Births - Questions and Answers
Do I need to make an appointment to register a birth?
Yes you do. Appointments are Monday to Friday 9.30 am to 11.30 am and 1.45 pm to 3.45 pm. Please contact your local Registrar to make an appointment.
Can I use any surname for my child?
Yes as long as it is not used for fraudulent purposes or objectionable
Can my child's name be recorded showing grammatical accents?
Yes
How much does it cost to register a birth?
This Service is free of charge
How much does it cost to change a name on a birth certificate?
The cost is £40.00
How can I add the name of the father to my child's birth certificate?
This can be quite complex and you should contact the Registrar's office for guidance
We were not married when our baby was born but we are now. Can our baby's birth entry be amended?
Yes you can as long as the birth was registered in Scotland detailed advice can be obtained from any Registrar's office in Scotland or by link to National Records of Scotland.
When I register a birth, what names can I give him/her?
Any name as long as it is not objectionable
If I am not married to the father can I put his name on the birth certificate without him being present?
Yes , a Statutory Declaration before a local councillor or notary public may be made by either parent to enable the birth to be registered on the information of one parent alone. These forms are available from any Registration office and must be completed prior to registration
I know I have 21 days to register my baby's birth, what happens if I cannot attend within this timeframe?
You will be issued with a First Reminder requiring you to attend