1. Determine the Registrar’s Office:
- Where were you born? The registrar’s office responsible for your birth certificate depends on the location of your birth. You can find the correct registrar’s office using the government’s online tool: https://www.gov.uk/general-register-office
2. Gather Necessary Information:
- Your full name at birth: This should be the exact name as it appears on your birth certificate.
- Your parents’ names: You’ll need the full names of your parents as they appear on your birth certificate.
- Date of birth: This is the exact date you were born.
- Place of birth: This is the city, town, or hospital where you were born.
3. Obtain the Application Form:
- Download online: You can download the application form from the General Register Office (GRO) website: https://www.gov.uk/general-register-office
- Request by post: You can request the form by post from the GRO: General Register Office, PO Box 2, Southport, PR9 9AS.
4. Complete the Application Form:
- Follow the instructions carefully: Ensure you provide all the requested information accurately.
- Ask your Personal Advisor: If you get stuck get help.
- Sign the form: You’ll need to sign the application form
5. Pay the Fee:
- Check the current fee: The fee for a birth certificate varies. You can find the current fee on the GRO website.
- Pay online or by post: You can pay the fee online using a credit or debit card or by sending a cheque or postal order.
6. Submit Your Application:
- Send by post: Send your completed application form, payment, and any supporting documents to the GRO.
- Visit a registrar’s office: You may also be able to submit your application in person at a local registrar’s office.
7. Wait for Your Certificate:
- Processing time: The processing time can vary. Check the GRO website for estimated delivery times.
8. Seek Assistance if Needed
- Contact your personal advisor: If you have any questions or need help with the application process, your personal advisor can assist you.
Additional Tips:
- Plan ahead: Start your application well in advance, especially if you need to gather any missing information.
- Check for errors: Double-check your application form for accuracy.
- Keep copies: Make copies of all your documents before sending them off.
- Understand the different types of certificates: There are different types of birth certificates available, such as a long form or short form. Choose the appropriate type based on your needs.
