What to Do if You Lose Your U.K. Birth Certificate

With photo forms of I.D. such as passports and driving licenses usually asked for more often these days, many of us don’t really need to use our birth certificates that often. However, if you are applying for your first photo I.D., getting your first passport, applying for certain forms of finance, or going into a type of career where stringent identity checks are necessary before you can begin working, then you might find that your birth certificate is required. So, what can you do if you realise that you have misplaced your birth certificate and need it fast? We’ve listed the steps to take.

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Step 1: Gather Information:

Your birth certificate is the first form of I.D. that you will ever have, so it’s important to gather as much information about your identity as possible when applying for a new one. If you already have a form of photo I.D. such as a passport or driving license, then be sure to use this since this can speed up the process. In addition to your full name at birth (bear this in mind if you have since married or changed your name), you will also need to have to hand your parents’ full names and your mother’s maiden name, your date of birth and sex at birth, and the town in which you were born. If you know the town or district in which you were registered at birth, have this information to hand as well. 

Step 2: Request a Replacement:

Once you have all the information that you need, it’s time to obtain a copy birth certificate. You can do this either by applying online, or via post. In general, applying for your replacement birth certificate online is the best choice since it’s a quicker process, essential if you need to have your certificate with you in a timely manner. Bear in mind that once you have sent off your request for a replacement, additional information may be needed. Because of this, it’s a good idea to start as early as possible to give yourself plenty of time.

Special Circumstances:

In general, the process of applying for a replacement U.K. birth certificate is a quick and easy one. However, bear in mind that in some cases, special circumstances may apply. For example, if you hold dual citizenship or one or both of your parents was born in another country. If you are adopted, this information may also be necessary to complete the application process.

Applying on Behalf of Someone Else:

It is possible to apply for a replacement birth certificate on behalf of somebody else, providing that you know all the necessary information about them. Usually, you will need to be a close relative of an individual to request a copy of their birth certificate, such as a parent, child, spouse, sibling, or grandparent. You may also be required to provide I.D., and in some cases, have permission from the individual to request their birth certificate for them.

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