How to Receive Your Baby’s Birth Certificate in Germany

Being pregnant brings many questions — and one of the most important is this:
How do I register my baby’s birth, and what documents do I need for the birth certificate in Germany?

Without the birth certificate, you cannot apply for Kindergeld (child allowance) or Elterngeld (parental benefits). This guide gently walks you through the process so you can feel informed and calm.

Who Registers Your Baby’s Birth?

• Babies born in a hospital or birthing house are automatically registered by the facility at the Standesamt (registry office) of the district where the birth occurs.
• For home births, your midwife provides a form that you submit to the Standesamt in your district (Bezirk).

This registration ensures your baby’s legal identity and access to parental benefits.

Documents Needed for the Birth Certificate

The documents vary depending on your family situation:

Not married (never married):

• Mother’s birth certificate
• Father’s birth certificate
• Paternity statement and custody declaration, if applicable

Married:

• Birth certificates of both parents
• Marriage certificate

Divorced:

• Mother’s birth certificate
• Marriage certificate
• Divorce decree
• Father’s birth certificate
• Paternity statement and custody declaration, if applicable

Additional documents often requested:

• Passports
• Meldebescheinigung (residency registration card) if available
• Translations of personal documents into German (check with your registry office)

Copies of the Birth Certificate

You usually receive 3 copies free of charge:

1. For Elterngeld (parental benefits)
2. For Kindergeld (child allowance)
3. For your baby’s health insurance (Krankenkasse)

Additional copies, including international versions, are available on request.