Recognition of paternity without a declaration of custody with a birth certificate already issued for the child
If you are the father of a child and are not married to the child's mother, you can recognise paternity.
The child's mother must always consent to an acknowledgement of paternity. If the father or mother is not yet of legal age, the legal representatives must also give their consent. If the child was born during divorce proceedings, the mother's husband must also give his consent.
Prerequisites
- The acknowledgement of paternity and all declarations of consent must be officially notarised.
- You can contact the following offices for this purpose:
- The registry office (free of charge). Please submit documents via the contact form of the registry office to obtain advice.
- the Youth Welfare Office (free of charge). Please submit documents via the contact form of the Youth Welfare Office to arrange an appointment.
- a notary (subject to a fee)
- If the recognition is legally effective, the child's birth register will be amended and a new birth certificate issued with the father's name.
- The parents can recognise paternity and make the declaration of consent together or separately. However, the acknowledgement of paternity only becomes effective once all the necessary consents have been given.
Required documents
For the declaration of recognition of the father
- Birth certificate of the father
For the mother's declaration of consent
- If the parents do not appear together: notarised copy of the father's declaration of recognition
For the declaration of consent of legal representatives of a minor parent or guardian of the child:
- notarised copy of the declaration to which consent is given
- Proof of status as legal representative
For the consent of the mother's (divorced) husband
- notarised copy of the declaration to which consent is given
Additionally:
- Identity card, passport or travel document of the person making the declaration
- Birth certificate of the child
- for foreign language documents: Translation by a sworn translator based in Germany
- Further documents may be required in individual cases
Please send us the required documents or call us to enquire about the documents required for your individual case and to arrange an appointment for an interview.
Legal basis
§ Section 1592 of the German Civil Code (paternity)
§§ Sections 1594, 1598 of the Civil Code (Recognition of paternity)
§ Section 44 of the Civil Status Act (declarations recognising paternity and maternity)