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Nova Scotia Forms
health

Birth Certificate Application

Application for Birth Certificate

Verified January 15, 2024Last updated: January 15, 2024

Timeline

Apply as needed - no deadline

Time to Complete
20-30 minutes
Cost
Fee applies (check current rates)
Processing Time
4-6 weeks

Handled by

Vital Statistics

Available

In Person Only

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Summary

Apply for a Nova Scotia birth certificate for yourself or your child.

In Plain Language:

Get an official birth certificate document.

Eligibility

You May Qualify If:

  • People born in Nova Scotia
  • Parents applying for child's certificate
  • Authorized representatives

You May NOT Qualify If:

  • People not born in Nova Scotia (must apply to province/country of birth)
  • Unauthorized third parties

Requirements Checklist:

  • □Born in Nova Scotia
  • □Photo identification
  • □Proof of relationship (if applying for someone else)
  • □Completed application
  • □Application fee

Examples:

  • • A person who needs their birth certificate for a passport application
  • • A parent applying for their child's birth certificate
  • • A newcomer who was born in Nova Scotia and needs their certificate
Common Mistakes to Avoid

⚠️ Missing information on application

Fill out all sections completely, including full names, dates, and places of birth

⚠️ Not providing proof of relationship

If applying for someone else's certificate, provide proof you're authorized to request it

⚠️ Incorrect payment

Check current fee amounts and ensure payment is correct

After You Submit

What Happens Next

  1. Your application will be reviewed
  2. Vital Statistics will verify the information
  3. Your birth certificate will be processed
  4. Your certificate will be mailed to you

Check Your Status

Check status online

What to Keep

  • • Application confirmation
  • • Receipt of payment
  • • Copy of submitted documents

Follow-Up Actions

  • □Wait for processing (4-6 weeks)
  • □Contact Vital Statistics if you don't receive your certificate within 6 weeks
  • □Keep your birth certificate in a safe place
  • □Consider ordering multiple copies if you'll need them for different purposes

Expected Timeline:

Processing takes 4-6 weeks. Your birth certificate will be mailed to your address.

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