Printout from the birth register

Applying in person

• Go to the registry office where the birth was registered.
• You must present your identity card or passport to prove your identity.
• You usually pay the fee when you apply at the registry office.

In addition to yourself, a person you trust may also order and collect the certificate on your behalf. In addition to a written power of attorney, they must present your identity card or passport (original or certified copy) and their own identity card or passport.

Application by post or fax

• Send an informal letter to the relevant registry office requesting a certified printout from the register of births.
• Your letter should contain the following information:
  • Surname, first name,
  • Date and place of birth,
  • Surname, first name of parents,
  • if known: Registry office and notarization number.
• Enclose a certified copy of your identity card or passport with the letter.

You will receive a notification of fees when the certificate is sent to you.

Depending on the services offered by the city or municipality, you can also submit the application online.

As a rule, please contact the registry office that keeps the birth register with your birth entry.

Registry office of the place of birth

The personal data in the civil status register is subject to data protection. Authorized applicants (minimum age: 16 years) are

• the person to whom the entry relates,
• spouses or civil partners (within the meaning of the Registered Civil Partnership Act),
• ancestors and descendants of the person concerned (e.g. children and grandchildren),
• Siblings with a legitimate interest.

Other persons, including close relatives such as aunts and uncles, will only receive a certificate if they can credibly demonstrate a legal interest (examples: Letter from the probate court, court judgment or enforceable title).

To apply for a certified printout from the register of births, you will need

• Your identity card or passport
• if applying or collecting by proxy: written power of attorney and the identity card or passport (original or certified copy) of the applicant as well as the identity card or passport of the proxy in the original or as a certified copy
• for other persons, proof of their legal interest, if applicable

• § Section 55 (1) no. 41 of the Civil Status Act (PStG)
• § Section 62 of the Civil Status Act (PStG)
• No. 16.6.1 State Ordinance on Fees for General and Internal Administration including Police Administration (Special Fee Schedule)

The certified printout from the register of births replaces the former certificate of descent (abolished on 01.01.2009).

17.03.2023