A Spanish birth certificate is an official document issued by the Civil Registry (Registro Civil) that verifies the fact, date, time, and place of a person’s birth, as well as their paternal and maternal parentage. It’s an essential document for things like getting a DNI (Spanish ID), passport, civil marriage, or citizenship.
This guide explains how to obtain a Spanish birth certificate whether you live in Spain or are abroad, the different types available, the procedure, and the deadlines.
What It Is and What It’s For
The Spanish birth certificate is an extract or literal copy of the entry in the Civil Registry. It contains details like:
- Full name
- Date and place of birth
- Time of birth (in some cases)
- Paternal and maternal parentage
- Registration number and volume
This document is necessary for a wide range of procedures, including:
- Applying for a DNI or passport for the first time.
- Getting married.
- Adoption or parentage procedures.
- Applying for Spanish nationality.
- Pension and inheritance procedures.
Types of Birth Certificates
When you go to get your Spanish birth certificate, you can request different types depending on the use you’re going to give it:
- Literal Certificate: A complete copy of the birth entry. This is often required for official legal procedures.
- Extract: A summary of the information, which can be an ordinary, bilingual, or international (multilingual) extract.
- Negative Certificate: This certifies that a person is not registered in that Civil Registry.
How to Get a Spanish Birth Certificate in Spain
You can get a Spanish birth certificate in three main ways:
- Online (Recommended):
- Go to the Ministry of Justice’s Electronic Office.
- Select “Certificado de nacimiento” and fill out the form.
- Indicate the type of certificate and its purpose.
- You’ll receive the document at your home or be able to download it if it’s available electronically.
- In Person:
- Go to the Civil Registry where the birth was registered.
- Present your DNI and, if you’re acting on behalf of someone else, the corresponding authorisation.
- The document is usually delivered on the spot or within a few days.
- By Postal Mail:
- Send a written request to the Civil Registry with your details and the birth information.
- Provide a home address to receive the certificate.
How to Get a Spanish Birth Certificate from Abroad
If you live outside of Spain, you can request it through:
- Spanish Consulates and Embassies: by presenting the official form and your identification documents.
- The Ministry of Justice’s Electronic Office: if you have a valid digital certificate recognised in Spain.
The delivery time may be longer than within Spain, especially if it’s sent via diplomatic pouch.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can another person request my birth certificate?
Yes, with a signed authorisation and a copy of your identification document.
Is a literal certificate necessary to apply for Spanish nationality?
Yes, a literal copy is generally required for this procedure to ensure all information is included and accurate.
Does a birth certificate expire?
No, it doesn’t, but some official bodies and administrations require it to have been issued within the last 3 or 6 months to ensure the information is up-to-date.
Getting a Spanish birth certificate is a simple and free process that can be done both in Spain and from abroad. Having this updated document will allow you to complete numerous legal and administrative procedures without delay.
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