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How do I apply for a birth certificate for my Canadian-born child?

You must fill out an application and submit it online or by mail.

A birth certificate is a legal document that establishes identity. It can be used as a piece of identification when you register your child for health services, a passport, or some other services.

Only children born in Ontario can get an Ontario birth certificate. If your child was born in Canada but not in Ontario, contact the Vital Statistics Office in the province or territory where your child was born.

How do I apply online?

The Newborn Registration Service lets you register your newborn's birth, apply for their birth certificate and their Social Insurance Number (SIN) at the same time. However, you cannot use this service if your child is older than 1 year.

How do I apply by mail?

You must register the birth of your child before you can apply for a birth certificate.

Register the Birth

Fill out and sign the Statement of Live Birth form that you get from the hospital or midwife when you give birth. Mail it to the municipality where you live. The address is on the form.

It can take up to 4 months to process your application. You will receive a Notice of Birth Registration in the mail.

If you must travel before your child's birth has been registered, visit the Ontario government website for information on what to do in this case.

Apply for the Birth Certificate

Once you have the Notice of Birth Registration, you can apply for your child's birth certificate at any time. Fill out and sign the Request for Birth Certificate form, and mail it with the required fee to the Office of the Registrar General.

You can also apply for a birth certificate online.

Visit the Ontario government website for detailed information about who can apply, the cost to apply and how long it will take.

For more information about your situation, contact the Office of the Registrar General at 1-800-461-2156.

Many community agencies can help you apply for a birth certificate. To find help in your area, go to Services Near Me and search for "settlement services" in your area.

Is my child a Canadian citizen?

Yes, if your child was born in Canada they are most likely a Canadian citizen.

For More Information

• Birth Certificates - Information about getting a birth certificate. From Service Ontario.
• Types of Birth Certificates - Information about the 2 different types of birth certificates you can get. From the Ontario Government.