Re-registering a birth is possible for a children born in England or Wales. Registering the birth again will create a new record in the birth register.
Re-registering a birth is a free service. You can make an online request for a copy of the new birth certificate.
When to re-register a birth
Births must be re-registered:
- if the parents got married or formed a civil partnership after the birth, or
- to add the natural birth father's name and details to the child's birth entry, if it was not recorded on the original.
How to re-register a birth
To re-register a birth, you will need to complete one of the forms available on GOV.UK:
- print and complete the form to re-register a birth after a marriage or civil partnership between the parents
- print and complete the form to re-register a birth add the natural father's details
- take the completed form and any supporting documents, such as a marriage or civil partnership certificate, to your Register Office appointment.
After re-registering
After your appointment to re-register a birth, a new record will be made by the Register Office.