Tracing a Person or Address in South Africa

In South Africa, there is no system for registering one's address. Tracing persons or addresses is therefore difficult, and in cases where you do not have any information, even impossible. The German Missions in South Africa cannot assist in locating persons. South African authorities do not disclose details to third persons, not even to the German Missions.

Search options:

• You can employ a search or detective agency, although the service might be costly. Different detective agencies in South Africa can be found through the usual search engines on the internet.
  

• You can launch a personal add in a South African newspaper.
  

• You can use the White and Yellow Pages online at www.whitepages.co.za
  

Tracing a Person or Address in Germany

In Germany, everyone is required to register with his local authority after taking up residence. The address registers are, however, not public and information may only be given on valid and restricted grounds. Whether there is any information and whether it might be given to you, you should inquire at the local authorities of the last known address.

You can also search the online phone book at www.dasoertliche.de

Missing Persons

Might a German have become a missing person during his stay in South Africa? Read about emergency assistance for Germans (German language only)