There are several good reasons for having a copy of your birth certificate around the house. Birth certificates are necessary when applying for a passport, government benefits and services. Although it is an important document useful for establishing your identity, it is also easy to lose. Citizens of Trinidad can obtain a copy of a computerized birth certificate.

Assemble your documents. To obtain a birth certificate, you need a photocopy of a valid, government-issued ID, such as a drivers license or a passport. If you are applying on behalf of another person who is not your child, you need to provide a photocopy of his or her ID and a letter of authorization. Note that while your first printed birth certificate is free, additional birth certificates cost TT$25 each.

Download and fill out a birth certificate application. The first section asks you to provide your address, telephone number and whether or not you are applying for your own birth certificate. The second section asks you to provide the birth certificate information as it was registered. This includes a first name, middle names, sex, date of birth, place of birth, mother's current and maiden name and father's name. Sign and date the application.

Obtain a copy of your birth certificate in person. Apply at the Registrar General's Department Head Office in Port of Spain, at any of its sub-offices or at an authorized TTPost outlet. All relevant addresses are listed on the application form. Same day service is available at the Head Office and at the San Fernando sub-office.

Obtain a copy of your birth certificate through the mail. If you choose this option, you will also need to provide a copy of your handwritten certificate. Place all of your application materials into an envelope and address it to “Registrar General's Department, Ministry of Legal Affairs.” Mail it to directly to the Registrar General's Department Head Office in Port of Spain, deposited into a drop box there or at any of its sub-offices, or at an authorized TTPost outlet. All relevant addresses are listed on the application form.

Tip

  • It is possible to apply for a Trinidad birth certificate if you live abroad. Obtain and fill out a letter of authorization and application form from your nearest consulate or its website. Either mail it or turn it into the consulate in person. Note that processing times will be slow. You can obtain a birth certificate much more quickly if you have a family member in Trinidad apply for one on your behalf.

About the Author

Sophie Levant is a freelance writer based in Michigan. Having attended Michigan State University, her interests include history classical music, travel, and the German language. Her work has been published at eHow and Travels.

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