Frequently asked questions

Legally you must register your baby's birth within forty two days of the date of birth.

You will require proof of the birth for various purposes, e.g. to claim child benefit and to register your baby with a doctor.

If you are the mother or father of the baby you can register the birth. If neither of you can do so, then any of the following people can register the birth:

• A grandmother, grandfather, aunt or uncle of the baby who has knowledge of the birth;
• The occupier of the premises in which the baby was born (this includes the matron, governor, superintendent or other chief officer);
• Any person present at the birth; or
• Any person having charge of the child.

Important: In the case of a child born outside of marriage, the father's name may be recorded in the entry of birth if both parents sign the registration form together.

In maternity hospitals:

• If you are a mother in a maternity hospital you can register your baby's birth with the District Registrar, who attends on certain days of the week; or
• If the mother or the father do not wish to register the birth at that time, the baby may be registered later at the Registrar's office within forty two days of the birth.

In the Registrar's District:

This may be the District:

• Where the birth took place; or
• Where the mother normally lived.

The records provide positive information about individuals and are used for many legal and administrative purposes, e.g. National Insurance, obtaining a passport, etc.

The records also provide valuable statistics, e.g. fertility rates and population estimates. The Register General for Northern Ireland is legally required yo publish an annual report giving these statistics.

The person registering the birth, usually the mother completes a "Notice to mothers" form. The information on this form is then used by the Registrar to complete the birth registration. Some of the information collected is for statistical purposes only and is not recorded on the birth certificate.