How do I add my child's father to the birth record?

To add the father to the birth record you need to re-register the birth.

Re-registration is the completion of a new record of birth, which replaces an original registration.

A birth may be re-registered to include the details of the natural father where the parents were not married at the time of the birth, have not married since and no father's name was recorded at the time of the original registration.

• Adding father to the birth record (Form 185)

It is best to attend the Register Office where the original birth was registered. 

However, you can do this at any Register Office in England and Wales, providing the child was born in England or Wales, if it is not the Register Office who registered the birth, you will have to provide a full birth certificate for the child, dated after your marriage.

Can my child's surname be changed?

You may be able to change your child's surname. Check with your local Register Office.

To add the natural father's details where parents are not married, a form adding father to the birth record (Form GR 185) must be completed and both parents need to visit the Register Office.

However, you may attend alone if you can produce one of the following documents:

• a statutory declaration from the other parent or
• a copy of parental responsibility agreement or
• a court order

Is there a fee for re-registration?

Re-registration is free of charge.

New certificates are chargeable at £11.00 per certificate

What you need to do

• Make an appointment at the Register Office where the original birth was registered. 
• Download and complete the re-registration form
• (GRO 185) - Application by Mother/Father to re-register their child's birth to add the natural father's details (PDF) [198KB]

Remember to bring these documents to your appointment:

• your child's original birth certificate  
• both parents need to attend or bring Statutory Declaration/court order etc.

The registrar will usually be able to authorise the re-registration, otherwise it must be authorised by the Registrar General.

The registrar will be able to advise on this.

Appointment times are between the hours of 9.00am and 4.00pm, Monday to Friday.

To make an appointment please contact us on 01744 676789 

Our online appointments service is coming soon!