Certified copy of your ID
- Original birth certificate (if available)
- Certified copy of your birth certificate
For corrections (DHA recorded the wrong name):
- Evidence showing the correct name — for example, a hospital birth record, baptism certificate, or school records showing the name as it should appear
- A supporting affidavit if no documentary evidence exists
For gender transition name changes:
- Submit alongside completed Form DHA-526 (gender marker change)
- Refer to the gender marker change guide for the full document list
Fees (2026)
| Application type | Fee |
|---|---|
| Forename alteration — adult | R75 |
What Happens After DHA-85 Is Approved?
Once DHA processes the forename change:
- Your birth certificate is updated with the new forename
- Your existing ID is cancelled and a new Smart ID is issued in the new name
- You receive an SMS when your new ID is ready for collection
You will then need to separately update your forename on other documents: driver’s licence, SARS, bank accounts, passport, UIF, and medical aid. DHA only updates your national population register records.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I change my first name to anything? Within reason. DHA may decline applications where the proposed name is offensive, identical to a living person’s well-known name, or otherwise problematic under the Births, Marriages and Deaths Registration Act. In practice, most reasonable forename change applications are approved.
How many times can I change my forename? There is no formal limit, but repeated changes are scrutinised more carefully and may require additional motivation. Changing your name frequently to evade identification is not permitted.
Can I change my forename and surname at the same time? Yes. Submit Form DHA-85 (forename change) and Form DHA-196 (surname change) together at the same appointment. Both changes will be processed together and only one new ID will be issued.
Does a forename change update my passport automatically? No. After your new ID is issued, you must apply for a new passport using Form DHA-73. Your old passport remains valid until it expires, but it will carry your old name — which may cause confusion at border control.
Related Forms
- Form DHA-196 — Surname Change (Adults) — for changing your surname
- Form DHA-193 — Surname Change (Minors) — for changing a child’s surname
- Form DHA-526 — Gender Marker Change — submitted alongside DHA-85 for gender transition name changes
Related Guides
- How to Change Your Name at Home Affairs
- Gender Marker and Name Change South Africa
- All DHA Forms — Complete Hub