Registering the birth of a child is a relatively easy process provided you have all the correct paperwork. The only real pressure is the time factor and knowing how to register a birth in Spain. In this article, we will explain the steps you should take.
Firstly, the birth of a child in Spain must be registered at your nearest Registro Civil (Civil register office), within eight days of the child´s birth.
This time period can be extended thirty calendar days if there is a justified reason for the delay. However, it is better to stick to the time frame as a delay may lead to future problems with the Spanish authorities.
Please remember that, registering a birth in Spain with the Spanish authorities is a mandatory not an optional procedure.
Paperwork required to register the birth at the Registro Civil:
- Original and photocopy of NIE/Residency and passports of both parents
- Paperwork given by the hospital (signed by the attending matron and including all details of the birth)
- Padron Certificate from your local town hall (required by some Registros)
If the parents of the child are married, either parent can register the birth. If not married then both parents must be present when registering the birth at the Registro Civil.
The Libro de Familia is only issued or updated, based on your own personal circumstances, after a few days, so it is advisable to ask for a “Borrador de Asiento Registral” as a temporary document, if needed. The same applies to the official Spanish birth certificate “Certificación del acta de Nacimiento”
Please be advised that the registration at the British Consulate in Spain, of the birth in Spain of a British national is not compulsory. However, the Consular Services section of the British Consulate General in Madrid does offer this service.
It is also important to know that it is not necessary to register the birth in Spain of a British national to be entitled to apply for a British passport for your child.
By following these simple steps, you will now understand how to register a birth in Spain. If you have any further questions or would like to share your experiences with us, please Contact Us.
For more detailed information about registering the birth in Spain of a British national, have a look at the British embassy website here
By Lisa Sadleir
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