BerlinBeginnings Newborn Birth Registration
🕘Last updated on February 04, 2024 ‐ 5 min read
Welcome Your Little One to Berlin: A Guide to Newborn Birth Registration
Congratulations on your new arrival! Welcoming a child is a joyous occasion, and now it's time to officially register them with the German authorities. This comprehensive guide provides a step-by-step walkthrough of newborn birth registration in Berlin, including requirements, documents needed, and where to register.
Who can register the birth?
Both parents, or the single parent with sole custody, can register the birth. If parents are unmarried, both need to be present for the registration.
Where to register?
Standesamt: You must register your newborn at the Standesamt (civil registry office) in the district where the birth occurred. Find your local Standesamt here: https://www.berlin.de/standesamt/.
Current Situation: Due to the current situation, booking appointments is not possible. You can submit documents by:
- Post: Send all required documents as registered mail.
- Birth Registration Mailbox: Locate the dedicated mailbox at your local Standesamt.
ℹ️Important Note: Each Standesamt may have slight variations in their procedures. In certain cases, hospitals may directly submit documents to the relevant Standesamt after you provide them.
Documents required
1. Birth certificate of baby:
- If provided by the hospital, submit the original and a copy.
2. Parents' passports(Proof of Identity):
- Submit clear color copies.
3. Parents current resident permits:
- From the immigration authority
4. Parents Marriage certificate:
- Provide the original and a copy with a certified German translation.
5. Parents Birth Certificates:
- Include the originals and copies with certified German translations.
6. Proof of address:
- This can be your Anmeldung (registration certificate).
7. Duly filled forms
- Complete forms provided by the hospital regarding birth registration.
8. Form - Provision for Naming the Child:
- Complete this form to ensure your child's name adheres to your cultural naming traditions. If you are unsure, consult the Standesamt.
Form - Provision for naming the child
You must submit the original copies of all documents required to register your child at the Standesamt. The only exception are your identification documents, such as your passport or resident permit. For these, you can submit a color copy.
ℹ️Please note that foreign language certificates, including marriage certificates and birth certificates, may require official translations into German. Consider hiring a certified translator to ensure accuracy and validity.
Need documents translated into German? This guide offers helpful tips and resources.
ℹ️Please note: If you have changed your name through marriage, the Standesamt requires proof of this change. Please provide the necessary documentation during your application.
- Have you changed your passport after marriage? If so, the Embassy of India in Berlin can help you obtain a name change certificate.
- Matching names across documents (passport, birth certificate, marriage certificate) is crucial. Discrepancies may require further documents.
Additional Notes:
- Ensure all documents are complete and legible. Incomplete documents can delay registration.
- Matching names across documents (passport, birth certificate, marriage certificate) is crucial. Discrepancies may require additional documentation.
Submitting Documents:
Gather all original documents, copies, and completed forms. Place them in an envelope with your name and address clearly written on the front. Head to your local Standesamt and locate the dedicated dropbox for "Geburtsregistrierung" (Birth Registration) and drop the envelope.
ℹ️While document submission initiates the registration process, an appointment at the District registry office is sometimes necessary. You will be informed by the office if this applies to your case.
Once your child is registered
- The Standesamt will return the original submitted certificates by registered mail.
- You will receive three free birth certificates for applying for maternity/parental allowances and child benefits(Kindergeld). Submit the originals to the relevant authorities.
- Additional birth certificates cost €12 for the first one and €6 for each subsequent copy.
- Consider applying for an international birth certificate online after registration.This, you can do it online.
Resources
Berlin Official Website: https://www.berlin.de/labo/buergerdienste/standesamt-i-in-berlin/
Find your local Standesamt: https://www.berlin.de/standesamt/
Information on Newborn Registration: https://service.berlin.de/dienstleistung/318957/
Remember, this is just a guide, and the specific process might vary depending on your situation. Always refer to the official website for the latest information and requirements.
Congratulations again on your newborn!
ℹ️Frequently Asked Questions(FAQ's)
How long does the birth registration process typically take, and are there any factors that may affect the processing time?
The typical processing time for birth registration can vary depending on several factors:-Completeness of documents: Ensure all required documents are complete and accurate to avoid delays.
-Workload at the Standesamt: Processing times can be longer during peak periods.
-Need for additional information or verification: If any information requires clarification or verification, it might extend the processing time.
Generally, expect the process to take anywhere from a few weeks to several months. Contacting the Standesamt directly for an estimated timeframe in your specific case is advisable.