Birth declaration

What is it?

Congratulations on the birth of your child. To make this official announcement, you declare the birth within 3 days. You do this in the municipality where your child was born. This is required by law.

How does it work?

The mother, father or duo mother reports the birth.

If they cannot do this, one of the following can do it for them:

  • any person who was present at the birth
  • In the case of a home birth: a co-resident of the home
  • in the case of a hospital delivery: the head of the hospital or an employee authorized by the head

If this too is not possible, the declaration will be made by or on behalf of the mayor of the municipality where your child was born.

Birth certificate

The municipality prepares a birth certificate after the declaration. The birth certificate contains your child's first name or first names and last name. It also contains the parents' names, date, time and place of birth. If you wish, you can purchase a copy of the birth certificate on the spot.

What to do.

  • Report to the municipality where your child was born. Do this within 3 days.
  • You cannot file a declaration on Saturday, Sunday or a national holiday. In that case, you will have 1 additional business day.
  • Do you press charges later? Then the registrar will report this to the Public Prosecutor's Office. You may be fined.

What do I need?

  • valid proof of identity of the person making the declaration
  • valid ID of the mother
  • statement from the doctor or midwife (if you have one)
  • marriage certificate (not required)
  • certificate of recognition of unborn child (if you have one)
  • deed of choice of name (if you have one)

Child born in lesbian relationship

The mother and duo mother who are married or in a registered partnership bring a statement from the Foundation for Donor Data on Artificial Fertilization if the donor is anonymous.