Record Search

What is a record search?

A record search is generally what someone does to find out if an event has taken place in Alberta. There are no eligibility requirements to request a search of an event. A search letter only confirms that according to the Alberta Vital Statistics office an event is or is not recorded, no actual information is provided or confirmed.

Searches are conducted by the year of the event and the name of the person whose record is being searched. It is up to the applicant to provide the time period they request the records to be searched for.

Who can apply for a record search?

There is no eligibility requirement to request a search of an Alberta birth, marriage, death or stillbirth record. However, if a record is found and further confirmation of information is required, the person applying for a certificate/document must show they are eligible (pdf). 

What kind of documents are available to order?

Alberta Vital Statistics will produce a search letter that confirms whether a record was found within the dates specified on your request. A common search letter will be brief indicating that Alberta Vital Statistics does or does not have a record of the event for the time period searched. 

What kind of information is required on an application?

The more information provided the better the chance of locating a record. If the exact date of an event is unknown, give a range of dates to search as all Vital Statistics events are filed in chronological order. When the exact date of an event is unknown, it is important to at least provide the year. Searches will include the year before and the year after a given date.

How can I obtain an application?

Alberta Residents - you may print the Application for Certificate/Documents (pdf) 

Non-Alberta Residents - you may print the Application for certificate/documents (pdf)

How do I submit an application?

Alberta Residents must apply through a Registry Agent, either in person or in writing. 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
Yellow Pages: under Licensing and Registry Services

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

How much do certificates/documents cost?

In addition to the government 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/documents
  • Marriage Licenses
  • Legal Change of Name Procedure
  • Genealogical Searches and Search Letters

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

  • Certificates/documents
  • Genealogical Searches and Search Letters

How long does it take to process an application?

Once a registry agent or the Vital Statistics office receives an application, it is usually processed within two to three working days.

How will the certificate/document be delivered?

Documents are mailed to the address of the person who is making the application. It is advisable to contact a Registry Agent or  Registry Connect for special arrangements and/or rush services options.

Note: Documents will not be returned C.O.D.