Frequently asked questions about corrections and re-registrations

Do I have to re-register a birth?: If the natural parents' have married since the child's birth, yes you are legally required to re-register the birth. If the father’s details are currently blank, the only way to add them is by re‑registering the birth.

Why do I have to apply for a correction instead of just getting it changed there and then on the certificate?: By law, evidence must be provided to confirm the correct information before any changes can be made, to prevent fraud. A team in the General Register Office, part of His Majesty’s Passport Office, reviews the evidence and decides whether to approve or refuse the correction.

Why do I have to pay for a correction?: When the registration was completed, the person registering signed to confirm that all the details were correct. The statutory fee (set in law) associated with corrections aims to cover the costs associated with processing corrections.

Can I can ask for the correction to be carried out without us attending in person?: For most corrections to registrations, yes. You can send the completed correction application form with original supporting documents directly to the Registrar General. On the application form, select the option to confirm you are happy for the correction to be made without you being present. Unfortunately this option is not possible in a small number of instances – the General Register Office will advise you accordingly.

What evidence do I need to provide?: This will depend on what information is incorrect. Please see the guidance notes accompanying the relevant correction application forms for full guidance, or email [email protected].
Births: https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/application-form-to-correct-details-on-a-birth-registration.
Removing incorrect father from a birth registration: https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/application-form-to-remove-the-incorrect-fathers-details-from-a-birth-registration.
Deaths: https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/application-form-to-correct-details-on-a---death-registration.
Marriages: https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/application-form-to-correct-details-on-a-marriage-registration.

Who can apply for the correction?: Births: The mother and/or father.
Deaths: A relative of the deceased, someone who was present at the death, or the person who registered the death.
Marriages: The couple who were married.

What does the certificate look like when the correction has been completed?: The incorrect details will still appear on the certificate. A note will be added at the end to confirm the information has been corrected. This is the standard way corrections are made to registrations and certificates in England and Wales. It keeps a clear record of what has been changed.

Last updated: 15 May 2026