How to register a birth

What to do

If you have any difficulties with English please let us know so we can arrange an interpreter for you. If you know someone who is willing to interpret for you please bring them with you. Registration is a legal process so it is important you understand what is required. You must register the birth personally and cannot ask a relative or friend to attend instead.

Is there a time limit to register?

Your baby’s birth must be registered within 42 days. Please do not leave it to the last minute.

Where can I register the birth?

You should register the birth in the registration district where it took place. If you have any queries please contact the Register Office for further advice.

Can the baby’s father register the birth on his own?

He can if you were married at the time of the birth. If you were not married he cannot register on his own and his details cannot be entered unless he attends with you. The Register Office will be happy to advise you further.

What information do I have to supply for the registration?

You will be asked for the following information:

Baby

• Date and place of your baby’s birth. For twins, triplets etc. you
• must give the time of each baby’s birth
• Sex of baby
• Forename(s) and surname

Father (if details entered)

• Forename(s) and surname
• Date and place of birth
• Occupation at the time of the birth, or details of last occupation

Mother

• Forename(s) and surname
• Maiden name if married or previously married
• Date and place of birth
• Usual home address at the date of the birth
• Occupation or details of last occupation
• Date of marriage to the father if married at the time of the birth
• Number of previous children

Please check the information carefully as it is very difficult to make changes after you have signed the register.

What certificates will I get?

After the registration you will get a birth certificate free of charge. This shows your child’s name, surname, sex, date of birth and district of registration. You can buy full birth certificates showing the full copy of the entry in the Register. There is a fee for these certificates.

A birth certificate is a legal record, which is very difficult to correct at a later date.