Any birth which occurs in Scotland must be registered within 21 days. This can be done at our registration office or at any registration office in Scotland.
It is also possible to register a birth by phone if this is easier for you. This follows direction made by the Chief Registrar.
Who can register a birth?
When the parents are married or in a civil partnership, the child's mother, father or second female parent can register the birth.
If the parents are not married or in a civil partnership, the father or second female parent can only be recorded if:
- the parents sign the register together
- they sign declarations
- a court declares parentage
How to make an appointment
Please telephone our office to arrange an appointment. If you need to change or cancel your appointment please contact us as soon as possible.
What to take with you
When you go to the office to register the birth you should take these documents with you, if you have them:
- The birth registration card that was issued by the hospital or midwife showing details of the baby and information about how to register the birth
- Parents' marriage or civil partnership certificate
- Parents' birth certificate(s)
What we will give you
After the birth has been registered, we will give you the following forms free of charge:
- A form to give to the health centre to register your baby with a doctor (EC58)
- An abbreviated birth certificate
If you would like a full birth certificate, you will be able to purchase one for the statutory fee. Payments can be accepted by card only.
Parental responsibilities and rights
A child's parents are both given equal parental responsibilities and rights if both parents' names appear on the child's birth registration. These Parental Responsibilities and rights can only be removed by order of a court.
Further information can be found at Joint birth registration |Scottish Government.
Best Start Grant
The Best Start Grant is a package of 3 grants that will give money to parents and carers on low income during the early years of a child's life.
Child Benefit
Once you have registered your baby, you can apply online for child benefit.