Sworn affidavit
SAPS & firearms
An affidavit is a written statement made under oath. Use it to explain what you need to state, then read the wording before you swear. You are saying the contents are true. In South Africa, you can make an affidavit at any police station. An officer provides a standard form and help you complete the process.
Prepare your affidavit
Do not sign before the commissioner of oaths. Review your statement and sign in their presence. This PDF is not signed or certified.
Official downloads
How to use it
- Explain what the statement is for Tell the officer why you need a sworn statement and what it should explain. If someone requested it, describe what they asked you to cover. Use plain words and keep your account tied to that purpose. This gives you a clear starting point as you work through the process.
- Go to a police station You can make an affidavit at any police station. An officer there will provide a standard form. Explain the purpose of your statement when you ask for help, so you can work through the process with the officer.
- Complete the form with help Work through the form carefully and ask the officer about any wording or question you do not understand. The officer can help you complete the process. Take time to make sure the statement reflects what you mean to say before you swear to it.
- Read the statement before swearing Read the full statement and check each sentence against what you know and intend to say. A person making an affidavit swears that the contents are true. You may be prosecuted if any part of the statement is false. Ask for help with unclear wording before you swear.
Document checklist
- Clarify the purpose Before you visit a station, write a short note about what your statement needs to explain. If a person or organisation asked you for it, keep their request in mind. Tell the officer the purpose so you can work through the process with help. Keep your notes focused on the matter you need to describe.
- Outline what you want to say Use your own words to note the events or details you want to include. Keep each point connected to the purpose of the statement. A formal account of events for legal or administrative purposes is one situation where an affidavit may be needed. Leave out details that do not help explain your account.
- Mark anything you want explained If a word or question is unclear, mark it so you can ask about it while completing the form. An officer can help you complete the process at a police station. You can also check that the wording still says what you intend to swear is true before you continue.
Questions & answers
Might I need an affidavit for a lost or stolen document?
Affidavits are often required for replacing lost or stolen documents (e.g. ID, passport). If someone asks you for one, check what your statement needs to explain for that request.
Can an affidavit give consent for a child to travel?
A situation where an affidavit is often required is giving consent for a child to travel with one parent or a school group. Check what the person requesting the statement needs it to cover.
Can I use an affidavit to give an account of events?
Yes. Providing a formal account of events for legal or administrative purposes is one situation where an affidavit is often required.
Where can I find more information about affidavits?
Use the official actions link to visit the South African Police Service website for more information.
Related documents
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Sources
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