Wondering how to get removed from debt review in South Africa in 2026? You are not alone. Many people enter debt review to regain control of their finances, but once the debt is paid off, they want to restore their credit profile and access new credit again. The truth is: to exit debt review, you need a debt review clearance certificate.
If you are ready to reclaim your financial freedom and remove the debt review flag from your credit report, this guide explains the full process and how to complete it correctly.
👉 Ready to start your removal process now?
Apply for your clearance certificate here:
What Does It Mean to Be Removed from Debt Review?
When you are under debt review, your credit profile is flagged and lenders can see this when you apply for credit. Being removed from debt review means that:
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All debts listed under debt review have been fully paid
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A debt review clearance certificate has been issued
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The debt review flag has been removed from your credit report
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You can apply for credit again under normal conditions
This flag does not fall away automatically. A registered debt counsellor must legally update your status with all credit bureaus.
How to Get Removed from Debt Review in 2026
1. Settle All Debts Included in Your Debt Review
To be removed from debt review, all accounts listed in your debt review plan must be paid in full. This includes personal loans, credit cards, store cards and vehicle finance. A home loan may be excluded if it was not part of the original restructuring.
South African law does not allow voluntary withdrawal from debt review once the process has started. Full repayment is required before removal.
2. Obtain a Debt Review Clearance Certificate
A debt review clearance certificate is the official document that confirms you have successfully completed the debt review process.
Only a registered debt counsellor may issue this certificate. Once issued, the counsellor notifies all major credit bureaus to remove the debt review status from your profile.
If you cannot reach your original debt counsellor, or if your case has become inactive, a professional clearance service can assist you with the process.
3. Update Your Credit Profile
After the clearance certificate is issued:
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Credit bureaus such as TransUnion and Experian are notified
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The debt review flag is removed from your credit report
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You may begin applying for credit again
It is recommended that you check your credit report after the update to ensure the flag has been removed correctly.
How Long Does It Take to Be Removed from Debt Review?
Once all debts are settled and the required documents are submitted:
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A clearance certificate can be issued within 10 to 14 working days
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Credit bureaus usually update your status shortly after submission
Delays may occur if paid up letters are missing or if creditor confirmation is required.
Frequently Asked Questions About Debt Review Removal
Can I remove myself from debt review?
No. You cannot remove yourself from debt review without a clearance certificate. The law requires a registered debt counsellor to handle the removal process.
Is there a free way to get off debt review?
No. There is no legitimate free method to remove debt review. Any lawful removal involves professional fees. Be cautious of companies claiming to offer free debt review removal.
Can debt review be removed before all debt is paid?
In rare cases, a court application may allow early removal if you can prove you are no longer over indebted. This process is complex, costly and not commonly approved.
Why Use a Professional Clearance Service?
Removing debt review involves:
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Confirming paid up letters from all credit providers
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Issuing a legally compliant clearance certificate
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Submitting updates to all credit bureaus
Using a trusted professional helps avoid delays, errors and unnecessary stress.
👉 Apply for your clearance certificate here:
Final Thoughts
Getting removed from debt review is a major financial milestone. By following the legal process and obtaining a clearance certificate, you can rebuild your credit profile and move forward with confidence in 2026 and beyond.
If you are ready to take the next step, apply today and begin your journey towards a stronger financial future.