Re-registering a birth

What is re-registration?

Re-registration means making a new record in the birth register. 
 
There are two reasons that a birth may need re-registering:

• If you have married the other parent of your child since the birth (even if the natural father's details were originally entered in the birth register). In this case, re-registration is a legal requirement. The new entry will show the new status of both you and your child
• For children born outside their parents' marriage, a new birth record can be made to add the natural father's name and details

How do I re-register?

Re-registration forms can be obtained from any Register Office in England or Wales.

For re-registering a birth after marriage you should apply using Form-LA1.

For re-registering a birth to include natural father's details you should apply using Form-GRO 185.

Once completed the form should be returned to the Register Office.  Most re-registrations can be authorised in the Register Office. Some applications have to be referred to the Registrar General for consideration.  If it is difficult to attend the Register Office in the district where the birth occurred, it is possible to re-register at another Register Office by declaration.

How does the declaration process work?

To register by declaration you need to attend the register office by securing an appointment through the call centre on 020 7525 7651 and attend with the following.

• Full birth certificate especially if your child was born out of Southwark
• Completed and appropriate re-registration form
• Postal order or cheques made payable to the receiving borough for copies of certificates

Once the declaration has been submitted to the registrar it will be sent by recorded delivery to the register office responsible for completing the registration and any requested certificates will be sent to you by post.

How much does it cost?

There is no charge for re-registration, but you may wish to obtain a birth certificate from the new entry. The normal certificate fee applies.

Please download the document availible to the right hand side of this page under downloads for details of the new Registration fees. 

For further details please contact us on 020 7525 7651.