How do I find my birthparents?

If you're adopted, there are different reasons why you may want to find your birthparents.

You might want to know why you were placed for adoption or you might need some important medical information relating to your birthparents.

How do I find my birthparents?

As an adopted child, you can start a search for your biological/ birthparents if you’re 18 years or older. 

Before you start the search, we advise that you receive counselling from a social worker.

The records are kept with the Registrar of Adoptions in Pretoria. The following information is kept on record:

• The consent form.
• The adoptive parents' application.
• The social worker's report on the adoptive parents.
• The social worker's report on the birth parents (if it exists).

Biological parents can only have access to the adoption records if the adoptive parents of the child give their written consent. If they refuse, the biological parents can leave their details in the file so that they can be contacted if the adoptive parents or child change their minds.

For more information, contact the Registrar of Adoptions at the National Department of Social Development in Pretoria.

You can contact the following  people at the Registrar of Adoptions, Department of Social Development
Private Bag X901, Pretoria, 0001
 
Mr  Thembi Mathonsi
Tel: 012 312 7032
Email: Thembimat@dsd.gov.za

Ms Meggie Mazibuko
Tel: 012 312 7600
Email: MeggieM@socdev.gov.za  

Mr Letlhogonolo Mashishi
Tel: 012 312 7338
Email: LetlhongonoloMa@dsd.gov.za

Ms Nandipha Belewa
Tel: 012 312 7158
Email: NandhipaB@dsd.gov.za