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Registering Your Baby

Register your baby’s birth and find out what you need to bring, where to go, and how to get your baby’s birth certificate.

Registering Your Baby’s Birth in Ireland

  • Register within 3 months of your baby’s birth, it’s a legal requirement.
  • Registration is free, a standard birth certificate costs €20.
  • You’ll need a birth certificate for school enrolment, passports, and more.
  • Child Benefit is triggered automatically once birth is registered.
  • Dublin, Wicklow, and Kildare offices are appointment only; some other offices offer walk-ins.

A Guide to Registering Your Baby’s Birth in Ireland

Registration is a legal requirement in Ireland. You must register the birth of your child within 3 months. You will need a birth certificate to enrol your child in school, to apply for a passport, and for many other purposes. For Child Benefit, you will be contacted automatically once you register the birth.

How To Register

  1. Download, print, and complete the Birth Registration Application form (PDF) from Register a Birth – HSE.ie↗.
  2. Make an appointment with a Civil Registration Service office and bring your completed form.
  3. Bring accurate information, it is difficult to change details after initial registration.

Appointments

All birth registrations are strictly by appointment in the Dublin, Wicklow, and Kildare offices. Some offices outside these areas may offer walk-in appointments. You can book by phone and, in some cases online, see Register a Birth – HSE.ie↗ for full details.

Register Online

Some parents will be invited to register their baby’s birth online via MyWelfare.ie↗ using a verified MyGovID account.

Fees

There is no fee for registration of a birth. A full standard certificate cost it €20

Supporting Resources

Download our breastfeeding guides and resources to help support you on your breastfeeding journey.

Useful Links

Find further information and support from trusted organisations.

Register a Birth – HSE.ie↗ – full guidance, office finder, and appointment booking

MyWelfare.ie↗ – online registration via MyGovID (eligible parents from August 2024)