THE Department of Home Affairs has announced that Muslim Marriage Officers are now recognised on the same basis as other religious marriage officers under the Marriage Act 25 of 1961.

This follows the introduction in 2024 of marriage certificates that recognised Muslim marriages for the first time.

The new directive issued by the Minister of Home Affairs, Dr Leon Schreiber, now means that Muslim religious leaders certified as Marriage Officers will no longer be required to reapply for certification every five years.

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“This brings their recognition in line with other faith communities, which are also certified for an unlimited period without the need for administratively burdensome renewals,” the department said in a statement.

According to the deparment the minister’s decision follows engagement with stakeholders on the matter.

“This decision ensures that all marriage officers, including Muslim Marriage Officers, are treated on equal terms. Coming in the wake of our implementation of marriage certificates recognising Muslim marriages for the first time in 2024, this reform re-affirms the commitment of Home Affairs under the Government of National Unity to deliver dignity for all members of our diverse South African society, including the Muslim faith community,” he said.

The Department of Home Affairs will communicate further administrative guidance to stakeholders regarding the implementation of the decision.

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