Correcting an error
If errors are discovered in the birth registration, you can change or add details. The form and guidance below can be printed off, completed and given to the registration office where the birth was registered.
Applications for corrections should be made by the person who registered the child, with the original register office. He or she will need to produce documentary evidence to prove an error was made at the time of registration depending on the type of mistake made.
Changing a child's forename
You can add or remove a child’s forename in the following circumstances:
- new forenames were given within 12 months of the birth being registered
- if your child has been baptised, only the baptismal names can be added to the register - the minister with custody of the baptismal register needs to confirm this with the 'Certificate of name given in Baptism' form
Please note
- you must be the mother, father or guardian of the child to make the change
- forename changes can only be made once – any further forename changes cannot be recorded
- you must comply with any court orders in force about the naming of your child
- you need to bring the signed form to the register office where the child was registered and the registration officers will arrange to amend the record and will make you an appointment if required.
Changing a child's surname
You can only change a child’s surname in their original birth record to correct a spelling mistake.
However, a child can be re-registered in the following circumstances:
- to record the natural father's details in the birth record
- following the marriage of the natural parents, if they were not married at the time of the birth
In these circumstances, you are able to change the child’s surname to the mother’s or the father’s – or a combination of the two – as long as both parents agree to the change. If the child is 16 years of age or over, his or her written consent must be obtained before the surname can be changed.
The appropriate form below needs to be completed and given to the registration office where the birth was registered, together with supporting documents if required. You will then be contacted to make an appointment to do the re-registration.