How To Apply For Change of Name in Botswana?

Organization : Department of Civil and National Registration
Facility : Change of Name
Applicable For : All citizens of Botswana
Country : Botswana
Website : https://www.gov.bw/index.php/civil-registration/change-name

How To Apply For Change of Name in Botswana?

This service allows citizens of Botswana to change their official name, as registered in the Civil and National Registry. Changing your name in Botswana involves submitting a formal application to the Department of Civil and National Registration, supported by proof of identity (Omang), a valid reason, and relevant documentation such as marriage certificates or court orders.

Related / Similar Facility : Botswana Application For Motor Vehicle Scheme (GEMVAS)

The process often requires publishing the notice of change, and if approved, the new name is officially registered. Visit the Department of Civil and National Registration to obtain the necessary application forms for a change of name. Submit the completed application form and supporting documents to the Department of Civil and National Registration.

Steps:
In order to access this service, applicants must complete the following steps:
** Complete and submit Application for Change of Name (with relevant support documents) to the Department of Civil and National Registration.
** The application will be processed and publicised in the Government Gazette for 30 days to accommodate possible objections.
** If there are no objections, an authorisation is publicised for 14 days in the Government Gazette to inform members of the proposed change.
** If there is no objection to the authorisation, an authorisation letter is issued to the client.

Note:
Change of name due to marriage is processed same day. Change of name due to any other reason takes 69 days to complete.

Documents Required For Change of Name in Botswana

Certified copies of the following documents should accompany the application form when applying for this service.

Change of Name due to marriage:
Marriage Certificate or certificate from customary authorities in the case of a customary marriage (on the marriage of applicant’s parents).

Change of Name due to any other reasons:
** Birth Certificate or Affidavit of Birth.
** School Academic Certificates.
** Omang Card.
** Page 1 and 2 of passport.
** Any other legal documents.

Note:
The authorities may require that notice of the name change be published to allow for any objections. Once approved, the department will update your records, and you may need to apply for a new, updated passport.

Contact For Change of Name

Department of Civil and National Registration
Head Office, Block 8, Government Enclave
Khama Crescent
Private Bag 00240
Gaborone, Botswana

Toll Free Number : 0800 600 777
Opening Hours: 7:30 to 12:45, and 13:45 to 16:30, Monday to Friday, except public holidays.