How to Get an ISBN in South Africa: A Step-by-Step Guide for Self-Publishers
An ISBN (International Standard Book Number) is the unique number that identifies your book in bookstores, libraries and online retailers such as Amazon. In South Africa, the National Library of South Africa (NLSA) issues ISBNs, and the application process is now handled online through the NLSA website instead of by email.
This guide explains how to apply for an ISBN in South Africa, what the NLSA ISBN request form asks for, and what happens after you submit.
Step 1: Gather the Information You Need for Your ISBN Application
Have these details ready before you open the NLSA Self-publisher ISBN Request Form so you can finish it in one go:
Country
Where you're based
ID Number
Your 13-digit South African ID (SA residents only)
Passport Number
Only if you live outside South Africa
Title of the Book
The full, final title of your book
Author Full Name
Exactly as it will appear on the cover
Address
Street, suburb, city and postal code
Author Contact
Your cell number, e.g. 0821234567
Author Email
The NLSA sends your ISBN here, so check it carefully
Format
eBook, softcover or hardcover (one format per application)
Estimated Publication Date
e.g. 2026-08-12
External Platforms
Where your book will be sold, e.g. Amazon, Takealot or your own website
Step 2: Apply for Your ISBN on the NLSA Website
Go to the official NLSA Self-publisher ISBN Request Form, fill in every required field (marked *) and click Submit Request.
One ISBN per format: important for self-publishers
The NLSA issues one ISBN per format per application. If your book will be published as an eBook, a softcover and a hardcover, you need to submit three separate applications, one for each format.
Publishing through a registered company? Use the Commercial Publisher ISBN form on the NLSA website instead.
Step 3: Receive Your ISBN and Add It to Your Book
After you submit your application, the NLSA reviews it and emails your ISBN to the address you gave. Once you have it:
Match each ISBN to the right format. Your eBook, softcover and hardcover each have their own number.
Add your ISBN to the copyright page and to the barcode on the back cover of print editions.
Keep a record of your ISBN(s). Each one is permanently linked to that edition of your book.
Need a barcode for your back cover?
Once you have your ISBN, use our free ISBN Barcode Generator to create a print-ready barcode in seconds.
Frequently Asked Questions About ISBNs in South Africa
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