Birth Certificate Request
/ What is this form?
The Geburtsurkunde (birth certificate) is issued by the Standesamt (civil registry office) of the municipality where the birth took place. It is a fundamental document required for Kindergeld applications, passport applications, school enrollment, marriage certificates, and many other official purposes.
Copies can be ordered at any time — the Standesamt keeps records permanently. Requests can usually be made by post, online, or in person. You typically receive the certificate within 1–2 weeks.
For use in other countries, a certified translation or an Apostille (official authentication stamp) may be required.
/ Who needs this form?
/ What you need before you start
/ Step-by-step guide
/ Key fields explained
| Field | What to enter | Common mistake |
|---|---|---|
| Standesamt der Geburt | The name of the city or municipality where the birth took place and was registered. | Contacting the Standesamt of your current city of residence instead of the city where you were born. |
/ Common mistakes to avoid
/ Frequently asked questions
Many Standesämter accept online or postal requests. Check the website of the Standesamt of your birth city. Large cities like Berlin and Munich have dedicated online portals.