The National Archives makes archival material

available to the public. Although actual access to archival documentation is free of charge, the public is charged for the reproduction of material for further use, on either film or paper.

Publications are also sold, and the public is charged for the transfer of data by magnetic means.

The objectives of the National Archives and Records Service of South Africa are as follows:

  • to preserve public and non-public records or documents with enduring value for use by the public and the State;
  • to make such records accessible to and promote their use by the public;
  • to ensure the proper management and care of all public records;
  • to collect non-public records with enduring value of national significance, which another institution cannot more appropriately preserve;
  • to maintain national registers of non-public records with enduring value, and to promote cooperation and coordination between institutions having custody of such records;
  • and generally, to promote the preservation and use of our national archival heritage.

Tariff policy

The National Archivist determines tariffs, considering current market rates and as per Treasury Regulations.

National Film, Video and Sound Archives

The National Film, Video and Sound Archives (NFVSA) collects, preserves and provides

access to audio-visual records created by both government and private bodies or individuals.

Its aims are as follows:

  • to preserve public and non-public records or documents with enduring value for use by the public and the State;
  • to make such records accessible to and promote their use by the public;
  • to ensure the proper management and care of all public records;
  • to collect non-public records with enduring value of national significance, which another institution cannot more appropriately preserve;
  • to maintain national registers of non-public records with enduring value, and to promote cooperation and coordination between institutions having custody of such records;
  • and generally, to promote the preservation and use of our national archival heritage.

Tariff policy

 

The National Archivist determines the tariffs, considering current market rates and as per Treasury Regulations.

Copyrighted material held by the State are charged as per the above. For those held by outsiders, negotiations are entered into between the user and the copyright holder. Before the material can be transferred to the requested format, the NFVSA demands proof of an agreement between the two parties.

Bureau of Heraldry

The Bureau of Heraldry designs and registers

the heraldic representations, names, special

names and uniforms of individuals, associations and institutions. The Bureau also promotes the national symbols using mass media, workshops and activation campaigns.

Tariff policy

The State Herald determines the tariffs, in consultation with the Heraldry Council and National Archivist, considering current market rates.

Steps to follow

Request information or copies by:

  • visiting the archives repository
  • writing to the archives repository
  • faxing or e-mailing
  • searching online.

 

Legal framework

 

Service standard

It may take seven working days to locate archival material.
 

Cost

The service is free.

Forms to complete

Requisition forms are obtainable from the repository.