Detailed information about the birth certificate
To apply for an international birth certificate (multilingual birth certificate), proceed as follows:
1. Determine the responsible registry office:
The international birth certificate is issued by the registry office of your place of birth. For example, if you were born in Berlin, the relevant registry office in Berlin is responsible.
2. Application:
You can apply for the certificate in person, in writing or online.
In person: Visit the relevant registry office during opening hours. Bring a valid ID card or passport.
In writing: Send an informal application with your personal details (name, date of birth, place of birth) and a copy of your ID to the registry office. Enclose a check or a direct debit authorization for the fees.
Online: Many registry offices offer online forms. For example, in Berlin you can apply for the certificate online:
Service Berlin
3. Required documents:
Valid identity card or passport.
For written applications: copy of identification document.
4. Fees:
The costs vary depending on the federal state and registry office. In Berlin the fees are:
12.00 euros for the first certificate.
6.00 euros for each additional certificate of the same type if requested at the same time.
Service Berlin
5. Processing time:
The processing time can vary depending on the registry office. As a rule, you should expect a processing time of up to two weeks.
6. Collection or shipping:
Collection: You can collect the certificate in person. Please bring your ID with you.
Shipping: If you apply in writing or online, the certificate will usually be sent by post to the address provided.
Please note that fees and processing times may vary depending on the registry office. It is therefore advisable to check the website of the relevant registry office in advance.
7. Applying for the Apostille:
Competent authority: The apostille is issued by the state authority of the federal state in which the birth certificate was issued. In Berlin, this is the State Office for Civil and Regulatory Affairs.
Application:
In person: Visit the relevant authority with the original birth certificate.
In writing: Send the original birth certificate together with an informal application and a stamped envelope to the authority.
Fees: The cost for the apostille is usually 25.00 euros per document.
Processing time: The processing time can vary depending on the authority. In Berlin it is usually 2 to 4 working days plus postal delivery time.
Example: