How to get a duplicate birth certificate?

There are several ways to obtain a birth certificate, depending on a person's specific circumstances. If you're interested in learning more about this procedure, the information below will be helpful. We'll also discuss the benefits of legal support from "Prikhodko & Partners" Law Firm.

Methods for obtaining a duplicate birth certificate

So, a duplicate certificate can be obtained:

• in person at the Civil Registry Office;
• through a representative at the Civil Registry Office;
• through an embassy or consulate if you are abroad.

If the applicant currently has a different surname than their birth name, they must provide a document confirming this change. If such a document was issued abroad, it must be legalized.

What should those born in the CDDLR territory do?

Those born in the occupied areas of the Donetsk and Luhansk oblasts and who received birth certificates from the so-called DPR/LPR or Russia will have to go through a court procedure in Ukraine. This applies to cases involving facts of legal significance. Therefore, a court decision must first be obtained confirming the person's birth in Ukraine. Only then will the Civil Registry Office have the right to issue a Ukrainian birth certificate.

What is an apostille and what is it for?

If a person plans to use a certificate abroad, they must apostille the document, have it translated, and have it notarized. An apostille is a special square stamp measuring 10 x 10 centimeters. It contains all the information about the document necessary for its presentation in countries that are parties to the Hague Convention.

Since Ukraine has acceded to this convention, we use this method of document verification. Before apostilling documents, check whether the country where they will be presented is also a party to the Hague Convention. If not, there is a different method of document legalization. Our migration law specialists are ready to help you understand this and provide support.

When might a birth certificate be needed abroad?

There are several situations in which a birth certificate may be necessary. Let's take a closer look at them:

1. Traveling abroad with a child. If the child is under 14 years old, a birth certificate is a mandatory document required to cross the border. Otherwise, you will not be allowed to cross the border with the child.
2. Marriage registration in another country. This depends on the specific country. Therefore, it is important to thoroughly familiarize yourself with its legislation on this matter to determine whether you need this document. Alternatively, you can contact the lawyers at our law firm, and we will answer your questions. We specialize in migration law not only in the context of national legislation but also in its international context, so we can help you clarify everything you need. For example, in France and Italy, a birth certificate is a mandatory document submitted by applicants during marriage registration.
3. Admission to an educational institution. In this case, the certificate may be required to confirm the applicant's age and personal information.
4. Visa or status registration. In many cases, a translation of the certificate is required when applying for visas.
5. Health insurance. In this situation, the document also serves as proof of identity and age.

In addition to all of the above, a birth certificate may be needed in many business or legal relationships. This extensive list makes it clear that if you've lost your birth certificate, you should replace it. Even if you don't need it now, many legal situations may arise where you might need it.

Who can obtain a duplicate birth certificate?

Current legislation provides an exhaustive list of individuals who can obtain a duplicate birth certificate. These include:

• the person himself/herself;
• the person's parents, regardless of age;
• the person's legal representative, whose authority has been duly certified.

Regarding the procedure itself, it's important to know that it's a paid service. The resulting replacement certificate has the same legal force as the one lost.

How can we help with migration law inquiries?

When our specialists work in the field of migration law, they can offer you the following categories of services:

1. competent consultation that will provide answers to all your legal questions;
2. support and representation that can significantly simplify many processes, including obtaining a duplicate birth certificate.

To order our services, please fill out the feedback form on the website.