How to Re-Issue Your Matric Certificate in South Africa (2025 Guide)

Re-issuing a lost, damaged, stolen, or corrected Matric certificate (Senior Certificate or NSC) is straightforward via the Department of Basic Education (DBE) or Umalusi, often online, for certificates from 1992 onward. For pre-1992, contact your Provincial Education Department.

Re-Issue Matric Certificate South Africa 2025

Table of Contents

Am I Eligible for a Re-Issue?

  • Your certificate is lost, damaged, stolen, or you need to change particulars (e.g., name correction).
  • You completed Matric in South Africa (Senior Certificate before 2008 or NSC after).
  • For pre-1992 certificates: Apply via your Provincial Education Department (PED).
  • For 1992 onward: DBE or Umalusi handles it.
  • You can also combine results from multiple sittings during re-issue.

The re-issued certificate invalidates the original, so report it as such in your affidavit.

What Documents Do I Need?

Prepare these (certified copies where noted):

  • Sworn affidavit from a police station detailing the issue (lost/damaged/stolen/change needed). It must be signed by a commissioner of oaths.
  • Certified copy of your South African ID, birth certificate, or passport.
  • If damaged: The original certificate (or remnants).
  • Previous exam results or statements (for combinations).
  • Proof of payment.
  • For name changes: Supporting docs like marriage certificate or deed poll.
  • For online: Scan in PDF or image format.

Step-by-Step Process to Apply

Apply online for convenience or in person. Expect 4-6 weeks processing (up to 3 months in peaks).

1. Online Application (Easiest for 2025)

  1. Go to www.eservices.gov.za and log in/register with your ID, email, and cell (OTP verification).
  2. Select “e-Matric e-Re-Issue” under Education.
  3. Fill the form: Personal details, exam year, reason (lost/damaged/change/combination).
  4. Upload documents (affidavit, ID, etc.).
  5. Pay online or via bank (get reference).
  6. Submit and track with your reference number.

2. In-Person Application

  1. Visit your nearest PED office or district office (e.g., in KZN: DBE offices).
  2. Download/fill the EC-45 form from the DBE site.
  3. Submit with documents and payment proof.
  4. Get a receipt for tracking.

3. For Umalusi (1992 Onward Certificates)

  1. Use www.umalusi-online.org.za.
  2. Register, select qualification, upload affidavit/ID, and choose delivery (collect/courier).
  3. Processing: 1-6 weeks.

Costs and Payment

  • Re-issue fee: R170 (April 2024-March 2025; confirm for 2025/26 as it may rise).
  • Combination: R60 extra (or included in re-issue).
  • Courier: Additional ~R100+.
  • Pay via EFT to DBE/Umalusi account (details on form/site) or online.

Tips and What to Expect

  • Track: Use reference number on portal or call office.
  • Urgent? Get a Statement of Results (R60) as interim proof.
  • Common pitfalls: Incomplete affidavits—ensure it’s detailed.
  • Help: DBE at 0800 202 933; Umalusi at 012 349 1510; provincial contacts (e.g., Western Cape: 021 467 2000).
  • If pre-1992: PED handles; 1-3 weeks.

This should resolve your issue efficiently. For more, visit www.education.gov.za or www.umalusi.org.za.