If a German citizen was born abroad, it is possible to apply for the creation of a German birth register retrospectively.

There is no general obligation for certification. A proper foreign birth certificate also proves the fact of birth. However, in some cases (especially after naturalization, paternity recognition or adoption), the child's name or parentage is different from the point of view of German law than documented in the foreign register. In these cases in particular, a subsequent certification in Germany is helpful.

The parents of the child, the child itself and its spouse or children are entitled to apply.

The registry office in whose district the child or the person making the application is resident is usually responsible. If none of the parties involved are resident in Germany, special regulations apply, which you can enquire about at the registry office.