Home Affairs eases rules for Muslim marriage officers

Home Affairs eases rules for Muslim marriage officers
Nokuthula Khanyile
Thu, 03/19/2026 - 12:36




























JOHANNESBURG - The Department of Home Affairs has scrapped the requirement for Muslim Marriage Officers to renew their certification every five years.
The change brings them in line with other religious marriage officers, under the Marriage Act of 1961.

After delivering marriage certificates recognising Muslim marriages in 2024, Home Affairs has removed the unjustified requirement for Muslim Marriage Officers to renew certification every 5 years - creating equality with other faith communities that aren’t required to renew 🇿🇦 pic.twitter.com/582GryrVJv
— Leon Schreiber (@Leon_Schreib) March 19, 2026

The department said the previous renewal rule unfairly singled out Muslim officers. It said the move affirms equal treatment and dignity for all religious communities.
“This brings recognition in line with other faith communities, which are also certified for an unlimited period without the need for administratively burdensome renewals.”