How to Get a Copy of a Canadian Birth Certificate

Birth certificates are used to obtain passports, verify identify and validate genealogy. Provincial and territorial government offices have oversight for the registering of birth certificates in Canada. Copies of birth certificates are only given to certain people, so it is important that you understand the process of obtaining a copy of a Canadian birth certificate.

Instructions

Complete and Submit an Application

1. Visit the applicable provincial or territorial government Vital Statistics or British Columbia Services office (see Resources). Ask for an "Application for Birth Certificate or Registration Copy" form. You can also download an application via the agency website (see Resources).

2. Provide proof of identity. Submit a copy of a valid form of identification such as an official passport, a valid driver's license, provincial health card or a permanent resident card. Copies of birth certificates are only distributed to certain people, including the child directly after the child becomes an adult, parents of children who are younger than 19, legal custodial guardians, officers of provincial governments or the government of Canada who need the certificate in order to complete official duties, and people who satisfy the Chief Executive Officer of good faith on behalf of the person requesting the certificate. If a person is older than 19 and incapable of asking for a duplicate certificate himself, a parent may request the certificate on the person's behalf. Custodial guardians must provide a copy of guardianship papers at the time they submit the application. You can call Vital Statistics at 250-952-2681 if you have additional questions or concerns.

3. Complete the application. Provide your name, mailing address and telephone number. Submit the child's name, gender, date and city of birth. Supply the mother's and the father's names and provinces or states. Include the mother's surname on the application (see Resources). If you are requesting the copy on behalf of a child, note you relationship to the child and the reason for your request. Sign and date the bottom of the application.

4. Pay applicable fees. Call Vital Statistics at 250-952-2681 to pay your fees using a credit card. Mail your completed application to Vital Statistics Agency, P.O. Box 9657, STN PROV GOVT, Victoria BC V8W 9P3. It can take the agency 5 to 7 days to process and send you the duplicate certificate. You can also return the form in person to your local Vital Statistics office.

Resources

• Online Certification Application
• Vital Statistics Offices
• Application for Birth Certificate