Birth registration

If you've had a baby, you must register the birth with us within 21 days. This is a legal requirement.

You can register a birth that happened in Scotland at any registration office in Scotland, not just ours.

Since 2022, you've been able to register a birth remotely over the phone, although you can still book a face-to-face appointment if you'd prefer.

If the parents are married to each other, either the mother or the father can register the birth. If the parents aren't married and you both want your names on the birth registration, you'll both need to attend the registration together.

If one parent isn't able to attend, please get in touch with us for advice. 

What you'll need to bring

• The birth card or form given to you by the hospital when your baby was born
• Your marriage certificate, if you're married and have it available

What we'll give you

• A free abbreviated birth certificate, showing your child's name, date and place of birth
• Form EC58, containing your child's NHS number, which you should pass on to your family doctor

You can also buy a full birth certificate, which shows details of parentage, for the statutory fee.