There are two situations that may result in you asking for your child's birth to be re-registered:

• 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) you are legally required to re-register the birth. The new entry will show the new status of both you and your child.

OR

• For children born outside their parents' marriage, a new birth record can be made to add the natural father's name and details.

How to 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. 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. Most re-registrations can be authorised in the Register Office. Some applications have to be referred to the Registrar General for consideration.

The 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.

For further information please contact us on 020 8430 3617 or email us - see Get in Touch for contact details and opening times.