Genealogical Search


What is a genealogical search?

A genealogical search allows individuals to discover more about their family history, ancestors and family tree. Vital Statistics is often used as a research resource to assist in this process.

When conducting a search through Alberta Vital Statistics it is important to understand a few facts:

  • Vital Statistics only has the records for birth, marriage, death and stillbirth registrations that occurred in Alberta and were registered in Alberta. If the event was not registered then there is no record for Vital Statistics to locate within the database system.

  • Vital Statistics has Alberta birth records dating from approximately 1850 to present and Alberta marriage and death records dating from approximately 1890 to present.

  • It is recommended that an individual requesting a genealogical search ask for a certified photocopy of a registration. This document carries the most pertinent information of any of the documents produced by Vital Statistics.

  • Alberta Vital Statistics records cannot be accessed over the Internet.

Vital Statistics records are not public. The person applying for a genealogical search must show they are eligible (pdf) to apply for someone's birth, marriage, death or stillbirth documents.

The only exceptions are:

  • After 120 years has passed anyone can apply for any birth registration

  • After 75 years has passed anyone can apply for any marriage registration

  • After 50 years has passed anyone can apply for any death or stillbirth registration

The Vital Statistics office is only one of many places through which a genealogical search may be conducted. Records may also be found through churches, the Provincial Archives of Alberta (external site), the Alberta Genealogical Society, libraries (including the Legislative Library), and various local history books.

When Vital Statistics does not have a record of the event for which you are searching for and you have documents to support its existence, you may want to register a delayed registration with the Vital Statistics office. Please contact Vital Statistics for more information about delayed registrations and the different types of documents/evidence required to complete this process.

How can I obtain an application?

Alberta Residents - Application for Ordering Birth, Stillbirth and Marriage Documents (pdf)

Alberta Residents - Application for Ordering Death and Legal Change of Name Documents (pdf)

Non-Alberta Residents - Registry Connect Application for Vital Statistics Documents (pdf)

How do I submit an application?

Alberta Residents must apply in person through the Registry Agent Network. For additional information about registry agents, please contact:

Edmonton: 780-427-7013
Other Areas (Alberta only): 310-0000, then dial 780-427-7013
Outside Alberta: 780-427-7013

Non-Alberta Residents may apply through Registry Connect (pdf).

How much do certificates/documents cost?

In addition to the government certificate fee, registry agents are authorized to charge a service fee.

Alberta Residents - must apply through a Registry Agent for the following services and payment details:

  • Certificates or Photocopies of Registration

  • Marriage Licenses

  • Legal Change of Name Certificates

  • Genealogical Searches and Search Letters

Non-Alberta Residents - contact Registry Connect (pdf) for the following services and payment details:

  • Certificates or Photocopies of Registration

  • Genealogical Searches and Search Letters

What kind of documents are available to order?

  • Photocopy of a Registration of Birth- this is a copy of the registration completed at the time of birth, usually by the mother


  • Photocopy of a Registration of Marriage- this is a copy of the registration completed at the time of the marriage, by the officiant and the bride and groom


  • Photocopy of a Registration of Death- this is a copy of the registration completed at the time of death


  • Medical Certificate of Death - this is a photocopy of the Medical Certificate of Death completed at the time of death, usually by the attending physician or medical examiners office as is appropriate


  • Photocopy of a Registration of Stillbirth - this is a copy of the registration completed at the time of birth


  • Medical Certificate of Stillbirth- this is a photocopy of the Medical Certificate of Stillbirth completed at the time of the event, usually by the attending physician